Sustainability is increasingly becoming paramount within the surf and swimwear industries, with many brands recognising the importance of minimising their environmental footprint. As a brand, we are committed to producing high-quality wetsuits that have the environment in mind.

When it came to choosing a neoprene that aligned with Basic Blue’s values, the first thought that came to mind was ‘How can we do our part for the environment?’ 

Traditional neoprene production comes with environmental drawbacks, including high energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and the use of petroleum-based materials. Aware of these challenges, we embarked on a journey to find a better alternative – one that aligns with our values of sustainability without compromising on quality or performance.

Extensive research and consideration was given to identify a manufacturer who prioritised environmentally conscious materials, including eco-prene variants such as Limestone Neoprene.

Limestone Neoprene (eco-prene) is a type of neoprene pioneered by Japan’s Yamamoto Corporation, in the 1960s. Unlike traditional neoprene, which relies on environmentally harmful petroleum-derived chloroprene, eco-prene is sourced from calcium carbonate limestone. This limestone is processed to create chloroprene rubber chips, which are subsequently melted and infused with air bubbles, resulting in a material with a high micro-cell structure.

Limestone neoprene maintains the same properties as traditional neoprene, including excellent insulation and flexibility, while offering a more sustainable option for outdoor water sport enthusiasts.

Lightweight: Limestone neoprene maintains a consistent weight whether it is wet or dry, providing comfort without any added weight.

Stretch: With its 'cell memory', limestone neoprene molds to your body shape and retains its fit over time, offering flexibility without becoming loose over time.

Warmth: Despite its thinner profile, limestone neoprene provides excellent insulation keeping you warm even in cold water conditions.

Sustainable: The production of limestone neoprene requires less energy compared to oil-based neoprene, reducing environmental impact and the risk of oil spills.

At Basic Blue, we make a conscious choice to make a difference. We pride ourselves on being a sustainable brand. Our wetsuits are built to last and withstand all your ocean activities for years to come. As a brand, we have chosen sustainable practices from packaging to production, protecting the environment as best we can.