Estimates suggest that globally, approximately 8,380 tonnes of neoprene waste—primarily from discarded wetsuits—are generated each year.  This figure translates to over one million wetsuits annually ending up as waste!

​

Wetsuits are both a blessing and a curse. They allow surfers, divers, and swimmers to embrace the ocean, keeping us warm and protected in even the coldest waters. Without them, many of the watersports we love wouldn’t be possible—especially in the chilly seas of Europe.

​

While wetsuits enhance our connection with nature, they also leave an environmental footprint. The core material, neoprene, is a synthetic, petroleum-based rubber composed of closed-cell foam filled with nitrogen bubbles. This makes it incredibly durable—but also non-biodegradable. Once a wetsuit reaches the end of its lifespan, it often ends up in landfills, where it lingers for decades, if not centuries.

​

A wetsuit typically lasts between one and three years with regular use. With the growing popularity of surfing and the increasing number of surf schools striving to provide fresh, high-quality gear, the demand for new wetsuits keeps rising. Yet, recycling neoprene remains a major challenge, as it is derived from non-renewable sources and is difficult to break down. While many brands in the watersports industry are making strides toward more sustainable alternatives, the journey is far from over.