Neoprene-free suits
Surfers have been using neoprene since the 1950s. But neoprene is a non-renewable resource and requires a lot of energy to manufacture. Patagonia, a California-based brand that designs eco-friendly outdoor clothing, has figured out how to create wetsuits without neoprene. For the past 8 years, the brand has been demonstrating the benefits of natural rubber for wetsuit manufacturing. This research has been shared with all surf brands so that the surf industry can move towards more environmentally friendly materials.
An environmentally friendly composition
Patagonia will launch the world's first neoprene-free wetsuit in fall 2016. As a result, the brand is reducing CO2 emissions in the manufacturing of the polymer by up to 70% compared to traditional neoprene. This innovation prefers plants to petroleum and favors the use of renewable resources.
These suits are made of Yulex natural rubber which eliminates 99% of impurities and results in a stronger, hypoallergenic natural material. The plants are watered with rainwater and recycled water is used in the manufacturing process. The rubber itself meets the FCS (Forest Stewardship Council) standards according to the Rainforest Alliance, and comes from responsibly managed forests.
By replacing traditional energy-intensive neoprene with natural rubber, Patagonia reduces CO2 emissions in the manufacturing of the polymer by up to 70 percent. Finally, the brand uses recycled polyester for the inner and outer linings, reducing dependence on oil.
These neoprene-free Yulex suits are made of 85% natural rubber and provide the same warmth as neoprene. However, for better ozone and UV resistance and to make the suits strong and durable, natural rubber is combined with 15% synthetic rubber.
Depending on the model (with or without sleeves), the suit will be sold between 175euros and 600euros
