Growing up surfing in cold water inspires an appreciation for quality wetsuit innovation. Thanks to Jack O’Neil and the procession of wetsuit companies and pioneers that followed him I’ve never had to think too hard about what I wear in the water. There was always an easy litmus test – if it kept me warm and I could move, it was good.
In light of a renewed sense of urgency to preserve our oceans and environment, however, it’s clear the above criteria is not enough. Most wetsuits are made from neoprene, a petroleum based product. The process of manufacturing neoprene wetsuits releases CO2 into an already impacted atmosphere, adds to our overall dependency on petroleum, and is difficult to recycle efficiently. To taper this effect, and offer a revolutionary suit a few companies are now selling neoprene-free designs.
Patagonia, for example, created a natural rubber alternative called Yulex.
As it states on their website: “Using natural rubber in place of nonrenewable, energy-intensive neoprene means up to ~80% less climate-altering CO2 is emitted in the polymer manufacturing process.” Click here to find out more about Patagonia’s suits or to shop around.
Vissla is also offering an environmentally friendly wetsuit option. By partnering with Sheico and using a product they developed called Naturalprene, Vissla designed the Eco Seas Wetsuit.
Vissla
The Eco Seas combines Naturalprene with water based glues and material made from recycled bottles for the jersey liner. Go here to learn more or shop for suits.
Matuse rolled out another neoprene-free option. Their suits use Geoprene, a material made from limestone that has good flexibility, warmth, and durability. Click this link to see more or shop around.
Beyond selecting the right low impact wetsuit, it’s a good idea to repair, reuse, and repurpose the wetsuits we do have. Most wetsuit companies, including Patagonia will repair your suit if you encounter a problem with it, or damage a panel.
There’s also the possibility of passing old wetsuits on when you’re done with them. Sell them on craigslist or check with local surf camps and/or nonprofit surf-based organizations to see if they can use them. Go further and create a wetsuit drive like Surfrider Foundation, Jersey Shore Chapter did when they partnered with Suga to upcycle them into yoga mats. Find a way to send used suits to kids in Peru or South Africa and get your local surf community involved.
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featured photo of author Jake S. from Angela Jimenez
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