Sustainability should always be a requirement in garment making, hence, it was the first thought that came to mind when beginning research into what type of neoprene would be used for Nisí.

Careful consideration was made into finding the right manufacturers around the world that focus on eco-prene only; limestone neoprene, recycled neoprene, non-neoprene, recycled fabrics, dope dyed fabrics and so on.

After looking into the benefits of all these options, Yamamoto Japanese limestone ecoprene as well as BIO-SS (bio based rubber) were chosen out of the selection.

What is limestone Neoprene?

In the 1960s a new type of neoprene was pioneered by Japan’s Yamamoto Corporation. Instead of regular neoprene, compounding of harmful petroleum chloroprene, eco-prene is mined from calcium carbonate limestone to form chloroprene rubber chips. These chips are then melted down and infused with air bubbles, causing a result of a high micro-cell structure.  

Having more air bubbles than regular neoprene, it is impermeable, lighter, warmer and extra stretchy.

What is BIO-SS? 

BIO-SS 75%, Bio-based Rubber Sponge is 100% neoprene free but with the characteristics of warmth, weather-resistance and stretch. It’s made from natural raw materials such as seashells, rubber trees, sugar cane and non-edible plant oil. The 15% comes from recycled plastic bottles, making this form of eco-prene entirely recyclable.

 

 

Why non-toxic neoprene matters

PETROLEUM

Petroleum is known for being one of the big contributors to environmental damage as well as climate change.  

PRODUCTION PROCESS

A petroleum based neoprene uses a significant amount of energy and fuel, resulting in heavy carbon emissions. 

The process of turning limestone into neoprene uses less energy compared to oil-based neoprene. And in not using oil at all, this reduces the risk of oil spills in its production. Bio ss is neoprene free and lowers the carbon footprint it uses by at least 58%. Which is significantly better. 

DISPOSAL

When neoprene is at the end of its life, there is no eco-friendly way to dispose of it. Neoprene is not biodegradable or compostable.

Limestone eco-prene is more durable, meaning you do not have to replace it as quickly, reducing the need for ‘fast fashion waste’. 

Bio-ss uses recycled plastic bottles, rubber tree, seashells and non edible plant oils, making the material entirely recyclable. 

 

LIGHTER

The weight of the limestone eco-prene remains almost the same whether wet or dry.

WARMER

A thinner wetsuit that doesn’t sacrifice warmth. 

STRETCH

Limestone eco-prene has ‘cell memory’, meaning it moulds to your body shape and does not loosen over time.

SUSTAINABLE

Turning limestone into neoprene uses less energy than oil-based neoprene - removing the risk of oil spills in its production. 

BIO-SS Neoprene Characteristics  

RENEWABLE