Sustainable Swimwear: Eco-Friendly Brands to Know

Swimwear season doesn’t have to mean compromising the planet. As awareness about microplastics, resource use, and garment waste grows, more brands are offering swim collections made with eco-friendly materials and transparent supply chains. Below you’ll find profiles of notable brands, a primer on sustainable fabrics, and practical tips to shop smarter and care for your pieces so they last longer.

Brands to Know

These labels have stood out for their commitments to materials, transparency, or circular practices. Note that brands update their practices regularly; check each company’s latest sustainability information before buying.

• Patagonia — Known for outdoor gear, Patagonia uses recycled nylon and polyester across many collections. Their transparent supply chain, commitment to Fair Trade, and programs like Worn Wear (repair and resale) make them a strong option for durable swim pieces and surf gear.
• Outerknown — Founded with sustainability in mind, Outerknown integrates regenerated nylon and recycled polyester into swim styles and emphasizes fair labor. They often use ECONYL or similar regenerated yarns made from discarded fishing nets and nylon waste.
• Summersalt — Summersalt focuses on fit and durability while incorporating recycled fabrics in many of their suits. They emphasize pattern efficiency to reduce waste and offer inclusive sizing, which helps reduce returns and waste through better initial fit.
• Reformation — Reformation has expanded into swim, applying their broader brand focus on low-impact materials, transparent reporting, and energy-conscious production. They track water and emissions intensity for key garments.
• Girlfriend Collective — Known for recycled activewear, Girlfriend Collective uses post-consumer recycled water bottles and nylon in many products and highlights transparent manufacturing and inclusive sizing. Check their swim offerings for recycled-fiber options.

Eco-Friendly Swim Materials Explained

Understanding fabric choices helps you evaluate impact:

• Regenerated nylon (e.g., ECONYL) — Made from ocean and industrial nylon waste, regenerated nylon reduces reliance on virgin fossil-fuel-based nylon and diverts waste streams like fishing nets from oceans.
• Recycled polyester — Often made from post-consumer plastic bottles. It reduces demand for new polyester but still sheds microfibers; washing practices matter.
• Polyamide blends with better finishes — Some brands use lower-impact finishes and PFC-free water-repellent treatments to reduce hazardous chemicals.
• Natural fibers — While less common for swimwear due to durability and stretch requirements, some coverups and beachwear use organic cotton or Tencel for lower-impact casual pieces.

How to Shop More Responsibly

Buying smart is as important as choosing sustainable materials. Follow these tips to reduce the environmental footprint of your swimwear purchases:

• Buy high-quality, durable pieces — A well-made suit that lasts several seasons has a lower impact than multiple fast-fashion replacements.
• Prioritize fit — Accurate sizing and brands with inclusive ranges reduce returns and the associated shipping and waste impacts.
• Look for certifications and transparency — Certifications like GRS, OEKO-TEX, and brand disclosure on factories and material sourcing signal stronger sustainability commitments.
• Consider secondhand — Pre-loved swimwear and vintage options extend garment life. Check condition and hygiene guidance before buying.
• Reduce microfiber shedding — Wash suits gently in cold water, use a Guppyfriend bag if possible, and avoid tumble drying. Rinsing suits after each use removes chlorine and sunscreen, helping fabrics last longer.
• Repair and recycle — Patch or repair small damages. When a suit is truly end-of-life, look for take-back programs or recycling initiatives that accept swim fabrics.

Practical Care Tips

Extend your swimwear’s life by rinsing after use, hand-washing in cool water with mild detergent, and laying flat to dry out of direct sun. Avoid machine washing, high heat, and rough surfaces that can cause pilling or snags.

Final Thoughts

Sustainable swimwear is an evolving space: materials and circular programs continue to improve. Prioritize brands that are transparent about sourcing, invest in durable construction, and make it easy to repair or recycle garments. Shopping thoughtfully and caring for pieces well will keep you beach-ready while reducing environmental impact.