Sustainability is no longer just a trend in fashion—it’s a necessity. At Rad Sourcing, we’ve seen a growing demand for eco-friendly swimwear materials as brands and consumers prioritize sustainability. But with so many fabric options available, how do you choose the right one for your swimwear line?
In this guide, we’ll break down the best sustainable swimwear materials, their pros and cons, and what to consider when sourcing them.
Why Sustainable Swimwear Materials Matter
Traditional swimwear fabrics, like virgin polyester and nylon, are made from petroleum-based plastics. While these materials offer stretch, durability, and water resistance, they also contribute to microplastic pollution and high carbon emissions during production.
Choosing eco-friendly alternatives helps reduce waste, lower emissions, and support a circular fashion economy—without compromising performance.
Top Eco-Friendly Fabrics for Swimwear
1. Recycled Nylon (Econyl®)
One of the most popular sustainable swimwear fabrics, Econyl® is made from recycled fishing nets, fabric scraps, and industrial plastic waste.
✔ Pros:
- Performs like virgin nylon (strong, stretchy, and quick-drying)
- Diverts ocean waste from landfills
- Can be infinitely recycled
✖ Cons:
- Still sheds microplastics during washing
- Slightly more expensive than virgin nylon
2. Recycled Polyester (Repreve® & Other RPET Fabrics)
Recycled polyester (RPET) is made from post-consumer plastic bottles, giving waste a second life. Brands like Repreve® offer high-quality, sustainable swimwear fabrics.
✔ Pros:
- Diverts plastic bottles from landfills
- Strong, stretchy, and moisture-wicking
- More affordable than Econyl®
✖ Cons:
- Not biodegradable
- Still releases microplastics when washed
💡 Rad Sourcing Insight: We recommend pairing RPET swimwear with Guppyfriend wash bags to minimize microplastic shedding.
3. Biodegradable Nylon (Amni Soul Eco®)
Unlike traditional synthetics, Amni Soul Eco® nylon is designed to decompose in landfills within five years (compared to centuries for regular nylon).
✔ Pros:
- Fully biodegradable in landfill conditions
- Same elasticity and durability as standard nylon
✖ Cons:
- Only degrades in anaerobic landfill conditions, not in water
- More expensive than conventional swimwear fabrics
4. Hemp Blends
Hemp is one of the most eco-friendly natural fibers—it’s highly renewable, requires minimal water, and naturally resists bacteria and UV rays. While pure hemp isn’t suitable for swimwear, it can be blended with recycled synthetics for a sustainable alternative.
✔ Pros:
- Naturally antimicrobial and UV-resistant
- Grows with little water and no pesticides
- Gets softer with wear
✖ Cons:
- Not as stretchy as synthetic fabrics
- Typically requires a synthetic blend for swimwear functionality
💡 Rad Sourcing Recommendation: Hemp-blended swimwear works best for boardshorts and cover-ups, where stretch is less critical.
5. Yulex® Natural Rubber (for Sustainable Wetsuits)
If your swimwear line includes wetsuits or rash guards, consider Yulex® natural rubber instead of traditional neoprene. Made from renewable rubber tree sources, Yulex® reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 80% compared to petroleum-based neoprene.
✔ Pros:
- Non-toxic, renewable, and FSC-certified
- Performs like neoprene but with a lower environmental impact
✖ Cons:
- More expensive than traditional wetsuit materials
- Availability may be limited
Key Considerations When Choosing Eco-Friendly Swimwear Fabrics
When sourcing sustainable swimwear materials, keep these factors in mind:
🔹 Stretch & Recovery: Swimwear needs high elasticity to retain shape. Fabrics with Lycra or Spandex blends are common but should be used minimally for sustainability.
🔹 Durability: Chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen exposure can degrade certain materials faster. Look for chlorine-resistant coatings in recycled synthetics.
🔹 Certifications: To ensure true sustainability, check for industry certifications like:
- Global Recycled Standard (GRS) – Verifies recycled content
- Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 – Ensures non-toxic, skin-safe dyes and finishes
- Bluesign® Approved – Guarantees responsible chemical use
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Swimwear Brand
At Rad Sourcing, we help brands navigate the complexities of sustainable fabric sourcing. Whether you need Econyl® for bikinis, RPET for rash guards, or Yulex® for eco-friendly wetsuits, we can connect you with trusted suppliers.
💬 Need help sourcing sustainable swimwear materials? Let’s chat! Visit www.radsourcing.com to get started.