You love the ocean. You spend your best moments there—morning sessions, swimming until sunset, waves that wash everything else away. So when you learn that the textile industry is one of the most polluting in the world, and that some swimsuits release plastic microfibers with every wash... it makes you think.
In 2026, eco-friendly surfwear is no longer a niche for activists. It's a fundamental trend, driven by brands that are rethinking their materials, their processes, and their impact. But between labels, certifications, and sometimes hollow marketing arguments, it's hard to navigate. This guide is here to help.
Materials to prioritize
It all starts with the fabric. Here's what really makes a difference:
Recycled Lycra (ECONYL®, REPREVE®)
Made from fishing nets recovered from the sea or plastic waste, this fabric offers the same technical properties as classic Lycra—stretch, chlorine and salt resistance, quick-drying—with a carbon footprint reduced by up to 80% depending on the manufacturer. It is currently the standard for eco-friendly surf swimwear.
Recycled polyester (rPET)
Derived from recovered plastic bottles, rPET is widely used in rashguards and lightweight wetsuits. Less premium than ECONYL® in terms of stretch properties, but very effective for structural support pieces (long-sleeve rashguards, surf suits).
Yamamoto neoprene
For neoprene wetsuits, Yamamoto neoprene (limestone-based rather than petroleum-based) is the cleanest alternative currently available. Better thermal insulation, longer lifespan, less toxic manufacturing process.
Materials to avoid
Virgin nylon, conventional non-recycled polyester, and DWR (durable water repellent) chemical treatments based on PFAS—endocrine disruptors present in many sports garments.
Certifications that really matter
Not all certifications are created equal. Here are the three essentials:
OEKO-TEX Standard 100
Guarantees that every component of the garment—fabric, threads, buttons, dyes—has been tested and does not contain harmful substances. This is the basic health certification, primarily protecting the person wearing the garment.
GRS — Global Recycled Standard
Certifies that a declared percentage of the product is indeed made from recycled materials, and that the traceability chain is verified. Without GRS, the "recycled" promise remains unverifiable.
bluesign®
The most demanding label for textile production: it audits the entire manufacturing process (water, energy, chemicals) at the suppliers themselves. A bluesign® certified brand has done extensive work on its supply chain.
Good eco-friendly surfwear ideally combines OEKO-TEX (material safety) + GRS (recycling traceability). bluesign® is a significant bonus.
Overview of committed brands — and where Couleurs Lagon stands
Several brands have undertaken serious initiatives in recent years. Here are a few to know:
Picture Organic Clothing — a pioneering French brand, bluesign® and B Corp certified, very advanced in recycling. Complete surf range.
Patagonia — the international benchmark. Recycled materials, encouraged repairs, total transparency on suppliers.
Finisterre — British brand, Yulex neoprene (natural base), strong commitment to product lifespan.
Couleurs Lagon — based in Nouméa, rooted in Oceanic culture. Our approach: technical UPF50+ pieces designed to last, rashguards and women's surf suits designed to withstand repeated sessions, far from fast fashion. Our women's rashguard collection prioritizes high-performance, anti-irritation, quick-drying materials—criteria that directly reduce replacement frequency. Making things last is already a concrete form of eco-responsibility.
If you are looking for a women's surf brand committed to sustainability with a true Oceanic identity and pieces truly wearable for surfing, Couleurs Lagon deserves your curiosity.
Caring for your surfwear to make it last
The most eco-friendly garment is the one you don't need to buy again. A few simple actions that change everything:
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Rinse with cold water after each session — salt, chlorine, and sand attack fibers. A 30-second rinse is enough.
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Wash at a maximum of 30°C, without spinning — heat and centrifugal force degrade elastane.
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Dry flat, in the shade — direct sun yellows and weakens technical fabrics.
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Avoid fabric softener — it clogs fibers and reduces technical properties (UPF, moisture wicking).
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Use an anti-microfiber washing bag (like Guppyfriend) to limit the release of microfibers into wastewater.
A well-maintained rashguard easily lasts 3 to 5 years. A poorly maintained one, 6 months.
Conclusion
Choosing eco-friendly surfwear means looking beyond the label: at the materials (ECONYL®, rPET, Yamamoto neoprene), certifications (OEKO-TEX, GRS, bluesign®), and the real durability of the pieces. It also means choosing brands with a coherent vision—not just a sales pitch.
At Couleurs Lagon, we build our surfwear line on solid technical criteria, with the ocean at the heart of every decision. Explore the collection — and if you have any questions about materials or caring for your pieces, we're here to help. 🌊
