Most swimwear relies on synthetic fibres like nylon and polyester, which are petroleum-based and non-biodegradable. However, a growing number of brands are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact by using recycled materials, bio-based alternatives, and circular initiatives. Here are 11 more responsible alternatives, from bikinis and swimsuits to men's trunks.
What Makes Swimwear Sustainable?
Helen Lofts, circular economy advocate and founder of swimwear brand Davy J, emphasises that better swimwear should first and foremost mean longer lasting and higher quality. Nylon and polyester fibres are incredibly hard-wearing, but the elastane woven with them for stretch often degrades faster. Cheap, thinner swimsuits start to go see-through and degrade much quicker than those with quality lining and a tighter weave.
Recycled synthetic fabrics like Repreve, Econyl, NetPlus, and Evo are widely used by swimwear brands to achieve quality with lower environmental impact. These are made from recycled materials, bio-based castor beans, or plastic waste such as fishing nets. They often carry Oeko-Tex certification, meaning the fabric has been tested for harmful substances. Swimwear is also becoming more circular, with platforms like Reskinned offering recycling for old swimwear.
The Best Responsible Swimwear
Best for Regular Use: Wallien Yemaya One-Piece Swimsuit
This swimsuit from Wallien is a personal favourite, worn a couple of times a week for sea swimming. The zip design makes it easy to remove quickly during colder months. It is chlorine-proof and offers UPF50+ sun protection. After a year of frequent use, it still looks almost brand new. Made from Econyl and elastane. £119.
Best for Great Coverage: Junk LDN Sydney Bikini
Junk LDN offers bright, fun bikinis designed with fuller figures in mind. The Sydney bikini top is A-J cup friendly with toggles for adjusting cup coverage. Made from Reclaim Prime (recycled nylon) and elastane, certified by Oeko-Tex and GRS. Top £55, briefs £50.
Best for Watersports: Finisterre Senara V-Neck Swimsuit
Designed for support and freedom of movement, this swimsuit uses Econyl, made from discarded fishing waste. According to senior product designer Joanna Bury, this reduces energy and water consumption by 60%. Made from Econyl and elastane. £90.
Best for Innovation: Davy J Statement Cut-Out Swimsuit
Davy J's fabric mill uses solely renewable energy, produces its own electricity, and recycles 83% of its water and 99% of its production waste. The Statement cut-out swimsuit is made from 100% regenerated nylon (Econyl) and elastane, with a deep plunge neckline that can be worn as a body with jeans. £140.
Best for Sustainable Shorts: Passenger Drifter Swim Shorts
Passenger's recycled nylon is made from discarded nets sourced directly from fishing communities before they can damage ecosystems. The shorts are available in five colours, including retro orange. Made from NetPlus and elastane. £44.95.
Best for Chic Bikinis: Kōraru Bellina Bikini
Kōraru focuses on upcycling end-of-roll fabrics from fashion houses near its London manufacturer. The brand donates $5 from every set or one-piece sold to the Coral Reef Alliance. Made from polyamide and elastane (end-of-roll fabrics). Top £62, bottoms £62.
Best for Multi-Brand Shopping: Made of Water Classic Swimsuit
This Cornish-founded brand offers its own swimwear and a collection from other brands, searchable by fibres like Econyl and Repreve. Made from Econyl and elastane. £85.
Best for Bright Briefs: Budgy Smuggler Pink Pineapples Trunks
Australian brand Budgy Smuggler offers recycled tighties in a huge range of prints, customisable with logos or family photos. Made from recycled polyester (GRS certified) and elastane. £39.99.
Best for the Local Swim Club: Batoko Camo Swimsuit
Batoko's swimsuits are designed for supportive swimming without underwiring or cups, thanks to thick, lined fabric and a high-back design. Sizes up to 3XL (UK dress size 24-26). Everything is digitally printed, which is less wasteful. Made from recycled polyester (GRS certified) and elastane. £60.
Best for Time-of-the-Month Swims: Modibodi High-Waist Bikini Brief
From period underwear specialists Modibodi, these briefs are made from part-recycled materials and designed to give confidence even on heavy days, holding the equivalent of 10 tampons. Made from recycled nylon and elastane (polyester gusset). £31.99.
What You Need to Know
Swimwear Care
- Rinse it: Rinse in fresh water after every use. If used in chlorine, put it on a 30C hand-wash cycle with mild detergent.
- Dry out of sunlight: Avoid direct sunlight to prevent colours from fading and getting sun-bleached.
- Fix it: Reattach straps or sew up seams using a local mender or apps like The Seam.
Old Swimwear Solutions
- Pass it on: Donate or sell swimwear in good condition. According to Reskinned's Ross Barry, many people return swimwear because it no longer fits or suits their style, not because it's worn out.
- Recycle it: Reskinned prioritises reuse. If not possible, items are directed to textile-to-textile recycling or mechanically recycled into filling for cushions, stools, and animal beds. Brands like Finisterre, Davy J, and Kōraru accept back their own worn-out swimwear.
