The suits come in a wide array of sizes and thicknesses, and their design has improved massively in recent years, adding better flexibility and sealing. This fall, Patagonia will launch a new U-Zip version of the suit, featuring a long zipper that arcs from one shoulder to the other across the chest. I tested it this winter and it kept me extremely warm and prevented flushing (when water gets down your neck), better than any wetsuit I’ve used before. They are on the pricier side, but they are durable and should last you a long time.
If you’d like to save a little money, Billabong’s Upcycler line is another excellent option. I tested the 3/2 Furnace Natural Upcycler ($380) last year and it was one of the most comfortable, flexible wetsuits I’ve ever worn. Like Patagonia, it’s also made from natural, sustainably harvested rubber (Hevea, rather than Yulex), Bolder Black, and recycled polyester and elastane. It did start leaking at the seems faster than the Patagonia suits, but I still love it on less-frigid days. The women’s line is limited to 4/3 thickness, which is unfortunate.
Comfortable, Affordable Swimwear
On the men’s side, the most comfortable board shorts I’ve ever worn are also very sustainable and affordable, and that would be the Hurley’s Phantom-Eco Block Party boardshorts ($52). Its four-way stretch fabric is light and super flexible, and it’s made from recycled polyester and ocean-bound Repreve fabrics.
For pure sustainability, it’s hard to beat Outerknown’s Apex Evolution Trunk ($168). 90 percent of the trunks are made of Boreo’s NetPlus, which is a nylon derived from recycled fishing nets (one of the most harmful things that can be left in the ocean). They’re a really well made trunk that sheds water and reduces drag, with a nice zipper pocket in the back. They are on the scratchy side, though, and I definitely felt a bit of chafing after long sessions. They’re also extremely expensive for boardshorts.
On the women’s side, there are a ton of eco-friendly and surf-friendly options. While I did not personally test these, I’ve heard really good things from female surf pals about Carve Designs. The brand was founded by female surfers and offers a wide variety of functional (and attractive) surf wear. Virtually everything the brand makes is made from recycled (and/or organic) materials, and is Oeko-Tex certified, Fair Trade Certified, and more.
If you live in a hot summer location, or are traveling to the tropics, you’re still going to want some sun protection. I am also not a fan of grinding my bare ribs into a waxed board. That’s where rashguards come in. Patagonia’s surf shirts ($65) are made with 85 percent recycled materials and are Fair Trade Certified. Outerknown also makes a hooded rash guard ($125) in the Apex Evolution line.
Getting 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 of paraffin (a byproduct of oil refining), but now there are alternatives that offer all the performance without all the chemicals.
The O.G. in this space is Matunas Surf Wax, which has been around since 1998. It’s made from locally sourced ingredients on their 25 acre farm in Santa Cruz, California. The wax is organic, biodegradable, and non-toxic.
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