When you purchase gear through links on our site, we may earn a small commission. Here’s why you can trust our tests and our affiliate partner.
Prolimit have been proactive regarding wetsuit sustainability for some time now, and are very proud to announce that all their new wetsuits are now completely neoprene free. We spoke to Alex Cretier about this latest development.
Photos Marius Brosset and Thomas Roos
What achievements have you made with regards to sustainability over the last decade or so?
Over the past decade, Prolimit has made significant strides in wetsuit sustainability. In 2017, we introduced the Eco Suit, our first wetsuit made with Yulex, a plant-based neoprene derived from the guayule plant, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. By 2018, we launched NaturePrene1, earning FSC certification, and began using recycled polyester for linings and compostable packaging. In 2020, the PF-1 series debuted as our first 100% sustainable wetsuit. We’ve since improved upon this with the PF-2 series in 2022, enhancing flexibility and comfort.
From our Fall 2024 collection onwards we have expanded sustainability across our entire range by introducing NaturePrene2, achieving CE approval for our wetsuits. All our wetsuits are now FSC certified including the PF-3 series, which still remains our Prolimit Future series going one step further in all respects. Our NaturePrene2, along with our continued use of eco-friendly materials and processes, reinforces our commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining top-quality wetsuits.
What is the issue with neoprene and what have you replaced it with?
Neoprene is a synthetic rubber widely used in wetsuits for its flexibility and insulation properties, but it has significant environmental drawbacks. Neoprene production is energy-intensive and relies on petroleum-based products, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollution. The next phase was limestone neoprene which we pioneered in the beginning although mining limestone has also its negative sides for our environment.
In response to these issues, we’re proud to announce that all our wetsuits are now completely neoprene-free. We’ve replaced neoprene with sustainable alternatives like Rubber tree-based rubber (from plantation trees) enriched with oystershell powder (from excess dead shells washed up on the shore), soybean oil and recycled carbon black (derived from scrap tires). These materials offer the same performance benefits – such as flexibility, durability, and insulation – while drastically reducing the environmental impact. This shift reflects our commitment to sustainability and innovation in wetsuit design.
What would you say to any customers who are worried that this might not be as stretchy or warm as neoprene?
Prolimit suits are well known to be stretchy, warm and quality wetsuits. As mentioned this is an eight-years process coming this far and our wetsuits will remain as warm and stretchy as they were. Prolimit will keep our unique four-layer construction with our Thermal Rebound layering which is unique in the industry and warmer than any other construction. To any concerned about the performance of our neoprene-free wetsuits, we want to assure you that our alternative materials have been carefully selected and rigorously tested since 1997 to meet the highest standards and our wetsuits offer the same level of stretch, flexibility, and warmth as traditional neoprene. You can trust that our commitment to sustainability doesn’t compromise the performance and quality you expect from Prolimit wetsuits.
Do the latest wetsuits all incorporate dope-dyed yarns, other recycled materials and water-based glues like your previous suits?
Yes, the Dope Dye process is what we’ve been using for many years and this process saves 119 liters of water in the production process. We also use recycled polyester and recycled PET bottles for our linings.
Environmental factors aside, are there any key technical features in the new suits that you’d like to highlight to kitesurfing fans?
Yes of course – our four-layer Thermal Rebound technology, warmer than any other three-layer neoprene… the Velcro-attached leg straps provided with our suits and the drain holes which work with the leg straps… the alternative arm position specially made for wind sports (different from surfing brands)… the Zodiac and Velvet Airflex linings… the FTM Glued and Blindstitched protected seams… the reinforcement patches on every crucial seam connection point… and the way we use GBS and non GBS seams to avoid rash and increase comfort with watertightness.
Are the new suits approved by your team riders?
Our suits are extensively tested by the best. In recent years our parent company acquired the Naish brand and many of the team riders who switched over are amazed by the comfort and quality of their new suits.
We’re sure the journey to sustainability doesn’t end here. What will your team be working towards next?
Our next phase will be introduced soon, making recycling wetsuits possible. Not just reusing the neoprene for other products but recycling all fabrics, the rubber, the zipper, the polyester lining and so on into new raw materials. We will keep you updated: we’ve got you covered! ■
You can get the latest goodness from the world of kiteboarding by subscribing to our print edition. You'll get 5 packed issues, plus a free tee and free digital access. And you'll be directly helping with our sustainability efforts too!
Check it out now
