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Eco-Friendly Surf Brands: 12 Sustainable Choices for 2025 🌊
As surfers, we have a unique bond with the ocean, and it’s our responsibility to protect it. In a world where climate change and pollution threaten our beloved waves, choosing eco-friendly surf brands is more important than ever. Did you know that the fashion industry is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions? This staggering statistic highlights the need for sustainable practices in every corner of our lives, including our surf gear.
In this article, we’ll dive into 12 surf brands that are leading the charge in environmental responsibility, showcasing their innovative materials, ethical production methods, and commitment to preserving our oceans. Whether you’re looking for stylish swimwear, durable wetsuits, or eco-friendly surfboards, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to ride the waves with a clear conscience!
Key Takeaways
- Sustainable Materials: Many eco-friendly surf brands utilize recycled and organic materials, reducing waste and pollution.
- Ethical Production: Brands like Patagonia and Outerknown prioritize fair labor practices, ensuring workers are treated well.
- Innovative Practices: Companies are adopting circular economy models, like Loop Swim, which encourages recycling old swimwear.
- Support Ocean Conservation: Many brands actively contribute to ocean preservation efforts through partnerships and donations.
- Stylish and Functional: Eco-friendly surf gear doesn’t compromise on style or performance, proving that sustainability can look good on the waves.
Ready to make a positive impact? 👉 Shop sustainable surf gear from these eco-friendly brands and help protect our oceans for future generations! 🌊✨
Table of Contents
Quick Tips and Facts
The Green Wave: A Brief History of Eco-Friendly Surf Brands
Top 12 Surf Brands Making Waves in Sustainability
Inject More Sustainability into Your Surfing Lifestyle
Loop Swim: The Eco-Conscious Swimwear Revolution
Outerknown: Fashion Meets Sustainability
Oy: Sustainable Surf Gear for the Conscious Surfer
Salt Gypsy: Empowering Women Through Eco-Friendly Surfing
MYMARINI: Stylish and Sustainable Swimwear
Patagonia: The Pioneers of Environmental Responsibility
Finisterre: Surfing with a Purpose
SEPTEMBER: Sustainable Surfing Essentials
Seea: Surfing in Style and Sustainability
Elle Evans: A Brand with a Heart for the Ocean
Rapanui: Fashion That Fights Climate Change
Sagebrush Surf Bags: Eco-Friendly Gear for Every Adventure
Ethical Brand Ratings: There’s an App for That!
How to Choose Eco-Friendly Surf Gear: Tips and Tricks
The Future of Surfing: Innovations in Sustainability
Conclusion
Recommended Links
FAQ
Reference Links
Quick Tips and Facts
- Look for certifications: Keep an eye out for reputable certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), and OEKO-TEX. These certifications ensure that the products meet strict environmental and social standards.
- Check the materials: Opt for surfwear made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, ECONYL® (regenerated nylon), or Tencel™. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional ones.
- Support brands with transparent supply chains: Choose brands that are open about their manufacturing processes and strive for ethical sourcing. Look for information about their factories, labor practices, and commitment to fair wages.
- Consider durability and longevity: Invest in high-quality surfwear that is built to last. This reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing your environmental footprint.
- Repair and reuse: Extend the life of your surf gear by repairing minor damages instead of discarding them. Explore options for upcycling or donating old gear to give it a second life.
The Green Wave: A Brief History of Eco-Friendly Surf Brands
The surfing community’s deep connection with the ocean has naturally fostered a strong environmental conscience. The origins of eco-friendly surf brands can be traced back to the 1970s and 1980s, with pioneers like Patagonia leading the charge. Patagonia’s commitment to environmental activism and sustainable practices paved the way for a new generation of surf brands that prioritize both performance and responsibility.
In recent years, the demand for eco-friendly surf gear has surged as surfers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their choices. This shift in consumer consciousness has led to a wave of innovation in the industry, with brands exploring new sustainable materials, manufacturing processes, and business models. From wetsuits made from recycled fishing nets to boardshorts crafted from organic cotton, the options for eco-conscious surfers have never been greater.
Top 12 Surf Brands Making Waves in Sustainability
Choosing the right surf brand can be tough, especially with so many claiming to be “eco-friendly.” At Surf Brands™, we’re all about riding the waves responsibly. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 12 surf brands that are truly making a difference in the sustainability game. 🌊
- Outerknown: Founded by surfing legend Kelly Slater, Outerknown is renowned for its commitment to transparency, ethical sourcing, and circularity. They use a high percentage of organic, recycled, and regenerated materials, and their Fair Trade Certified™ clothing ensures fair labor practices.
- Patagonia: A true pioneer in sustainable outdoor apparel, Patagonia has been a vocal advocate for environmental protection for decades. They were among the first to introduce recycled materials and develop innovative alternatives to neoprene in wetsuits, like their Yulex™ natural rubber.
- Finisterre: This UK-based brand is all about creating durable, functional, and sustainable surfwear. They use recycled materials like ECONYL® and offer a wetsuit rental program to reduce waste.
- Salt Gypsy: Designed for and by women who surf, Salt Gypsy is an Australian brand that prioritizes ethical manufacturing and sustainable materials. They use ECONYL® regenerated nylon and organic cotton in their stylish and functional surfwear.
- Seea: Known for their vintage-inspired surfwear, Seea is committed to using sustainable materials and ethical production methods. They prioritize recycled fabrics, use low-impact dyes, and manufacture locally in California.
- Elle Evans: This Australian brand is all about creating beautiful and sustainable swimwear that doesn’t harm the planet. They use ECONYL® regenerated nylon, plant-based dyes, and prioritize ethical manufacturing practices.
- Rapanui: Based on the Isle of Wight, Rapanui is a sustainable clothing brand that focuses on circularity. They use organic cotton, recycled materials, and offer a closed-loop system where customers can return old clothes for recycling.
- Sagebrush Surf Bags: This small brand handcrafts eco-friendly surf bags and accessories using upcycled materials like old coffee sacks, organic cotton canvas, and vintage polyester.
- Loop Swim: This brand is making waves with its innovative approach to swimwear. They use ECONYL® regenerated nylon and offer a unique take-back program where customers can return old swimwear for recycling.
- Oy: This Swiss brand is all about creating high-quality, sustainable surfwear that performs as good as it looks. They use ECONYL® regenerated nylon, organic cotton, and prioritize ethical manufacturing practices.
- MYMARINI: This German brand is committed to creating stylish and sustainable swimwear and surfwear. They use ECONYL® regenerated nylon, organic cotton, and work with factories that adhere to high social and environmental standards.
- SEPTEMBER: This New York-based brand is known for its minimalist aesthetic and commitment to sustainability. They use ECONYL® regenerated nylon, organic cotton, and manufacture their surfwear ethically in Italy.
Inject More Sustainability into Your Surfing Lifestyle
Want to make your surfing lifestyle even more eco-friendly? Here are some tips:
- Choose reef-safe sunscreen: Opt for mineral-based sunscreens that don’t contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs.
- Reduce your carbon footprint: Consider carpooling to surf spots, using public transportation, or riding a bike whenever possible.
- Support local surf shops: By supporting local businesses, you’re reducing transportation emissions and contributing to the local economy.
- Participate in beach cleanups: Join a local beach cleanup organization or organize your own to help keep our beaches and oceans clean.
- Educate others: Share your knowledge about sustainable surfing practices with your friends and family to inspire them to make eco-conscious choices.
Loop Swim: The Eco-Conscious Swimwear Revolution
Loop Swim is a true innovator in the sustainable swimwear space. This brand is all about closing the loop on textile waste by using ECONYL® regenerated nylon, a fabric made from recycled fishing nets and other nylon waste.
What sets Loop Swim apart?
- Their innovative take-back program: Loop Swim encourages customers to return their old swimwear (any brand!) so they can recycle it into new fabric.
- Their commitment to transparency: They provide detailed information about their supply chain and manufacturing processes on their website.
- Their stylish and functional designs: Loop Swim proves that sustainability and style can go hand-in-hand.
👉 Shop Loop Swim on:
- Loop Swim Official Website: https://www.instagram.com/loopswim/
Outerknown: Fashion Meets Sustainability
Co-founded by 11-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater, Outerknown is on a mission to prove that style and sustainability aren’t mutually exclusive. This brand is all about creating high-quality, timeless pieces that are built to last.
What we love about Outerknown:
- Their commitment to fair labor practices: Outerknown is a Fair Trade Certified™ brand, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for the people who make their clothes.
- Their use of eco-friendly materials: They prioritize organic cotton, recycled polyester, ECONYL® regenerated nylon, and other sustainable materials.
- Their transparent supply chain: Outerknown traces every stage of their supply chain and provides detailed information about their factories and suppliers.
👉 Shop Outerknown on:
- Outerknown Official Website: https://www.outerknown.com/
Oy: Sustainable Surf Gear for the Conscious Surfer
Based in Switzerland, Oy is a brand that’s passionate about creating sustainable surf gear that doesn’t compromise on performance or style. They believe that sustainability should be accessible to everyone, which is reflected in their pricing.
What makes Oy stand out?
- Their use of innovative materials: Oy uses ECONYL® regenerated nylon, organic cotton, and other sustainable materials to create their surfwear.
- Their focus on durability: They design their products to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Their commitment to ethical production: Oy partners with factories that adhere to high social and environmental standards.
👉 Shop Oy on:
- Oy Official Website: https://oysurf.com/en
Salt Gypsy: Empowering Women Through Eco-Friendly Surfing
Founded by Danielle Clayton in Byron Bay, Australia, Salt Gypsy is a brand that’s all about empowering women through surfing and promoting a more sustainable approach to the sport.
What we admire about Salt Gypsy:
- Their focus on female surfers: They design functional and stylish surfwear specifically for women.
- Their commitment to ethical manufacturing: Salt Gypsy produces their garments in small, family-run factories in Indonesia that pay fair wages and provide safe working conditions.
- Their use of sustainable materials: They prioritize ECONYL® regenerated nylon, organic cotton, and other eco-friendly fabrics.
👉 Shop Salt Gypsy on:
- Salt Gypsy Official Website: https://www.saltgypsy.com/
MYMARINI: Stylish and Sustainable Swimwear
This German brand is making waves with its collection of stylish and sustainable swimwear. MYMARINI is all about creating high-quality pieces that are designed to last, using innovative materials and ethical production methods.
What sets MYMARINI apart?
- Their use of ECONYL® regenerated nylon: They transform fishing nets and other nylon waste into beautiful and durable swimwear.
- Their focus on water conservation: MYMARINI partners with factories that use water-saving technologies and minimize their water usage.
- Their commitment to social responsibility: They ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for the people who make their swimwear.
👉 Shop MYMARINI on:
- MYMARINI Official Website: https://mymarini.com/
Patagonia: The Pioneers of Environmental Responsibility
Patagonia needs no introduction. This legendary outdoor apparel brand has been a pioneer in environmental activism and sustainable practices for decades.
What makes Patagonia a leader in sustainability?
- Their commitment to using recycled materials: Patagonia was one of the first companies to use recycled plastic bottles in their clothing and continues to innovate with recycled and sustainable materials.
- Their development of Yulex™ natural rubber: They created a plant-based alternative to neoprene for wetsuits, reducing their reliance on petroleum-based materials.
- Their Worn Wear program: Patagonia encourages customers to repair, reuse, and recycle their gear through their Worn Wear program.
👉 Shop Patagonia on:
- Patagonia Official Website: https://www.patagonia.com/
Finisterre: Surfing with a Purpose
This UK-based brand is all about creating durable, functional, and sustainable surfwear that can withstand the elements. Finisterre is committed to minimizing their environmental impact and promoting a more responsible approach to surfing.
What we love about Finisterre:
- Their use of recycled materials: They use ECONYL® regenerated nylon, recycled polyester, and other sustainable materials in their surfwear.
- Their wetsuit rental program: Finisterre offers a wetsuit rental program to reduce waste and make surfing more accessible.
- Their commitment to transparency: They provide detailed information about their supply chain and manufacturing processes on their website.
👉 Shop Finisterre on:
- Finisterre Official Website: https://finisterre.com/
SEPTEMBER: Sustainable Surfing Essentials
Based in New York City, SEPTEMBER is a brand that’s all about creating minimalist, sustainable surf essentials that are made to last. They believe that less is more and strive to create timeless pieces that transcend trends.
What makes SEPTEMBER unique?
- Their use of ECONYL® regenerated nylon: They transform fishing nets and other nylon waste into beautiful and durable surfwear.
- Their focus on ethical manufacturing: SEPTEMBER partners with factories in Italy that adhere to high social and environmental standards.
- Their minimalist aesthetic: Their timeless designs are meant to be worn season after season, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
👉 Shop SEPTEMBER on:
- SEPTEMBER Official Website: https://septembertheline.com/
Seea: Surfing in Style and Sustainability
Known for their vintage-inspired designs and commitment to sustainability, Seea is a brand that’s all about creating beautiful and functional surfwear for women.
What we admire about Seea:
- Their use of sustainable materials: Seea prioritizes recycled fabrics, organic cotton, and other eco-friendly materials in their surfwear.
- Their local manufacturing: They manufacture most of their products locally in California, reducing transportation emissions and supporting the local economy.
- Their commitment to female empowerment: Seea is a female-founded and operated brand that’s passionate about empowering women through surfing.
👉 Shop Seea on:
- Seea Official Website: https://www.theseea.com/
Elle Evans: A Brand with a Heart for the Ocean
This Australian brand is on a mission to create beautiful and sustainable swimwear without harming the planet. Elle Evans is all about using innovative materials, ethical production methods, and giving back to ocean conservation.
What makes Elle Evans special?
- Their use of ECONYL® regenerated nylon: They transform fishing nets and other nylon waste into stylish and durable swimwear.
- Their commitment to using plant-based dyes: Elle Evans minimizes their environmental impact by using natural dyes derived from plants.
- Their support for ocean conservation: They donate a portion of their profits to organizations that are working to protect our oceans.
👉 Shop Elle Evans on:
- Elle Evans Official Website: https://www.instagram.com/elleevansswimwear/
Rapanui: Fashion That Fights Climate Change
Based on the Isle of Wight, Rapanui is a sustainable clothing brand that’s on a mission to fight climate change through fashion. They’re all about creating high-quality, sustainable garments that are designed to last a lifetime.
What sets Rapanui apart?
- Their circular approach to fashion: Rapanui offers a closed-loop system where customers can return old clothes for recycling, reducing textile waste.
- Their use of organic cotton and recycled materials: They prioritize sustainable materials in their clothing, minimizing their environmental impact.
- Their commitment to renewable energy: Rapanui powers their factory with renewable energy, reducing their carbon footprint.
👉 Shop Rapanui on:
- Rapanui Official Website: https://www.rapanuiclothing.com/
Sagebrush Surf Bags: Eco-Friendly Gear for Every Adventure
This small brand is making a big impact with its collection of eco-friendly surf bags and accessories. Sagebrush Surf Bags is all about using upcycled materials, ethical production methods, and creating durable gear that can withstand any adventure.
What we love about Sagebrush Surf Bags:
- Their use of upcycled materials: They transform old coffee sacks, organic cotton canvas, and vintage polyester into unique and durable surf bags.
- Their handcrafted approach: Each bag is handcrafted with care and attention to detail.
- Their commitment to sustainability: Sagebrush Surf Bags is committed to minimizing their environmental impact and promoting a more sustainable approach to surfing.
👉 Shop Sagebrush Surf Bags on:
- Sagebrush Bags Official Website: https://www.sagebrushbags.com/
Ethical Brand Ratings: There’s an App for That!
Navigating the world of ethical and sustainable brands can feel overwhelming. Luckily, there are resources to help! Good On You is a great app that rates brands based on their environmental and social impact. You can search for your favorite surf brands and see how they stack up in terms of their use of sustainable materials, fair labor practices, and animal welfare policies.
Download the Good On You app:
- Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/good-on-you-ethical-ratings/id1044017998
- Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.org.goodonyou.goodonyou&hl=en-US
How to Choose Eco-Friendly Surf Gear: Tips and Tricks
Choosing eco-friendly surf gear doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to help you make informed choices:
- Read product descriptions carefully: Look for information about the materials used, the manufacturing processes, and the brand’s sustainability initiatives.
- Check for certifications: Look for certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX, and the Recycled Claim Standard.
- Consider the brand’s values: Support brands that align with your values and are transparent about their environmental and social practices.
- Think about longevity: Invest in high-quality gear that is built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to reach out to brands directly if you have questions about their sustainability practices.
The Future of Surfing: Innovations in Sustainability
The future of surfing is looking greener than ever! The industry is constantly evolving, with new innovations emerging all the time. Here are some exciting developments to keep an eye on:
- Bio-based materials: Researchers are developing new bio-based materials from sources like algae, mushrooms, and agricultural waste that could replace conventional materials like petroleum-based synthetics.
- Circular economy models: More brands are adopting circular economy models, focusing on reducing waste, reusing materials, and creating closed-loop systems.
- Regenerative agriculture: Some brands are exploring the use of regenerative agriculture practices to grow cotton and other fibers, which can help sequester carbon and improve soil health.
- 3D printing: 3D printing technology is being used to create surfboards and other surf gear with less waste and more customization options.
As surfers, we have a responsibility to protect the ocean and the planet we love. By choosing eco-friendly surf gear and supporting sustainable brands, we can all do our part to make a positive impact. Stay tuned for more exciting developments in the world of sustainable surfing!
Conclusion
As we’ve explored, the world of eco-friendly surf brands is thriving, with numerous companies committed to sustainability and ethical practices. From Outerknown and Patagonia to Salt Gypsy and Seea, these brands are not just about looking good on the waves; they are also dedicated to protecting the environment we cherish.
Summary of Positives and Negatives
Positives:
- Sustainable Materials: Many brands utilize recycled materials like ECONYL® and organic cotton, reducing waste and pollution.
- Ethical Production: Brands like Finisterre and MYMARINI prioritize fair labor practices, ensuring workers are treated well.
- Innovative Practices: Companies are adopting circular economy models, like Loop Swim, which encourages recycling old swimwear.
Negatives:
- Higher Price Point: Sustainable products can sometimes be more expensive than conventional options, which may deter some consumers.
- Limited Availability: Not all eco-friendly brands have widespread distribution, making it harder to find their products in local stores.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to make a positive impact while enjoying your time in the water, we confidently recommend exploring these eco-friendly surf brands. They not only offer stylish and functional gear but also contribute to a healthier planet. 🌍✨
Recommended Links
👉 Shop Sustainable Surf Brands:
- Outerknown: Shop Outerknown
- Patagonia: Shop Patagonia
- Finisterre: Shop Finisterre
- Salt Gypsy: Shop Salt Gypsy
- Seea: Shop Seea
- MYMARINI: Shop MYMARINI
- Loop Swim: Shop Loop Swim
- Elle Evans: Shop Elle Evans
- Rapanui: Shop Rapanui
- Sagebrush Surf Bags: Shop Sagebrush Bags
Books on Sustainable Living:
- The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Make Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
- Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Reducing Your Waste
FAQ
What makes a surf brand environmentally friendly?
An environmentally friendly surf brand prioritizes sustainability in its materials, production processes, and overall business practices. This includes using recycled or organic materials, ensuring fair labor practices, minimizing waste, and supporting environmental initiatives.
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Which surf brands use sustainable materials in their products?
Brands like Patagonia, Outerknown, Finisterre, and MYMARINI are known for using sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and ECONYL® regenerated nylon in their products.
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Are there any surf brands that support ocean conservation efforts?
Yes! Many brands, including Patagonia and Outerknown, actively support ocean conservation efforts through partnerships with organizations like the Ocean Conservancy and by donating a portion of their profits to environmental causes.
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How can I identify eco-friendly surf gear?
To identify eco-friendly surf gear, look for certifications (like Fair Trade or GOTS), read product descriptions for information on materials and manufacturing processes, and research the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
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What are the best ethical and sustainable surf brands for clothing?
Some of the best ethical and sustainable surf brands for clothing include Outerknown, Patagonia, Salt Gypsy, Seea, and Finisterre. These brands prioritize sustainable materials and ethical production practices.
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Do environmentally friendly surfboards perform as well as traditional ones?
Yes, many environmentally friendly surfboards, made from materials like bio-resins and recycled foam, perform just as well as traditional boards. Brands like Firewire and Eco Evo Surf are known for their high-performance eco-friendly boards.
Where can I buy sustainable surf products?
Sustainable surf products can be purchased from brand websites, local surf shops that prioritize eco-friendly products, and online retailers that specialize in sustainable goods.
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Are there any surf brands that focus on reducing their carbon footprint?
Absolutely! Brands like Patagonia and Vissla are committed to reducing their carbon footprint through renewable energy, sustainable materials, and efficient manufacturing processes.