A guide with the best affordable eco-friendly swimwear brands for the conscious beach lovers
If you love swimming as much as I do, it’s time to consider buying your next swimsuit from one of the best sustainable swimwear brands.
We all try to recycle, walk places instead of driving, and shorten our showers. However, have you considered the impact of your fashion choices on the environment?
The fashion industry is one of the second-worst polluting industries in the world after the oil industry!
The way clothes are produced is not only harmful to the environment, but it also kills thousands of farmers each year due to chemicals and waste.
So, if that gives you a bad feeling, it’s time to think about making sustainable and ethical fashion choices, and my firm belief is that swimwear is no exception! That’s why it’s important to be aware of the sustainable swimwear brands available on the market.
Conventional swimwear is made from synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, and these make up 65% of all fabric production, causing a huge burden on the planet!
Luckily, there are now more sustainable swimwear brands making use of recycled fibers to produce their suits.
The best part is that there are plenty of affordable sustainable fashion brands that create gorgeous swimwear for those shopping on a budget. Make also sure to check out my guide on the best organic cotton brands.
With summer in full bloom, I want to share with you eco-conscious swimwear brands that attribute to ethical production practices and make shopping an affordable experience.
When it comes to sustainable swimwear, Europe and the USA are leading the revolution, but thankfully many of these countries have worldwide shipping!
You can buy mix and match bikinis to one-pieces and bodysuits for women, and swimming shorts for men.
Even those on a budget can find something as there are a few cheap sustainable swimwear brands out there!
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Table of Contents
Overview: Best Sustainable Swimwear Brands
| Category | Name | Image | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best under $50 | Arket |  | Check here |
| Best for Surf Lovers | Outerknown |  | Check here |
| Best "Made in USA" | Boden USA |  | Check here |
| Best for Fashion Fans | Reformation |  | Check here |
| Best for Men | Patagonia |  | Check here |
1. Summersalt
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Bathing suits and packaging made using recycled materials
- Swimsuits offer 4 x the compression of other swimsuit fabrics and have 5 x the strength
- Cuts out the middleman providing direct to the consumer
- Product range celebrates all kinds of body shapes and sizes
Price Range: Starting at $45 – Shop here
Based in St. Louis, MO, the cheap ethical swimwear by Summersalt are super flattering, UPF 50+, and affordable.
They have many unique styles, patterns, and cuts to choose from. Their marina style is a top seller and is available in various appealing colors, but leopard print is a fan-favorite.
Why I love them: Using over 1.5 million body measurements from 10,000 women and a patented TrueMeasure process, this ethical and affordable swimwear brand is committed to providing the perfect fit. I love their sidestroke suit and also it won Elle’s #1 most widely flattering one-shoulder style!
They also make some of my favorite sustainable activewear for when I’m on the go.
2. Arket
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Swimwear made from recovered nets, discarded plastic, industrial components, and old carpets.
- Take all used & unwanted clothes to be recycled
Price Range: From $20 to $70 – Shop here
Another one of my favorite Scandinavian swimwear brands, the Swedish label Arket is committed to sustainability. They ship their sustainable swimsuits to 18 European countries, including London, and various other locations.
Their signature swimsuit pieces in berry and forest tones and sporty color-blocked strapped bikinis are the bestsellers.
Arket is a fabulous option when looking for conscious fashion brands.
Why I love them: I love their swimsuits because they are durable, lightweight, sun, and sea salt resistant. Their twist detail bandeau bikini top with high waist bikini bottom is my favorite.
3. Reformation
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Sustainable regenerated nylon and deadstock fabrics used to manufacture swimsuits
- Eco-friendly manufacturing practices
- Purchases carbon offsets and encourages customers to do so as well
Price Range: Starting at $86 – Shop here
Reformation is an LA-based brand that makes a significant amount of pieces in-house.
They have a great selection of Cali-inspired suits for your next trip to the beach.
Why I love them: I love Reformation because they have many beautiful swimwear options to choose from like women’s affordable sustainable bikinis, one-pieces, and beach bags. I love their prints that are undeniably LA-inspired.
It’s also one of the top organic clothing brands “made in USA”.
4. Weekday
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Entire swimwear collection made from recycled materials
- Allow you to drop off any old textiles you want to recycle
- Participates in the Fair Living Wages Strategy
Price Range: Starting at $12 – Shop here
Weekday is one of the top Scandinavian swimwear brands. Their affordable eco-friendly swimwear makes a bold statement with a vibrant color palette of yellow, red, pink, tan, and black.
Their key pieces are classic red swim trunks for men and ribbed two-piece in red/beige for women. It’s hence a great option when looking for recycled clothing brands.
Why I love them: If you want sustainable bikini brands Europe-based, Weekday is the brand to beat! Their mix and match approach is what I like the most. This is also great option for those on a tight budget as they offer cheap sustainable swimsuits.
5. Vitamin A
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- All made in California, USA
- Signature EcolLux fabric made from recycled nylon fiber
- Unique, eco-friendly fabrics like EcoRib and BioRib
- Partners with Fair Trade artisan groups
Price Range: From $79 to $265 – Shop here
Vitamin A is a California based brand and their bathing suits are super cute.
They have various styles of affordable sustainable bikinis, one-pieces, and bodysuits in a variety of colors, stripes, and florals.
Why I love them: I love their cut and style. If you want a halter top bikini with a cheeky bottom, you can easily find that on Vitamin A.
6. Outerknown
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- 100% recycled fibers
- Fair Trade Certified facility
- Fair Labor Association accreditation
Price Range: Starting at $70 – Shop here
Founded by 11-time World Surf League Champion Kelly Slater in California, Outerknown offers apparel that reflects style, function, and values.
They have trunks made from 86% recycled polyester and even some made from 100% Econyl!
Why I love them: I love their Woolaro trunks that are made from 100% Australian Merino wool. This fabric is natural, renewable, and completely biodegradable!
7. Amour Vert
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Swimsuits made from recycled nylon and spandex
- Ethically made swimwear with a zero-waste philosophy
- Plant a tree for each piece of apparel sold
Price Range: Starting at $60 – Shop here
San Francisco-based Amour Vert was founded on the principle that great fashion and sustainability can coexist peacefully.
They offer different swimsuits in their collection, each tailored to compliment the female form perfectly.
Why I love them: They have a unique collection of bathing suits featuring one-pieces available in a variety of colors. I love their Gaia one-piece in Riad.
It’s also a top choice when looking for organic clothing brands “made in USA”.
They are one of the best completely zero waste fashion brands.
8. REI.COM – Women’s
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Curates swimwear from eco-conscious brands
- Supports partner brands to create more sustainable products
- Developed Higg Index, a sustainability tool by SAC
Price Range: Starting at $13 – Shop here
REI.com is a Seattle based eco-adventure brand that curates sustainable affordable swimwear “made in USA” from other brands. Patagonia, O’Neill and prAna pieces are their bestsellers. But there are plenty more to be explored.
Why I love them: REI.com has launched Product Sustainability Standards and offers lots of options for affordable ethical swimwear. I love the rip curve one-piece swimsuit from Nani Swimwear. Those looking for sustainable cheap swimwear will love REI’s product range!
9. Boden USA
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Planet-friendly swimwear range
- Made in USA
- Takes steps to reduce its environmental impact
Price Range: Starting at $38 – Shop here
Boden USA sells fashionable, sustainable swimwear “made in USA”. Their stunning swimsuits are made from Econyl and you won’t need to replace your pieces after one season.
Why I love them: Eco-friendly swimwear “made in USA” with a variety of cuts and colors that will fit just about anyone’s swim style.
Promises its suits will last more than average swimsuits and the 365-day return policy guarantees it!
10. Waiswim
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Recycled Nylon
Price Range: Starting at $63 – Shop here
Waiswim sells culture-inspired sustainable swimwear and resort wear, and uses recycled Nylon in its fabrication process.
Why I love them: Their handmade bathing suits are charismatic and unique. I love their El Diamante crocheted top and bottom.
11. Stay Wild Swim
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Econyl in the fabrication process
- Ethical company standards
- Zero waste approach
Price Range: Starting at $97 – Shop here
Stay Wild Swim is a London-based premium, sustainable swimwear brand. Their swimwear is designed to flatter every body type. This is one of the best sustainable bikini brands in Europe.
Why I love them: They stock Guppy friend bags that encourage customers to wash their pieces in them. I like their holiday bikini top.
12. Fisch
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Fairtrade
- Uses stretch-Ecom®, the label’s signature fabric made with abandoned fishing nets
Price Range: Starting at $109 – Shop here
Fisch is an eco-innovative label launched in 2017, designed in St. Barths and made in Italy.
The entire collection is made of stretch-Econyl®, made with abandoned fishing nets. Their 80s inspired styles are definitely an eye-catcher.
Why I love them: The brand focuses on a perfect fit and timeless design. You can pick hand-painted prints, vibrant colors, and lots of mix and match options.
13. Mara Hoffman
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- High sustainable standards
- Made of Repreve® – a polyester fiber made from 100% recycled plastic
Price Range: Starting at $151 – Shop here
Mara Hoffman bathing suits are all “made in USA”. Their signature bright colored printed suits and high waisted bikini briefs are instantly recognizable.
Why I love them: Everything is made from 100% recycled fabrics and provide fair treatment to their workers, minimizing waste.
14. Girlfriend Collective
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Made out of 82% ECONYL® regenerated nylon and 18% elastane. ECONYL® is a unique, eco-friendly fiber made from recycled fishing nets and other waste saved from being thrown into our oceans and landfills.
- Only use OEKO-certified safe dyes
- Packaging is 100% recycled and recyclable
Price Range: Starting at $38 – Shop here
Based out of Seattle, Washington, Girlfriend Collective is one of the best affordable and ethical swimwear manufacturers out there. They love the earth as much as you do and want it to stick around for quite a while.
Because they only use OEKO-certified safe dyes you don’t have to worry about their super cute and cheap sustainable bikinis damaging the water.
Girlfriend Collective sell more than just swimsuits, too, and they’re one of my favorite vegan clothing companies and sustainable underwear brands!
I’m also obsessed with their size-inclusive sustainable yoga clothes.
They have amazing sustainable yoga pants, durable workout tops, and comfy sports bras!
All of their products have a sustainability report, so you know exactly what you’re buying.
Why I love them: Girlfriend Collective isn’t just dedicated to protecting the planet, but they also want to promote body positivity! That’s why all of their affordable eco-friendly swimwear is available in sizes XXS to 6XL.
15. Now in Rio Swim
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Regenerated nylon
- Materials sourced from Europe
- Donates 1% of each sale to the NGO Viva Jacarezinho.
Price Range: Starting at $60 – Shop here
Now in Rio Swim is not only made with the best eco-fabrics but it stays put, looks flawless, and fits like a glove all the while being sustainably and ethically manufactured.
Why I love them: The bikinis and sustainable swimsuits by Now in Rio Swim are reversible. That means you can wear the and combine of parts according to your mood! I also loved that they’re all manufactured in Portugal!
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Best Sustainable Swimwear Brands for Men
16. REI.COM – Men Swimwear
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Curates swimwear from eco-conscious brands
- Developed Higg Index, a sustainability tool by SAC
- Recycled materials
Price Range: Starting at $40 – Shop here
Background and description of the brand: Seattle based eco-adventure brand that curates the best affordable and sustainable swimwear products from other brands.
Why I love them: REI.com works closely with peer brands to reduce and eliminate chemicals of concern used in the manufacturing of products.
Patagonia Waverfarer Board Shorts are a great option for men’s swim shorts when looking for sustainable options.
17. Boden USA – Men’s
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Planet-friendly swimwear range
- Made entirely from recycled materials
- “Made in USA”
Price Range: Starting at $60 – Shop here
Background and description of the brand: Boden USA sells affordable sustainable clothing made in the USA. Their swim shorts for men are made from recycled materials and come in a range of bold colors and standout patterns.
Why I love them: They offer ethical swimwear for men in bold colors and patterns.
18. Patagonia
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Contains recycled materials
- Fair Trade Certified™ sewing
Price Range: Starting at $47 – Shop here
Background and description of the brand: Patagonia is famous for being an eco-conscious brand offering men’s swim shorts entirely made from recycled materials while maintaining UPF 50+ sun protection. Their Stretch Planing board shorts are great.
Why I love them: They offer durable, fast-drying swim shorts with bold colors and patterns. Patagonia products are always high quality, and those on a budget will find inexpensive sustainable swimwear options.
When it starts to cool down, Patagonia still has you covered with some of the best vegan winter coats.
19. Quiksilver Waterman
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Ethically made
- Contains recycled materials
Price Range: Starting at $55 – Shop here
Background and description of the brand: Quiksilver Waterman has strong ties to the surfing and watersports communities since they are famous for making functional, durable, and sustainable boardshorts. Venture Amphibian Boardshorts are the best seller.
Why I love them: They produce the best boardshorts and wetsuits available today. And their ethical, affordable swimwear is famous for its bold colors.
20. Finisterre
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Ethical made
- Premium 100% recycled polyester fabric
Price Range: Starting at $84
Background and description of the brand: Born out of the needs of cold-water surfers, Cornwall-based Finisterre offers sustainable and affordable swimwear for men.
Their Transom 18” shorts consist of lightweight 100% recycled fabric that feels soft and stretchy in the water and dries out quickly.
Why I love them: Their unique swimwear caters perfectly for both conscious surfers and non-surfers.
21. Vissla
The Eco-Friendly Aspect:
- Ethically made
- Safe and fair labor standards
- Upcycled material
Price Range: Starting at $60 – Shop here
Background and description of the brand: Vissla is a California-based eco-conscious brand that makes its garments from upcycled material, the coconut husk.
They transform it into Cocotex yarn and blend with Repreve to create perfect performance boardshorts. Vissla is a Surfrider Foundation Surf Industry Coastal Defender, working to ensure water is clean and beaches are healthy.
Why I love them: Never knew that garments could be made of coconut husk. The boardshorts are breathable, fight odor, and are durable.
What are eco-friendly bathing suits made of?
When you think of eco-friendly swimwear, you think of organic cotton and natural fibers, but these are a no-go when it comes to swimwear!
This is because cotton swimsuits absorb water which isn’t great for swimming. You don’t want to be dragged down by holding half the ocean in your cotton bathing suits or shorts!
So, what material are swimsuits made of? Sustainable and ethical swimwear is made using recycled synthetic fibers like Econyl and Repreve. Using recycled swimsuit material saves raw materials and energy as well as prevents wastage.
- Econyl is regenerated nylon made from waste like fishing nets, old carpets, and industrial plastic from landfills and the ocean. The nylon is recovered and recycled back to its original purity, meaning it has the same properties as virgin nylon. This is one of the best fabrics for swimwear.
- Repreve® is a polyester fiber made from 100% recycled plastic. This means that this high-performance fiber is gained from recycled plastic bottles that are collected, sorted, baled, cleaned, chopped into flakes, melted, and extruded to make this unique bikini fabric.
However, sustainable swimwear brands are becoming more and more creative and inventive. From recycled ocean waste to all-natural fabrics, there are plenty of ways how you can create sustainable and ethical swimwear.
Join the fight against throwaway clothing and plastic pollution by buying eco swimwear and beach accessories from the best sustainable brands.
I hope this look at innovative and sustainable swimwear brands helped you find eco-friendly and ethical swimwear for your next trip to the beach or pool.
Related posts about eco-friendly travel fashion:
- Best Vegan Hiking Boots For Her & Him
- Best Backpacks Made from Recycled Material
- 20 Top Recycled Clothing Brands
- 20 Best Organic Cotton Fashion Brands for Him & Her
Short FAQ about Eco-Friendly & Ethical Swimwear Brands
What are eco-friendly swimsuits made of?
Sustainable and ethical swimwear is made using recycled synthetic fibers like Econyl and Repreve. Using recycled swimsuit material saves raw materials and energy as well as prevents wastage.
What are the best eco-friendly swimwear manufacturers?
Some of the best eco-friendly swimwear manufacturers are Summersalt, Arket, and Reformation.
Where to buy the best affordable and sustainable swimwear?
Just because you want sustainable and ethical swimwear, affordable prices don’t have to be an impossibility. Weekday, Vitamin A, and Outerknown are proof of this, and are the best affordable sustainable swimwear brands.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
