What Makes a Surf Brand Sustainable?
As surfers, we have a deep connection with the ocean. It's our playground, our sanctuary, its where we go to wash away our troubles, and it's crucial that we protect it for future generations. But as more and more people are dipping their toes in the lifestyle and the surf industry grows, so does its impact on the environment. From the materials used in boards and wetsuits to the packaging of surf gear, it's clear that not all surf brands are created equal when it comes to sustainability. So, what truly makes a surf brand sustainable?
1. Eco-Friendly Materials
One of the first things to look at is the materials that a surf brand uses in its products. Sustainable brands prioritise using eco-friendly, recycled, or biodegradable materials in everything from surfboards to wetsuits and accessories. For instance, surfboards made from traditional foam are notoriously harmful to the environment, but brands that incorporate recycled foam, natural fibres, or even algae-based alternatives are leading the way in reducing their environmental footprint.
When it comes to surf wear, sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester reduce the use of harmful chemicals and prevent plastic waste from entering landfills and oceans. Choosing these materials ensures that the products you buy not only last longer but have a smaller impact on the environment.
Diving deeper - Non-Neoprene Wetsuits: Yulex and Beyond
Neoprene, the traditional material used in wetsuits, is made from petroleum-based products, which have a significant environmental cost to people and the planet. Thankfully, there are now alternatives that offer the same warmth and flexibility, without the environmental drawbacks.
Yulex, for example, is a plant-based rubber derived from natural sources like the Hevea tree, making it an eco-friendly alternative to neoprene. Yulex is not only more sustainable but also provides the same performance qualities that surfers need, such as flexibility, durability, and thermal protection. Additionally, the production of Yulex rubber emits far fewer greenhouse gases compared to neoprene manufacturing, making it a significant improvement for eco-conscious surfers.
Many surf brands have started incorporating Yulex into their wetsuits to reduce their carbon footprint, offering an option that is better for the planet while still providing excellent performance in the water. By choosing wetsuits made from materials like Yulex, surfers can enjoy their time in the waves without compromising their environmental values.
2. Ethical Manufacturing
A truly sustainable surf brand doesn’t just stop at using eco-friendly materials—it also ensures that its products are ethically produced. This means paying fair wages, ensuring safe working conditions, and minimising the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.
Sustainable surf brands often work closely with their suppliers to ensure transparency and accountability in their production chains. Certifications such as Fair Trade or B Corp are great indicators that a company is committed to ethical practices. So, when you're supporting a surf brand, it's important to think about where and how your gear is made.
3. Commitment to Reducing Plastic Waste
For any surf brand that claims to be sustainable, reducing plastic waste is a non-negotiable. The surf community knows all too well the impact of plastic pollution on the oceans. Many forward-thinking surf brands are taking proactive steps to eliminate plastic from their products and packaging.
Some brands, like ours at One Blue Eye, take it a step further by actually repurposing plastic waste into new products. By turning discarded fishing nets, fishing crates, and ocean debris into high-quality accessories, we give plastic a second life and help clean our beaches. This not only tackles the plastic pollution crisis but also empowers our customers to be part of the solution.
4. Durability and Longevity
A key part of sustainability is creating products that are built to last. Fast fashion and cheaply made goods lead to frequent replacements, which increases waste. A sustainable surf brand focuses on durability, designing gear and apparel that stand up to the demands of the ocean and are meant to last for years.
High-quality craftsmanship, rigorous testing, and the use of durable materials all contribute to the longevity of a product. When you invest in a sustainable surf brand, you’re not just buying a product for a season—you’re buying something that will last session after session, reducing your need for constant replacements and lowering your overall consumption.
5. Community Engagement and Giving Back
Sustainability isn’t just about the products—it’s also about how a brand engages with its community. Think the Triple Bottom Line - People, Planet, Profit. Many surf brands are involved in local and global environmental initiatives, donating a portion of their profits to ocean conservation, beach clean-ups, or marine research. These efforts help raise awareness and actively contribute to the preservation of our beloved oceans.
By supporting a surf brand that gives back, you’re helping amplify the impact on protecting our natural resources. The best sustainable surf brands recognise that they're part of a larger community, and they use their platform to educate and inspire others to take action.
Check out one of our Board Meet Beach Clean events
https://youtu.be/zbEWQT5Eu68?si=xJozxj0rYA33wvSL
6. Transparency and Accountability
Finally, transparency is crucial for any brand that claims to be sustainable. It’s one thing to make eco-friendly products, but it’s another to be open about your processes, goals, and challenges. Sustainable surf brands should be honest about where they’re excelling and where they’re still working to improve.
Look for brands that openly share information about their sourcing, manufacturing processes, and environmental initiatives. If a brand is transparent about its sustainability efforts, it’s a good sign that they’re truly committed to making a positive impact.
Conclusion: Riding the Wave of Change
Sustainability in the surf industry is more than just a trend—it’s a movement that aims to protect the oceans we love. By supporting brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials like Yulex, ethical manufacturing, waste reduction, and community engagement, you're making a statement that surfing and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
At One Blue Eye, we’re proud to be part of this movement. Our mission is to transform discarded materials into surf-inspired accessories that not only look great but also serve a greater purpose. Together, we can ride the wave of change and protect our oceans for generations to come.
Yewwwww! 🌊🤙
Curious about how One Blue Eye is making a difference? Check out our latest collection of eco-friendly surf accessories, made from recycled ocean plastics, on our Shopify store.
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