Most swimwear relies on synthetic fibres like nylon or polyester, which are petroleum-based and environmentally harmful. However, a growing number of brands are turning to recycled and alternative materials to reduce their impact. We've rounded up 11 responsible alternatives, from bikinis and swimsuits to men's trunks, made from recycled fishing nets, bio-based castor beans, and other sustainable sources.
What Makes Swimwear Sustainable?
According to Helen Lofts, a circular economy advocate and founder of the swimwear brand Davy J, better swimwear should first and foremost mean longer lasting and higher quality. Nylon and polyester fibres are incredibly hard-wearing, but the elastane they're woven with for stretch is often not. The quality and density of the fibre weave determine how robust the swimwear is. Cheap, thinner suits degrade quickly, while those with quality lining and a tighter weave last longer.
Recycled synthetic fabrics like Repreve, Econyl, NetPlus, and Evo are widely used by swimwear brands. These are made from recycled materials, bio-based castor beans, or plastic waste such as fishing nets. Many also have Oeko-Tex certification, ensuring they are tested for harmful substances. Swimwear is also becoming more circular, with platforms like Reskinned offering recycling services. Ross Barry, co-founder of Reskinned, notes that swimwear is typically made from nylon, polyester, and elastane blended in ways that make recycling difficult, but companies like Epoch Biodesign are developing new approaches to nylon recycling, while others like Syre, Re&Up, and Worn Again are scaling textile-to-textile recycling for polyester.
Best for Regular Use: Wallien Yemaya One-Piece Swimsuit
This swimsuit from Wallien is a personal favourite, says the author. After a year of regular sea swimming, it still looks almost brand new. The zip design makes it easy to remove quickly in colder months. It is chlorine-proof and offers UPF50+ sun protection. Made from Econyl and elastane. Price: £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 active beachgoers, this swimsuit provides support and freedom of movement. Finisterre senior product designer Joanna Bury explains they use Econyl because it's soft and silky, made from discarded fishing waste, reducing energy and water consumption by 60%. Made from Econyl and elastane. Price: £90.
Best for Innovation: Davy J Statement Cut-Out Swimsuit
Davy J's fabric mill uses solely renewable energy, produces its own electricity, 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. Price: £140.
Best for Sustainable Shorts: Passenger Drifter Swim Shorts
The recycled nylon in Passenger's swimming shorts is made from discarded nets sourced directly from fishing communities, preventing damage to marine ecosystems. Available in five colours, including retro orange. Made from NetPlus and elastane, with polyester pocket lining. Price: £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 a classic swimsuit and a collection of swimwear from other brands, searchable by fibres like Econyl and Repreve. Made from Econyl and elastane. Price: £85.
Best for Bright Briefs: Budgy Smuggler Pink Pineapples Trunks
Australian brand Budgy Smuggler offers recycled tighties in a huge range of prints, all customisable with logos or photos. Made from recycled polyester (GRS certified) and elastane. Price: £39.99.
Best for the Local Swim Club: Batoko Camo Swimsuit
Batoko's swimsuits are designed for supportive swimming without underwiring or cups, with thick, lined fabric and a high-back design. Available up to size 3XL (UK 24-26). Digitally printed for less waste. Made from recycled polyester (GRS certified) and elastane. Price: £60.
Best for Time-of-the-Month Swims: Modibodi High-Waist Bikini Brief
These period-proof bikini briefs from Modibodi are made from part-recycled materials and designed for confidence on heavy days, holding the equivalent of 10 tampons. Made from recycled nylon and elastane (polyester gusset). Price: £31.99.
Swimwear Care and End-of-Life Solutions
To make swimwear last longer, rinse in fresh water after every use, especially after chlorine or seawater. Hand wash at 30°C with mild detergent. Dry out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. For repairs, find a local mender or use apps like The Seam. When swimwear is no longer usable, donate or sell it if in good condition. Reskinned prioritises reuse; if not possible, items are directed to textile-to-textile recycling or mechanically recycled for interior products. Brands like Finisterre, Davy J, and Kōraru accept back their own worn-out swimwear.
