Since our Jack Wolfskin 2010 Winter Collection, we have consciously refrained from using products with nanotechnology.
This decision was in response to a 2009 study by the German Federal Environment Agency, “Nanotechnology for mankind and environment”. The study primarily illustrated the opportunities and risks resulting from nanotechnology. The use of nanotechnology on textiles is, in comparison to other areas of use such as in cosmetics or food, generally considered not to pose a risk to humans. According to the study, there may be greater risks for the environment as there is a chance that the nanoparticles could separate and be released into the environment after washing.
JACK WOLFSKIN used technology from the company NANO-TEX until winter 2010. Tests conducted by the Hohenstein Institute have determined that there were no nanoparticles applied to the surface of the fibres in the NANO-TEX technology we used. The technology is based on a molecular alteration of the fibre structure, which results in improved water and dirt-repellent properties. The nanoparticles were not expected to separate, aside from normal abrasion found with all fibres.
This would seem to indicate that the technology poses no risk to humans or to the environment. Nevertheless, we have decided to refrain from using nanotechnology until further research results become available.
You can find more information here.