Not the filter.
Been running a K&N filter for almost 14k miles with lots of gravel and dusty riding. I sealed the air box well with RV Blue Silicone as well and sealed the filter (bead around it then put it in) then I let it all cure out over night.
I even run my air box with out the ram air...
Saying hello from Kansas, USA. been lurking and reading the info on here, great resource.
Several bikes, KTM, Triumph, Buell, and yamaha. Spent some time in Africa, up north but always wanted to visit SA and hope someday sooner rather than later.