How to Recycle Your Wetsuit
Ryan Hotchkiss September 14th, 2017 Posted In: Articles, How-To
How to Recycle Your Wetsuit
Neoprene is soft and flexible, but also durable, rugged and tough. If you take care of a wetsuit, it can last you a decade or more. Clean it regularly with a neoprene-safe shampoo/conditioner, keep it out of the sun when it’s not in use, and let it air dry, and you can extend the life of your wetsuit dramatically.
But, regardless of how well you care for a wetsuit, if you use it regularly, eventually it will need to be replaced. But, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the end of the road for the wetsuit.
In fact, there are numerous options available when it comes to recycling your old wetsuit.
From donating it to companies that specialize in recycling wetsuits into door mats, computer cases and bracelets, to getting creative with your own at-home projects, there is no need for you to dump the wetsuit in a landfill or just allow it to take up space in your garage. Without further ado, here are ways on how to recycle your wetsuit!
Companies that Recycle Wetsuits
While there are more companies that can take your old, stiff, and holey wetsuit and make something out of it, the following companies have cornered much of the market due to their ingenious ideas.
Suga
Depending on the condition of your wetsuit, Suga will make anything from a yoga mat to a surfmat out of it. In exchange for your contribution, Suga will give you a 10% discount on any item in their line of products.
Green Guru Gear
Specializing in bike tire, climbing rope and neoprene recycling, Green Guru Gear makes laptop cases of extremely high quality. A Colorado company, GGG has turned the art of recycling recreation gear into a science.
The Freecycle Network
The Freecycle Network is a nonprofit organization that coordinates a network of gifting groups, 5,305 in all with 9,113,409 members around the world. The idea is for people to give and get things for free! When your wetsuit doesn’t serve your needs any longer, contact Freecycle!
Wetsuit Wearhouse
Another great option is Wetsuit Wearhouse. While Wetsuit Wearhouse doesn’t recycle in-house, they support Suga and will be happy to forward it on for you. You can take your old wetsuit into Wetsuit Wearhouse or send it to us and we will forward it on!
And if you do, Wetsuit Wearhouse will give you 10% off your next purchase!
Rip Curl and Patagonia Stores
Want to make certain your old wetsuit doesn’t end up in a landfill but don’t want to pay for shipping? Take it to any Rip Curl or Patagonia store and they will both take it off your hands and make certain it is recycled.
Recycling Options at Home
Even if you don’t have an industrial sewing machine, you can still incorporate a few recycling options if you have a little patience. A No. 110 or 120 needle will let you easily pierce even the oldest, toughest neoprene. Use a thimble to save your fingers, and you can make fast work of any of the following:
- Beer Koozie
- Dog Bed
- Mouse Pad
- Oven Mitts
