What Certifications Or Standards Should Consumers Look For To Ensure Their Wetsuit Is Environmentally Friendly?
Lauren February 17th, 2025 Posted In: Articles
When shopping for a wetsuit, environmentally conscious consumers want to make sure their gear isn’t harming the planet. But with so many marketing claims floating around, how do you know if a wetsuit is truly eco-friendly? The answer lies in certifications and standards that verify sustainable practices.
When browsing for an environmentally friendly wetsuit, look for certifications such as Bluesign®, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), Fair Trade, and Oeko-Tex®, along with sustainable materials like Yulex® natural rubber and recycled polyester. These standards ensure that your wetsuit is made with less environmental impact, safer chemicals, and ethical labor practices. Let’s dig in to what makes a wetsuit truly sustainable and how you can make the best eco-friendly choice!
What Makes a Wetsuit Environmentally Friendly?
Traditional wetsuits are made from neoprene, a synthetic rubber derived from petroleum or limestone. While limestone-based neoprene is often marketed as a “greener” alternative, it still has a significant environmental impact. To truly be classified as an environmentally friendly wetsuit, a product should prioritize sustainable materials, ethical production, and certifications that verify its eco-credentials.
Some key features of sustainable wetsuits include:
- Natural Rubber Alternatives: Brands like Patagonia and Vissla use Yulex®, a plant-based natural rubber that significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to neoprene.
- Recycled Materials: Many eco-friendly wetsuits incorporate recycled polyester from plastic bottles or discarded fishing nets.
- Non-Toxic Dyes & Glues: Water-based adhesives and non-toxic dyes minimize pollution and skin irritation.
- Fair Labor Practices: Ethical manufacturing ensures workers are treated fairly and earn a living wage.
Key Certifications for Eco-Friendly Wetsuits
To navigate the world of sustainable wetsuits, knowing the right certifications and standards can help you identify truly environmentally friendly options.
Bluesign® Certification
Bluesign® is a rigorous certification that ensures textiles and materials are produced with minimal environmental impact. Wetsuits that meet Bluesign® standards are made with safer chemicals, reduced water consumption, and responsible energy use.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certification
FSC certification ensures that any rubber used in wetsuits (such as Yulex®) comes from responsibly managed forests that prioritize biodiversity and conservation. This certification is crucial for avoiding deforestation and promoting sustainable farming practices.
Oeko-Tex® Standard 100
Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 guarantees that no harmful chemicals are present in the wetsuit fabric, making it safe for both consumers and the environment. This certification is particularly relevant for ensuring that dyes, coatings, and adhesives are free from toxic substances.
Fair Trade Certified
Fair Trade certification ensures that wetsuits are produced in factories where workers receive fair wages and ethical working conditions. Brands that prioritize Fair Trade practices contribute to sustainable economic development.
Global Recycled Standard (GRS)
GRS verifies that recycled materials used in wetsuits meet high environmental and social standards. This certification is important for wetsuits incorporating recycled polyester or nylon from repurposed plastics.
The Best Eco-Friendly Wetsuit Brands
Now that you know what to look for, here are a just few wetsuit brands leading the way in sustainable manufacturing:
- Patagonia: A pioneer in sustainable wetsuits, Patagonia uses FSC-certified Yulex® rubber, Fair Trade manufacturing, and Bluesign®-approved materials.
- Vissla: Known for its use of eco-friendly limestone-based neoprene alternatives and recycled linings.
- Matuse: Uses Geoprene®, a more sustainable alternative to traditional neoprene, and incorporates recycled fabrics.
- Sooruz: Offers a fully biodegradable wetsuit made from natural rubber and plant-based materials.
Making the Right Environmentally Friendly Wetsuit Choice
Choosing an environmentally friendly wetsuit goes beyond just picking a product labeled “sustainable.” Look for industry-recognized certifications like Bluesign®, FSC, Oeko-Tex®, and Fair Trade to ensure that your wetsuit meets high environmental and ethical standards. By opting for a sustainable wetsuit made with natural or recycled materials, you’ll not only reduce your ecological footprint but also support brands that are making a positive impact.
Investing in an eco-friendly wetsuit means you can enjoy your time in the water knowing that your gear aligns with your values—protecting both the oceans you love and the planet as a whole.
