5 Reasons Women Are Ditching Neoprene for Natural Rubber Wetsuits
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Time to read 4 min
When it comes to wetsuits, the tides are turning. More women than ever are swapping out traditional neoprene for natural rubber wetsuits. This choice resembles more than just a fashion or function preference, it's about values, performance and what we choose to leave behind in the lineup.
At WALLIEN, we’ve seen firsthand how water women are leading the shift toward more sustainable gear. Here's why natural rubber wetsuits for women are making waves, waves which are meant to stay.
Why you can trust us:
At WALLIEN, we’ve spent over 5 years designing and testing premium activewear and wetsuits for women who lead in and around water.
We’ve supported and equipped all sorts of water-loving women — first-timers to pros—helping them feel strong, confident, and ready for any wave.
We stay on the pulse of innovation , studying the latest in materials, sustainability, and performance science to make sure our advice (and our wetsuits) meet the highest standards.
Want to know more? Visit our store
5 Reasons Why - Natural Rubber Wetsuits for Women
Environmental Consciousness
1. Lower Carbon Footprint
Natural rubber wetsuits like Yulex™ reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional neoprene. They come from renewable tree rubber , not petroleum or limestone, and are sustainably harvested to protect ecosystems.
🌱 Made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified tree rubber
🛢️ No petroleum or limestone extraction needed
♻️ Manufacturing emits significantly fewer greenhouse gases
🌍 Supports circular, low-impact production cycles
✅ Helps reduce your personal surf-related carbon footprint
2. Biodegradability & Ocean Safety
Unlike neoprene, which takes hundreds of years to degrade, natural rubber is biodegradable and less toxic to marine life when discarded. A better wetsuit = a better future for your playground.
🐠 Natural rubber breaks down faster than synthetic materials
🚯 Doesn’t release microplastics or persistent toxins into the ocean
🧪 Free from harsh chemical accelerators often used in neoprene
♻️ Easier to recycle or compost at end of life
🌊 Safer for marine animals and habitats
Must Have Earth Friendly Products
“By polluting the oceans, not mitigating CO2 emissions and destroying our biodiversity, we are killing our planet. Let us face it, there is no planet B.”
Skin & Health Conscious
3. Hypoallergenic & Non-Toxic
Many women experience rashes or irritation from neoprene due to its petrochemical base and glues. Yulex uses water-based adhesives and is naturally hypoallergenic , making it a favourite for those with sensitive skin.
🌿 Naturally hypoallergenic and free from petroleum-based irritants
💧 Water-based glues reduce chemical exposure on skin
🙅♀️ No more chemical smells or sticky residues
👩⚕️ Dermatologist-approved for sensitive skin
🩷 Enjoy longer surf sessions without worrying about skin reactions
4. Breathable & Comfortable Fit
Natural rubber allows for better temperature regulation and stretch without the chemical smell or stickiness of traditional wetsuits. It's a more comfortable second skin, even for long sessions.
🔄 Moves and stretches with your body - no stiff shoulders or pinching
🌬️ Better airflow = improved temperature control
🧘♀️ Comfort you can feel, even after hours in the lineup
👃 No harsh chemical odors
🌊 Makes wetsuit wear feel more natural, feel like a second skin
Values & Lifestyle Alignment
5. Ethical & Eco-Aligned Production
Natural rubber wetsuits align with modern values: transparency, sustainability, and ethical labor practices . Choosing Yulex proves itself as a commitment not solely towards performance or fashionista purposes - but to planet- and health-first principles.
🤝 Sourced from responsibly managed forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council®
🌍 Made in factories that ensure fair wages and safe working conditions
📖 Full supply chain transparency, from tree to tide
💪 Combines ethics with elite performance - because they should never be a trade-off.
💚 A wetsuit that lets you surf your values, not just the waves
Summary
Lower Carbon Footprint - Yulex wetsuits emit up to 80% less CO₂ than traditional neoprene.
Biodegradable & Ocean-Friendly – Natural rubber breaks down faster and doesn’t pollute marine ecosystems.
Hypoallergenic & Non-Toxic - No harsh chemicals, glues, or synthetic additives -perfect for sensitive skin.
Superior Comfort & Performance - More breathable, flexible, and odor-free than neoprene.
Ethical & Aligned with Values - Sustainably sourced and manufactured with fair labor and planet-first principles.
Conclusion: A Wetsuit That Matches Your Standards
These five reasons showcase why an increasing number of women are choosing to leave traditional neoprene behind and most importantly, why they’re not looking back. From environmental concerns to personal wellbeing and value-driven choices, the shift toward natural rubber wetsuits forms as part of a broader movement, one rooting for a conscious surf culture. Natural rubber wetsuits like WALLIEN’s aren’t just a smart or trending alternative - they're a bold statement. Better for the planet, gentler on the skin and made with ethics at the core. Because when you know better, you surf with more intention, more care, and more connection - to yourself, your community, and the ocean we all so love.
The Author: Jessy van Wijk
A competitive wave surfer, multiple-time runner-up at the Dutch Championships and full-time student with saltwater in her veins. Between study sessions and surf sessions, she brings her firsthand experience to WALLIEN - sharing stories celebrating the power of women in the lineup while raising eco-awareness.
