Ride the Wave of Sustainability: Top Eco-Friendly Surf Gear for 2026

Surfing Meets Sustainability

If surfing is fundamentally about moving in harmony with the ocean, the last thing we want to do is contribute to its pollution. Although the surf industry has a long history of using harsh chemicals and landfill-bound materials, a new wave of surf gear is emerging that prioritizes sustainability without sacrificing performance.

This isn't just a trend; it's a necessary shift. Each piece of gear we choose impacts our oceans, and it's time we made choices that reflect our commitment to the environment.

A Good Wetsuit

For both men and women, Patagonia's Regulator line is the crème de la crème. Patagonia has long used Yulex and naturally derived rubber instead of neoprene, which is derived from petroleum. The suits come in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses. This fall, Patagonia will launch a new U-Zip version of the suit, featuring a long zipper that arcs from one shoulder to the other across the chest.

“It's kept me extremely warm while preventing flushing better than any wetsuit I've used before.”

If you're looking to save some cash, consider Billabong's Upcycler line. This past winter, I tested the 3/2 Furnace Natural Upcycler ($380), which is made from sustainably sourced rubber and has exceptional flexibility. While it leaked at the seams faster than Patagonia suits, the comfort level made it a favorite on milder days.

Swimwear That Works

Looking to make a splash without losing your budget? On the men's side, the most comfortable eco-friendly board shorts I've found are Hurley's Phantom-Eco Block Party boardshorts ($52). These shorts offer four-way stretch fabric, made from recycled polyester and ocean-bound materials.

Getting Traction

To maintain grip on your surfboard, transitioning to sustainable surf wax is essential. Instead of traditional paraffin-based wax, I recommend Matunas Surf Wax, made from organic ingredients. This eco-friendly option ensures a secure grip while minimizing ocean pollution.

Fins and Leash: What You Need

Fins are critical for your board's performance, and you want to choose sustainable options. Futures Fins Alpha Netplus ($65) incorporates recycled fishing nets collected in Chile. Pair these with a leash like the Revolwe Evo-Bio Leash ($45), crafted with 30% recycled materials.

Sun Protection

Don't forget about sunblock! The best option I've found is Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 ($30), which is reef-safe and free of toxic chemicals. It lasts up to 80 minutes in the ocean, making it a must-have for every surfer.

Dry Off with Sustainable Towels

Post-surf, a recycled-synthetic towel like Nomadix Original Towel ($45) offers quick drying and sand resistance. Each towel is made from 30 recycled plastic bottles.

Sandals for After the Surf

Finally, don't step on the beach with just any pair of sandals. Grab a pair of Indosole sandals ($45), made from recycled tires and sustainable materials, perfect for eco-conscious surf lovers.

Sustainable Surfboards

When it comes to surfboards, the most sustainable option is to buy used! But if you're looking for a new board, support brands like Firewire Surfboards ($995), which uses renewable materials and practices environmentally responsible manufacturing.

Conclusion

Choosing sustainable surf gear is not only a responsibility but also an opportunity to enhance your performance while reducing your environmental footprint. I hope this guide helps you gear up for your surfing adventures responsibly!