For women who thrive in the ocean, water wear is more than just about looking good or staying comfortable. It's about making thoughtful choices that protect the waters we love.
As sustainable options in swimwear and wetsuits grow, it becomes easier for you to enjoy your water activities while helping to preserve this oceanic environment.
In life, we want to do things. Sure, we maybe should aim to wanting less, but there’s no way around the fact that what we do has impact. In this case, we want to do that with as minimal consequences as possible. Which is where we come into play.
Traditional water wear and its environmental cost
Traditional water wear often uses materials like neoprene from oil or limestone and synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester. These fabrics are often made from petroleum-based products that contribute to pollution both during production and once disposed of. Synthetic fabrics also shed microplastics with use or wash, polluting the very ocean we're trying our best to protect.
Neoprene, commonly used in wetsuits, is another concern. Its production process releases harmful chemicals and creates a significant carbon footprint. We highly recommend for you to keep an eye on the documentary ‘The Big Sea’.
Since neoprene is not biodegradable, it can sit in landfills for years and years, posing a long-term environmental issue.
Eco-friendly materials leading the change
Thankfully, more sustainable materials are being introduced to the world of water wear, offering ocean lovers an alternative. That’s why we are focusing on creating swimwear and wetsuits from materials that either reduce waste or have a smaller environmental impact.
Some key materials used include:
- Recycled fabrics: These include nylon and polyester made from pre-consumer waste and discarded fishing nets. This approach repurposes harmful plastic waste into durable fabrics for swimwear, reducing pollution and saving resources. Now, the best material is a biodegradable one. Simply put, recycled fabrics like nylon and polyester made from discarded fishing nets aren't biodegradable. Therefore, this also isn't the future, but it's the best we've got for now for products that don't fair well being constructed with materials like natural rubber. Of course, we work around the clock to search for biodegradable materials and sustainable supply chains for these products. We're on it.
- Natural rubber: Yulex®, made from the milky looking sap of the Hevea tree, is a natural alternative to petroleum-based neoprene. We are proud to be the first to have adopted Yulex 2.0 in all our products that use natural rubber. It offers the same flexibility and insulation needed for performance while greatly reducing environmental impact.
By choosing water wear made from these materials, you can enjoy your time in the water while minimizing harm to marine ecosystems.
What to look for in eco-friendly water wear
Of course, we would want nothing more than for you to wear WALLIEN, but ocean conservation is most important. So, regardless of where you end up buying, when choosing sustainable swimwear or wetsuits, there are several important aspects to consider:
- Materials: Look for fabrics made from recycled materials or renewable resources. Recycled fabrics, like those made from fishing nets, help reduce the demand for virgin materials. Yulex® natural rubber is a renewable alternative to neoprene that is less damaging to the environment.
- Ethical production: It’s important to choose brands and materials that prioritize fair labor practices and environmentally conscious manufacturing processes. Some sustainable supply chains also focus on using less water, minimizing waste, and lowering carbon emissions during production.
- Certifications: Look for eco-labels such as OEKO-TEX® or Global Recycled Standard (GRS), which indicate that a product meets strict environmental and social responsibility standards.
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Supporting ocean conservation: For example, our efforts and support to the Blue Marine Foundation. This means that by purchasing eco-friendly products, you're also supporting initiatives that protect marine habitats and wildlife.
WALLIEN obviously does all of the above and more. You can read more about our mission over here.
Why sustainable water wear matters for ocean lovers
For women who cherish the ocean, choosing sustainable water wear is about more than just personal style, it’s about taking action to protect the planet. With the way we produce and offer things, we try to combine the best of both worlds. Which means producing in limited edition drops.
Every choice we make, from the materials we wear to the companies we support, plays a role in preserving the beauty and health of marine environments.
Making a difference, one suit at a time
As women who love the ocean, we have the power to influence change through the choices we make. Opting for sustainable swimwear and wetsuits not only protects the environment but also sets an example for others in the community. By choosing water wear that is kinder to the planet, you are helping to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the ocean.
