On a recent visit to Hossegor, the creative surfing hub in South West France, we did some research into environmentally focused wetsuit and surf clothing brands.
We are happy to share that there are huge steps being made, and now several alternatives to neoprene, the petroleum-based rubber that most wetsuits used to be made from, on the market.
The prices of these wetsuits are higher, this is due to the cost of the raw material, and the small production volume across the industry. The more people choose to support these brands, the lower the prices and the more available they will become.
When shopping for your new wetsuit, remember that your choice counts.
Why do we need alternatives to neoprene?
Oil-based neoprene is created by a vast amount of oil drilling and transportation, it is a non-renewable material that takes lifetimes to break down. Neoprene was originally invented to line landfill sites!
Who’s already producing alternatives to neoprene wetsuits?
Patagonia, Picture, Vissla and Finisterre are making great progress. Now working with alternatives to neoprene, using sustainable packaging, supporting Fair Trade practices, and also addressing ways to recycle old wetsuits.
Read more about the sustainable wetsuit brands here;
Patagonia
Their new line of wetsuits are made from 85% renewable Yulex rubber, the new neoprene-free line cuts CO2 emissions from normal wetsuit production by about 80%, making it potentially the most sustainable wetsuit yet. We also love that they offer the option to return your wetsuit to any Patagonia shop worldwide for repair, and that their suits are made in Fair Trade Certified sewing facilities. We tried and tested, and bought their Women’s R1 Yulex Front Zip Full Suit, and can testify it is well made, flexible, comfortable and toasty warm. Check out their latest range here.
Vissla
Their Eco Seas Wetsuit uses some of the most earth conscious materials and production techniques, including natural rubber instead of neoprene, water based glues rather than solvent based materials, and recycled plastic bottles for the interior and exterior jerseys. 45 Recycled bottles make up the material used in the jersey lining. They also offer sustainable packaging. Read more here.
Finisterre
This UK-based brand have made leaps forward. Already using a biodegradable rubber in its wetsuits, and making clothes from Econyl, a recycled nylon made from discarded fishing nets and carpet tiles. They are now addressing the, ‘What to do with a wetsuit at the end of its functional life?’ question. After 2 years research, they have launched their first wetsuit that can be totally recycled. They have also launched a ‘Buy Back’ scheme where where old suits can be traded in to be recycled, for discounts on new suits or store vouchers. Read more about this and the world’s first recycled wetsuit here.
Picture
This creative French brand has also introduced their organic clothing and eco friendly wetsuits using NaturalPrene, a 100% raw material, Aqua-A™ a solvent-free aqua glue, and recycled polyester lining and shell fabrics. Both made from recycled plastic bottles, the lining is warm and quick drying, while the shell fabric is water repellent. They are driven by strong ethical practices; including a flight-free shipping commitment, all goods are shipped by boat and in the future the plan is go by train. See their latest range here.
Something to think about when you are shopping for your new wetsuit. We hope you enjoyed this blog, if so, please share the love with your friends and family, and we would welcome any comments or feedback. Remember as consumers, we have a choice, and your choice counts.
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