12 Best Sustainable Swimwear Brands (Ethical & Eco-Friendly)

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James Miller
By 
With their commitment to sustainable living, and a lifestyle that involves plenty of time spent at the beach and swimming pool, the Miller family are ideally placed to test and review the latest eco-friendly and ethical swimwear for men, women and kids.
James Miller
Updated: October 29, 2024

If you're looking to buy some new beachwear for the summer but want to make sure you're supporting ethical companies, then you'll love this list of the top affordable, sustainable swimwear brands of 2025.

This year I set out to find the best swimsuits made using sustainable materials and practices, but with incredibly stylish designs so you'll look great at the beach or pool this summer.

Ladies' swimming suits are Mrs. Miller’s department (I’ve taken care of the men's section later on), so I've recruited her for her expert opinion on the ladies' eco fashion brands.

Later in this article, I’ll reveal the catastrophic environmental damage done by traditional swimwear collections, and what textiles and other factors make a brand ethical.

But first, I'd like to dive (swimming pun intended) into the list of winners.

Best Sustainable Swimwear Brands for Women, Men & Kids

Quick Picks

  • Based: Los Angeles, USA
  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Swim Range: One-Pieces, Bikinis
  • Sizes: XS-XL | Cup AA-D
  • Materials: rPET Recycled Plastic

Wolven is a swimwear and activewear fashion brand with some serious eco-credentials, and they're one of my top picks here due to their excellent recycled swimwear line.

You'll feel good about our purchase knowing that Wolven will arrange to remove one pound of ocean-bound waste for every order.

Mrs. M Says: James is impressed with the sustainability part of that mission…and I definitely agree that they do sexy swimwear.

Your definition of sexy might vary from mine slightly. As a woman of a certain age (who’s had two kids), I find high-waisted swimsuits hot!

My favorite products are the Noor Reversible High-Waisted Bikini Bottom paired with the Noor Reversible Four-Way Top.

They’re stylish (without being a fad), sexy (without being too revealing), and reversible. You get numerous style/pattern/color combinations from just two pieces of sustainable swimsuits.

Both designs are 84% rPET fabric and 16% spandex, with an odor-resistant vegan suede finish.

Free U.S. shipping is available on all orders over $99, plus free worldwide shipping on all orders over $150.

Verified Customer Reviews

  • Obsessed

    This bottom is one of my favorite pieces of clothing that I own. Not only is the material ridiculously soft and comfortable, it’s SUPER high-waist which I love. 10/10 would recommend.

    Victoria C
    ★★★★★

  • I love my Wolvens!

    This top gives me life! Would recommend 10/10. LOVE.

    Chanel C
    ★★★★★

  • Love The Compliments

    Super soft and very good for loads of activities including water sports, yoga, festivals and sunning. I get so many compliments and I can have two options in one so less to pack on trips for a major win!

    Kristy C
    ★★★★★

  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Range: Swimwear, Clothing, Accessories
  • Sizes: XS-XXL
  • Materials: EcoLux® and EcoRib® Reccyled Nylon, BioSculpt® Organic Plant-Based Fabric

Steph has already covered the Vitamin A brand's sustainability credentials in her excellent upcycled fashions and recycled clothing brands articles, so I won't go over old ground here.

Needless to say, I fully agree with Steph. Vitamin A is rated good by GoodOnYou, with particular praise for its impact on the planet and animals. They well deserve their spot in this article.

Their range of stunning designs are all made from OEKO-TEX certified fabrics, which are either plant-based or made with recycled materials. They ship in 100% recycled, recyclable, and biodegradable bags and mailers.

What's more, it's all made in low-emission facilities in the USA.

Mrs. M Says: The only real problem with Vitamin A is deciding which of their range to choose. Whether you want to go skimpy and revealing or conservative and covered up, you're sure to find something you love.

Usually after testing I return or donate items if I know I won't be using them regularly. This time I'm keeping them all - I know they'll get plenty of use. Good thing we're in the sunshine state - I feel a weekend at the beach coming up...

  • Based: Pennsylvania, USA
  • Swim Range: One Pieces, Bikinis
  • Sizes: XXS - XXL | Cup AA - DD
  • Materials: ECONYL®

Everlane is a brand I’ve been aware of for a while, ever since my daughters bought me a weekend bag. They’ve committed to meeting the key targets of the Paris Agreement, and are eliminating new plastic from their supply chain.

With an excellent range of organic swimwear already on offer (and more to come in their new season collection) there is a lot to like about this brand.

Mrs. M Says: James loves the sustainability ethics of Everlane…and I feel the same way about their functional swimwear.

The Square-Neck One-Piece lives in my gym bag and is perfect for my morning laps of the local swimming pool.

Made from 82% ECONYL and 18% Elastane, it’s flattering, super comfy, and quick drying.

The bright red also makes a real statement without being too ‘showy’.

  • Based: North Carolina, USA / Brazil
  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Swim Range: One Pieces, Bikinis
  • Sizes: S - XXXL
  • Materials: Amni Soul Eco® Thread Biodegradable Polyamide Yarn, Recycled Poly-Nylon Blend

Made Trade's collaboration with Bold Swim is helping bring sustainable size-inclusive Brazilian swimwear to North America.

Free carbon-neutral shipping is available on all U.S. orders over $100.

Their unique Eco Thread fabric biodegrades in around 5 years, even in landfills. It's colored using non-toxic dyes.

Other pieces are made from recycled nylon fabrics which are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified.

Mrs. M Says: I’m delighted to see the reversible theme continuing with this Bold Swim/Made Trade team-up.

The Flora One Piece Reversible Swimsuit is made in Brazil, and provides full coverage while still looking amazing.

My friend Helen is plus size and looks amazing in hers, so I just had to try one too. I love it just as much as she does!

Get 10% Off at Made Trade with Coupon Code: THEROUNDUP10
GET DISCOUNT
  • Based: Queensland, Australia
  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Swim Range: One Pieces, Bikinis
  • Sizes: XS-XL | Cup A-DD
  • Materials: ECONYL®, REPREVE®

Mrs. M brought Peony to my attention for me to dig into their eco-credentials.

Initially, I was unsure about recommending an Australian swimwear brand, due to the environmental impact of shipping to the U.S.

However, their commitment to sustainability is impressive. You can read more about the production methods used on their website.

What really caught my eye is that Peony only uses SA8000 approved suppliers in their supply chain

Mrs. M Says: I’m soooooooo happy that Peony has passed muster with James in terms of sustainability because it means I got to test the Flannel Vacation One Piece.

It’s super cute and super flattering. It would fit in perfectly with the glamorous locals on Venice Lido Beach. HINT HINT JAMES! ????

  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Swim Range: One and Two Piece Bathing Suits, Sarongs, Beachwear
  • Sizes: XS-XL
  • Materials: ECONYL, Recycled Polyamide, Recycled Polyester

Urbankissed is a curated online marketplace that offers a range of ethically made swimwear. They feature several brands we love such as Oceanchild Swim, Luciee, and OSIRISEA.

The styles, fit, materials, and product specifications vary by brand, but they all have some things in common. All brands prioritize ethical production and eco-friendly swim fabrics like ECONYL, and adhere to Urbankissed's easy exchange and return policy.

If you want good swimwear made by good people, you should check out Urbankissed.

Mrs. M Says: I love shopping from these artisan brands. Not only are you supporting small businesses, you get high-quality, handmade items that nobody else is wearing

The Posidonia Swimsuit is a perfect example - it just looks absolutely incredible.

One tree is planted in Madagascar for every delivery made, which is a nice touch that helps offset any carbon emissions.

  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Swim Range: Swimming Trunks, Board Shorts, Bikinis, Towels
  • Sizes: S-XXL
  • Materials: Recycled Polyester, Recycled Spandex

When setting up Outerknown, founder Kelly Slater insisted on being as sustainable as possible.

This explains why all the brand's trunks are made using an ethical production process, from 100% recycled or renewable fibers.

The entire brand is also Fair Trade Certified and Fair Labor Association accredited.

I’m a big fan of the Outerknown Apex Hybrid Trunks, which use recycled polyester and are sewn in a Fair Trade Certified factory.

However, the best thing about these trunks is the well conceived dual-purpose design. They have all the performance you need when on your board, but also don't look out of place going out for a relaxed dinner.

I also get a lot of use out of my Seea Unisex Muir Poncho. Made out of recycled denim and organic cotton, it does an excellent job keeping me warm between swim and board sessions.

Free standard U.S. shipping is available on all orders over $125. Free standard international shipping is available on all orders over $200.

Mrs. M Says: I love the growing trend for reversible sustainable bathing suits. They give you multiple outfit combinations with one purchase, saving both money and resources.

I’m also loving that Outerknown is expanding its offering for women.

My favorite combo is the Seea Rella Reversible Bikini Bottom and Seea Rella Reversible Bikini Top.

Both the top and bottom are produced using 80% recycled polyester and 20% spandex.

The fabric is also rated UPF 30+ to 50+, and a repair/recycling service is available for this bikini set.

  • Based: Nevada, USA
  • Ships To: Worldwide (excluding Brazil and Russia)
  • Range: Wetsuits, 40+ UPF Sun Protection Boardshorts, One-Piece Swimsuits, Two-Piece Swimsuits, Nanogrip Swimsuits, Towels
  • Sizes: Men 28-44 | Women XXS-XXL | Kids Age 5-18
  • Materials: Bluesign® Approved Recycled Nylon, Recycled Polyester

Patagonia makes my favorite spring/summer wetsuit for long sessions on the boards (surf and paddle)...the Men's R1® Lite Yulex® Front-Zip Long-Sleeve Spring Suit.

The combination of 85% FSC-certified rubber and 15% synthetic rubber (sewn in a Fair Trade Certified factory) gives me the perfect level of snugness.

Patagonia is a 1% For The Planet member and funds many environmental nonprofits.

You can read more about Patagonia’s commitment to activism here.

Mrs. M Says: I’m on the same page as James regarding Patagonia’s surfwear.

But I don’t like a wetsuit (I’m very much a fair-weather surfer). I much prefer cute boardshorts and a rashguard.

  • Ships To: Worldwide (Free over $100)
  • Range: One Pieces, Bikini Tops & Bottoms, Board Shorts, Rash Vests
  • Sizes: XS-XL | Cup A-D
  • Materials: REPRIEVE rPET Recycled Plastic Bottles

Loop Swim offers a truly circular product range: sustainable bathing suits made from recycled bottles, that are also recyclable at the end of their life.

They ship in boxes made of recycled cardboard, with no factory packaging or poly bags.

The majority of the range is heat transfer printed rather than vat dyed. This significantly reduces water and energy consumption and uses fewer chemicals, without any loss of quality (in fact the quality is better than any synthetic brand I've seen).

The Loop Swim company ethics are sound. Their workers are paid around double the average wage, and their codes of conduct are fully transparent - you can even download a copy from their website.

Mrs. M Says: Loop Swim has got the whole family covered with their range of plastic bottle swimwear.

The Ginkgo Jazmine One-Piece is my favorite. There’re also many cute sustainable pieces for boys and girls.

Speaking of the kids, it's comforting to know that their fabrics come with built in UPF50+ protection for the whole family, blocking 98% of UVA and UVB rays.

Free international shipping is available on all orders over $100, and I know you'll appreciate that your order comes with zero plastic packaging - a welcome change when shopping online these days!

  • Based: Seattle, USA
  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Range: One Pieces, Bikinis, Shorts
  • Sizes: XXXS-XXL
  • Materials: ECONYL, Lycra Elastane, Recycled Polyester

If you love the outdoors, REI Co-op has you covered. It’s a convenient one-stop shop for all your outdoor needs.

REI Co-op is open and honest about its environmental impact and the steps being taken to reduce it.

All its stores are powered by 100% renewable energy, and it plans to reduce its company-wide carbon footprint by 55% by 2030.

You can read more in the REI Stewardship Report.

I love the retro look of the VISSLA Low Five 18.5" Board Shorts, which they make from REPREVE® (containing recycled polyester and coconut fibers), with 4-way stretch for comfort and mobility.

Mrs. M Says: REI Co-op is one of my absolute faves.

I love that you become a lifetime member for a one-off fee of just $30 and gain access to free delivery, discounts, and other exclusive perks.

My favorite item is the prAna Belltello Swim Skirt.

Made from 78% ECONYL recycled nylon fabric, and stitched together in a Fair Trade Certified factory; it's super cute and playful.

  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Swim Range: Swimshorts
  • Sizes: XS-XL
  • Materials: REPRIEVE Recycled Polyester, Hemp

ROARK is very much my kind of brand. Their swimwear range is made with sustainable materials and offers plenty of choice and color options.

The designs range from plain and conventional to some incredibly bold and funky patterns (some might call them brave). So there really is something for every taste.

Lengths range from 16" to 18" depending on what look and fit you prefer.

It's worth noting that the Boatman range is not crafted with recycled materials, but the Passage, Chiller and Storey ranges are. Needless to say, I am only recommending the sustainable ones here.

You get free shipping on all orders over $75 and free returns and exchanges for 30 days.

  • Based: Los Angeles, USA
  • Ships To: Worldwide
  • Swim Range: Tops, Bottoms, One-Pieces

The Remnant brand makes swimsuits using regenerated nylon fishing nets and plastic water bottles, which helps reduce the amount of waste entering our oceans.

All dyes used come from soy or water-based sources rather than petroleum-based ones. This makes them safe for the environment and kind to human skin. It also ensures that no hazardous pollutants will be released when Remnant Bikinis reach the end of their life.

Every seamstress at the factories used by Remnant is well paid. They get twice the minimum wage, are provided free health coverage for their families and themselves, and are given daily complimentary meals at work.

Plastic-free and CO2-neutral shipping is available on all orders, so you can feel good about supporting this sustainable swimwear brand.

This all adds up to an ethical luxury swimwear brand that is treading as gently on the planet as possible.

Mrs. M Says: I became aware of the Remnant swimwear line via Instagram a while ago, and I've been hooked ever since.

I really appreciate how founder Layli tries to empower and inspire women.

My favorite Remnant piece is the ethically produced Fay One-Piece in Glow Terry. It's the perfect fit, and feels incredibly comfy. Stays in place all day (no riding up!). And looks cute under a vintage white crochet dress.

What's Wrong With Traditional Swimsuits?

Due to the nature of the use of swimsuits (ie, they're worn mostly in water), there is usually some level of synthetic fabric present for performance reasons.

When a synthetic fabric is washed, it releases tiny particles (known as microfibers or microplastics) into the water system. These particles are difficult to catch and often end up in rivers and oceans.

According to the EPA, “a 2019 study by Ocean Wise estimated that the average household in the U.S. and Canada releases 533 million microfibers – or 135 grams – of microfibers to wastewater treatment plants each year”.

If you can’t avoid synthetic fabric altogether, you can reduce the level of microfiber pollution leaving your washing machine by using a GUPPYFRIEND™ Washing Bag.

What are the Best Materials for Sustainable Bathing Suits?

ECONYL

A specific brand of recycled nylon created by the Italian firm Aquafil, ECONYL is made entirely from waste materials such as industrial plastic, waste fabric, and used fishing nets. It's highly valued for its environmental benefits and quality.

ECONYL is Oeko-Tex certified, so you can be assured that no toxic chemicals will come into contact with your skin, or the environment.

Recycled Nylon or Polyester

These fabrics are often made from recycled plastic bottles (also called rPET), fishing nets, or other nylon waste. They provide the same durability and stretch as traditional nylon but with a lower environmental impact.

Plant-Based Materials

Some innovative eco-friendly swimwear is made from plant-based materials like Tencel, which is derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, or natural rubber.

Upcycled Deadstock

Deadstock fabrics are essentially surplus fabrics left over from fashion houses or manufacturers that would otherwise go to waste. By using these materials, swimwear brands can reduce waste and the demand for new fabric production

How to Choose Eco-Friendly Swimwear

Check for Sustainable Fabrics

The first step to choosing an ethical and sustainable swimsuit is to check what it's made from.

Swimwear made from any of the materials listed above is good. Anything that contains synthetics such as virgin polyester or nylon is bad.

Avoid Fast Fashion Brands

Fast fashion brands churn out cheap swimwear that often struggles to last one holiday, let alone an entire summer!

They’re usually made from environmentally destructive materials and might even have been manufactured using abusive labor practices.

Buy your swimsuits from sustainable fashion brands instead. Don’t follow fads. Invest in timeless swimwear that will last years.

Check Brand / Company Ethics

Look out for brands with ethical manufacturing and fair labor practices that treat their workers fairly and humanely.

The number of reputable green certifications a sustainable brand carries can be a great indicator of its eco-credentials and ethics.

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor)

UPF measures the amount of UV radiation that a fabric allows to reach your skin. Swimwear with a high UPF rating offers better protection against harmful UV rays. 

Eco-friendly swimwear brands that combine sustainability with effective UV protection provide you with a balanced approach to both environmental responsibility and personal health.

Prioritize Quality Suits That Stand the Test of Time

Try to avoid fads and trends that will change and be ‘out of fashion’ before you know it.

Stretch your budget as far as you can to ensure you get quality sustainable designs that will last.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Swim In Polyester?

Polyester is a popular choice for swimsuits, especially for competitive swimming. Polyester swimsuits are durable, long-lasting, chlorine-resistant, and offer UV protection.

If you go for a polyester swimsuit, make sure the recycled content is as high as possible. Recycled polyester from post-consumer waste plastic bottles is a fantastic option.

What Fabric Is Used For Swimwear Lining?

Most swimwear linings are nylon mixed with a stretchy material, such as lycra or spandex.

Lining made from recycled nylon waste such as old fishing nets is an excellent ethical swap for virgin nylon.

The Final Word

As more consumers turn to environmentally friendly products in 2025 than ever before, you'll notice that more eco-friendly swimsuit brands are coming onto the market this summer.

This is great because it leads to two things:

  • More Choice

  • Lower Prices

Whether you’re a shorts guy like me, a reversible one-piece girl like Mrs. M, or something in between, I hope this article has helped you start your journey to find the perfect swimsuit made from eco-friendly materials, using ethical production methods.

James Miller
James Miller
With their commitment to sustainable living, and a lifestyle that involves plenty of time spent at the beach and swimming pool, the Miller family are ideally placed to test and review the latest eco-friendly and ethical swimwear for men, women and kids.

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