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Suits come in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses, and their design has improved greatly in recent years, adding flexibility and better sealing. This fall, Patagonia will launch a new version of the U-shaped suit, featuring a long zipper that curves from shoulder to shoulder across the chest. I tested it this winter and it kept me very warm and prevented flushing (when water runs down your neck), better than any wetsuit I’ve used before. They are expensive, but they are durable and should last a long time.
If you want to save a little money, Billabong’s Upcycler line is another excellent option. I’ve tested 3/2 Natural Recycling Oven ($380) Last year and it was one of the most comfortable and flexible wetsuits I have ever worn. Like Patagonia, it’s also made with sustainably harvested natural rubber (Hevea, rather than Eulex), a darker black, and recycled polyester and elastane. It does start to leak faster than Patagonia wetsuits, but I still love it on less cold days. The women’s line is limited to 3/4 thickness, which is unfortunate.
Comfortable and affordable swimwear
On the men’s side, the most comfortable shorts I’ve ever worn are also very sustainable and affordable, and these would be the best Hurley Phantom-Eco Block Party Shorts ($52). Its four-way stretch fabric is light and extremely flexible, and is made from ocean-bound recycled polyester repr Fabrics.
Pure sustainability is hard to beat Outerknown’s Apex Evolution Trunk ($168). 90 percent of the boxes are made of Borio NetPlusIt is nylon derived from recycled fishing nets (one of the most harmful things that can be left in the ocean). It’s a really well made box that sheds water and reduces drag, with a nice zippered pocket in the back. They’re on the fuzzy side, and I definitely felt a little grumpy after long sessions. They are also very expensive for shorts.
On the women’s side, there are plenty of eco-friendly and surf-friendly options. Although I haven’t personally tested it, I’ve heard really good things from surfing friends Carving designs. The brand was founded by female surfers and offers a wide range of practical (and cute) surf clothing. Almost everything the brand makes is made from recycled (and/or organic) materials, and it is Oeko-Tex Certified and Fair Trade CertifiedAnd more.
If you live somewhere with a hot summer, or travel to the tropics, you’ll still need some sun protection. I’m also not a fan of grinding my bare ribs into a linoleum board. This is where rash guards come in. Patagonia Surf Shirts ($65) Made from 85% recycled materials and is Fair Trade Certified. Outerknown also creates a file Hooded rash guard ($125) In the Apex Evolution line.
Get traction
There are few things more frustrating than being in the perfect spot for a great wave, only to have your hand or foot slip off your board at a critical moment. Surf wax was traditionally made primarily from paraffin (a byproduct of oil refining), but now there are alternatives that offer the full performance without all the chemicals.
The OG in this space is Matonas surfing waxwhich has been around since 1998. It is made with locally sourced ingredients on their 25-acre farm in Santa Cruz, California. The wax is organic, biodegradable and non-toxic.
Sister Betsy