What materials to choose for a surf swimsuit ?

When we talk about women's surfing the choice of swimsuit It's not simply a matter of aesthetics. It's primarily a technical equipment which can make all the difference between a successful session and a moment of constant discomfort. The composition of materials plays a crucial role in the performance, comfort, and durability of this essential garment.

Over the years, the materials used in the design of surfers' swimsuits have evolved considerably. Gone are the days when women had to constantly adjust their swimsuits after every wave! Manufacturers have developed... fabrics specifically designed to respond to the intense movements and specific conditions of surfing.

Furthermore, the industry of technical swimwear became aware of his environmental impact. The oceans we love so much deserve to be preserved, hence the emergence of eco-friendly solutions who sacrifice nothing in terms of performance.

The materials that dominate women's surfing

Recycled polyester : eco-responsible performance

The recycled polyester has established itself as the star of technical materials for surfing. Generally made from recycled plastic bottles, this fabric offers a exceptional resistance while reducing its ecological footprint. Its molecular composition gives it ideal properties to face demanding marine conditions.

This material has several major advantages :

• A impressive durability facing the damaging effects of salt and sun
• A optimal maintenance even after hours in the water
• A increased resistance to deformations and stretching

Some recycled polyesters now incorporate advanced anti-UV technologies protecting not only the fabric from degradation but also the surfers' skinIt is estimated that a quality recycled polyester jersey can last up to three times longer than a classic jersey when it is properly cared for.

Lycra and elastane : the perfect combination of support and freedom

It's hard to imagine a surf swimsuit efficient without the contribution of Lycra or of the elastane. These fibers elastic bands revolutionary features allow the jersey to adapt perfectly to the body's movements while guaranteeing a impeccable fit.

For a surf swimsuit optimal, the ideal percentage of elastane is generally between 10% and 25%. Below this threshold, maintenance may prove insufficient ; above it, the sustainability can be compromised. The most advanced manufacturers like Jubai Swimwear are constantly searching for the perfect balance between elasticity and resistance.

Technologies anti-friction combined with these elastic materials represents a particularly welcome advance. They considerably reduce the skin irritations, a recurring problem during long surfing sessions. 🏄‍♀️

Eco-friendly neoprene: more than just a swimsuit

Traditionally reserved for wetsuits, neoprene is now finding its place in hybrid swimsuits. The good news? ecological alternatives conventional neoprene have appeared on the market.

These new materials, often derived from limestone or natural rubber rather than petroleum, offer remarkable thermal performance while reducing environmental impact. They allow the creation of swimsuits that effectively protect against shocks and cold, particularly useful for morning sessions or in cool waters.

Moreover, their ability to thermal insulation without compromising freedom of movement makes them invaluable allies for female surfers who practice in varied conditions. These innovative materials perfectly conform to the body's shape while offering a superior resistance to the elements. 🌊

Technical performance: what female surfers demand from their swimsuits

Resistant to salt, chlorine and sun

The high-tech materials used in quality surf swimsuits now incorporate advanced anti-fading technologies. These innovations help to preserve the vibrancy of colors despite the repeated exposure to UV rays, particularly aggressive on water where they reflect intensely.

Resistance tests conducted by textile laboratories show that a good technical jersey can withstand up to 200 hours of sun exposure without significant degradation. This durability is due to specific treatments applied to the fibers during the manufacturing process.

Regarding salt resistance, this undoubtedly represents the most significant challenge for surf fabrics. Salt water, being extremely corrosive, gradually attacks traditional fibers. modern materials fortunately benefit from salt-free treatments which create a protective barrier around each fiber. 🌊

Quick drying and lightweight: the essential advantages

The drying capacity of a swimsuit technical makes all the difference between comfort and discomfort. Comparative tests demonstrate that materials such as recycled polyester usually dry 40% faster than traditional nylon.

Here are the average drying times for the main materials:

This speed of drying plays a role crucial not only during practice but also after the session. A jersey that stays humid creates sensations of discomfort and promotes the development of bacteria.

As for the weight materials, it influences directly there mobility and the aerodynamics in water. The modern fabrics often weigh less than 200g/m², offering a incomparable lightness without compromising the resistance.

Breathability and thermoregulation: for surfing in all conditions

The materials techniques current ones are not merely waterproof - they breathe. This characteristic essential allows perspiration to wick away while maintaining a body temperature optimal.

Technologies multilayer represent a major advance in this field. They generally combine:

• An outer layer resistant to the elements
• An intermediate layer thermoregulatory
• An inner layer gentle and wicking away moisture

These combinations allow female surfers to face challenging conditions varied without changing clothes. During tests in extreme conditions, certain technical materials have demonstrated their ability to maintain a temperature stable despite external variations of more than 15°C.

The ecological impact of surf swimsuit materials

From ocean-bound plastic to your surf swimsuit

The transformation of marine plastic waste in high-performance textiles represents a true technological feat. This process includes several fascinating steps, from collection to the creation of technical yarns.

It all starts with the collection of bottles and other plastic waste, often by local communities who are fairly compensated. These plastics are then sorted, cleaned, and shredded into flakes. These flakes are melted and extruded to form Polyester yarns of identical or even superior quality, to the yarns derived from petroleum.

Committed brands go further by adopting strict certifications which guarantee the complete traceability of their materials. This approach allows for reduce carbon footprint of a swimsuit by almost 50% compared to traditional methods.

Dyes and treatments without toxic products

The conventional textile industry is unfortunately one of the most pollutants in the world, particularly because of dyeing processes. However, some more respectful alternatives emerge.

The natural dyes plant-based or colored clay-based products now offer results impressive in terms of durability and shine. Although they sometimes require more expertise, their environmental impact is considerably reduced.

For consumers concerned about making informed choices, some labels guarantee the absence of toxic products:

• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 - Certifies the absence of harmful substances
• GOTS - Guarantees compliance with strict biological standards
• bluesign® - Ensures environmentally friendly textile production

These certifications, although still largely unknown to the general public, constitute reliable indicators for choosing a swimsuit for surfing truly ecological beyond simple green marketing.

Complete life cycle : from manufacturing to recycling

The question of the end of life of swimsuits often remains neglected. Yet some materials offer considerable advantages in terms of biodegradability. Tissues containing natural fibers generally degrade faster than their synthetic counterparts, although the latter still dominate the technical swimwear market.

More and more brands are implementing recovery programs used jerseys. These initiatives help to give a second life to raw materials and to prevent them from ending up in landfills or, even worse, in the oceans.

The circular economy is gaining ground in the world of surfing. Some innovative manufacturers are now managing to create new products made from old jerseys, thus completing the recycling loop. These promising advances significantly reduce the environmental impact global of our equipment.

Choose the ideal jersey material according to your activity.

For beginners: focus on support and resistance

When you're starting out in surfing, falls and clumsy movements are inevitable. Therefore, it is primary to choose a jersey offering excellent maintenance and one resistance foolproof.

Materials recommended for learning generally contain a higher percentage of elastane (15-20%) to ensure that everything stays in place, even after a spectacular fall. 🌊

From a budget perspective, it's wise to invest in a jersey of intermediate quality. Too low-end, it won't last; too technical, it would be an excessive investment for what is still occasional use.

For experienced female surfers: optimizing performance

Female surfers experienced they are looking for materials that optimize their performances while resisting a intensive use. The technical fabrics latest generation products often offer a perfect balance between lightness And sustainability.

For the competition or the intensive practiceCertain textile technologies really make a difference:

• Fabrics targeted compressions which improve the blood circulation and reduce the muscle fatigue
• Materials hydrodynamic which reduce the dragged through the water
• Assemblies seamless which eliminate the points of friction

Investing in a jersey high-end is fully justified for a regular practiceMoreover, the materials premium generally retain their technical properties for much longer, thus reducing the cost per use.

For occasional use: versatility and practicality

Female surfers occasional or traveling have specific needs. versatility This then becomes an essential criterion in the choice of materials.

The fabrics multi-purpose These hybrid materials allow you to seamlessly transition from a surf session to a yoga session on the beach, or even a relaxing swim. dry quickly And retain their shape despite varying conditions of use.

While traveling, an easy maintenance makes all the difference.Materials that do not retain odors, resist deformation They are particularly appreciated for their quick rinsing and drying time of a few hours. Some technical fabrics They can even be rinsed with fresh water and dried overnight, ready for a new adventure the very next day.

What materials should you choose for a surf swimsuit?

The choice of materials for a surf swimsuit goes far beyond simple aesthetic considerations. textile technologies current offerings provide an impressive range of options to precisely meet the specific needs of each female surfer.

The balance between technical performance and environmental responsibility is no longer an utopia. The innovations in the field of recycled materials and eco-designed now allow you to enjoy equipment high performance while limiting their impact on these oceans that we cherish so much.

Investing in a jersey made of quality materials is guaranting not only more enjoyable surfing sessions, but also to contribute to a more comfortable and efficient surfing experience. Brands like Jubai Swimwear have understood this well by offering collections that make no compromises between technicality and respect for the environment.

So, for your next surf swimsuit, take the time to examine all the criteria to help you choose the right swimsuit. Your comfort in the waves and the health of our oceans They will thank you.