7 Sustainable Men’s Swimwear Brands to Help You Make a Splash Responsibly
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Are you a conscious consumer who wants to enjoy the beach without harming the planet? Do you want to make a statement with your swimwear while supporting ethical manufacturing practices?
If so, you're in luck! Sustainable men's swimwear brands are rising, offering eco-friendly and socially responsible options that allow you to look good and feel good about your purchase.
As the fast fashion industry continues to grapple with its environmental impact, it's important to consider the impact of swimwear, which can contribute to ocean pollution and harm marine life.
Sustainable men's swimwear brands are addressing these concerns using recycled materials, eco-friendly dyes, and ethical manufacturing practices to create stylish and sustainable swimwear.
Sustainable Swimwear Brands For Men
From Outerknown's stylish trunks made from recycled nylon and polyester to Dedicated's versatile designs made from recycled plastic bottles, these brands offer sustainable options catering to different tastes and needs.
At the bottom of this post. We'll dive into how we choose these brands and explore the materials, ethical practices, and corporate responsibility of each one.
1. Outerknown
Price: $78–$145
Sizes: S–XXL
Outerknown is a sustainable men's clothing brand founded by legendary surfer Kelly Slater and designer John Moore in 2015.
The brand's men's swimwear collection includes a variety of styles, from classic trunks to responsible board shorts, in a range of colors and patterns. Outerknown's swimwear is designed to be both comfortable and durable, making it perfect for a day at the beach or a surf session.
Outerknown's Apex Trunks are popular in the men's swimwear collection. These trunks are designed to be both stylish and functional, with a range of features that make them ideal for a day at the beach or a surf session.
The Apex Trunks are also comfortable and functional, with a drawstring waist and side pockets designed to drain quickly. The trunks are available in various colors and patterns, including solid colors and prints that reflect Outerknown's coastal-inspired aesthetic.
Outerknown's fabric and materials
The Apex Trunks are made from recycled polyester and spandex, which gives them a soft and stretchy feel while also being eco-friendly. The fabric is treated with a PFOA-free water-repellent coating, which helps to repel water and dry quickly.
This feature is particularly useful for surfers or anyone who wants to spend a lot of time in the water without feeling weighed down by wet fabric.
Outerknown is transparent about its supply chain, providing information about the factories and materials used to make its clothing.
Outerknown's ethical sourcing
Outerknown also uses eco-friendly dyes and printing techniques and works with Fair Labor Association-certified factories to ensure workers are paid fairly and work safely.
Outerknown's corporate responsibility
Outerknown has launched a program called "Renewal Workshop" to give new life to damaged or returned clothing. The program repairs and refurbishes clothing, allowing it to be resold and reducing landfill waste.
They have also partnered with organizations that support ocean conservation, such as Sustainable Surf and Ocean Conservancy. The brand also supports the "100% for the Planet" initiative, donating 1% of its sales to environmental organizations.
2. Patagonia
Price: $65–$69
Sizes: XS-XXL or 28”–44″
Patagonia is a sustainable outdoor clothing brand committed to environmental and social responsibility since its inception in 1973. Patagonia's swimwear line includes a range of swim trunks and board shorts that are made from sustainable materials and designed to be functional and stylish.
These sustainable men’s bathing suits are also designed to be functional and comfortable. The trunks feature design elements perfect for water activities, such as quick-drying fabrics, mesh-lined pockets that drain easily, and drawstring waistbands that allow a customizable fit.
Patagonia's swimwear is also PFC-free, which means it doesn't contain perfluorinated compounds that can harm the environment and human health.
Patagonia's fabrics and materials
94% of their product line is made from recycled materials. These trunks are made from either 87% post-consumer recycled polyester or NetPlus® 100% recycled nylon from recycled ocean plastic, primarily sourced from discarded fishing nets.
In addition to recycled polyester, Patagonia uses organic cotton and Tencel in some swimwear styles.
Patagonia's commitment to sustainability also extends to their wetsuits, made from FSC-certified Yulex® natural rubber. This type of rubber is sourced from responsibly managed forests and is a more sustainable alternative to traditional neoprene wetsuits, which can harm the environment.
Patagonia's ethical sourcing
One unique feature of Patagonia's men's recycled swim shorts is the Fair Trade Certified sewn construction. This certification ensures that the workers who made the trunks were paid a fair wage and had safe working conditions. This is part of Patagonia's commitment to fair labor practices and supply chain transparency.
The company regularly audits its suppliers to ensure they meet its environmental and social standards and has published a list of its suppliers on its website.
The company has implemented strict environmental and social standards for its suppliers. Nine of its top ten material suppliers are bluesign®-approved, meaning they use zero toxic chemicals in their production processes.
Patagonia's corporate responsibility
Patagonia's Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC) aims to promote regenerative agriculture practices that improve soil health, sequester carbon, and support biodiversity. This certification goes beyond traditional organic certification to incorporate social and animal welfare standards.
Patagonia is one of several companies that has helped develop this certification, which is now available to other brands and farmers.
Their Worn Wear program is another initiative that promotes sustainability by reducing textile waste. Worn Wear encourages customers to repair, reuse, and recycle their clothing rather than buy new items.
The program includes a repair service that can fix everything from rips to zippers, a trade-in program that allows customers to trade in their used Patagonia clothing for credit, and a recycling program that recycles Patagonia clothing into new products.
3. Dedicated
Price: $69
Sizes: XS-XXL
Dedicated is a sustainable fashion brand that was founded in 2006 to create clothing that's both trendy and environmentally friendly. The brand is based in Sweden and strongly focuses on sustainability, social responsibility, and transparency.
Their swim trunks are designed to be both stylish and functional, with features such as mesh-lined pockets and adjustable waistbands.
They offer a range of swim shorts, trunks, and briefs for men in various styles, including plain, striped, and animal and nature motifs. All of their swim shorts are made from 100% recycled polyester, which is made from old PET bottles.
Dedicated's fabrics and materials
Dedicated also uses organic and Fairtrade-certified cotton as its primary material, exclusively since its founding in 2006. Dedicated has earned the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification (CU 1052414), the industry's most rigorous label.
Dedicated's ethical sourcing
The brand works with Fairtrade-certified factories and cooperatives network to ensure workers are paid fairly and work safely and in healthy conditions.
They publish information about its suppliers and manufacturing processes on its website, providing customers with the knowledge they need to make informed purchasing decisions.
Dedicated's corporate responsibility
Dedicated's Supplier Code of Conduct is a set of standards the brand requires all suppliers to adhere to. The Code of Conduct outlines the brand's expectations for ethical and sustainable business practices, including social and environmental responsibility.
This includes providing safe working conditions, fair wages, and reasonable working hours. Suppliers must also comply with environmental regulations and minimize their environmental impact.
In addition to these basic standards, Dedicated's Supplier Code of Conduct includes specific requirements related to child labor, forced labor, and discrimination.
To ensure compliance with the Supplier Code of Conduct, Dedicated conducts regular audits of its suppliers and provides training and support to help suppliers improve their practices.
4. Asket
Price: $92
Sizes: XS-XXL
ASKET is a sustainable fashion brand offering eco-friendly clothing options, including environmentally friendly men’s Swimsuits. ASKET's Swim Shorts provide maximum performance while minimizing environmental impact.
The Swim Shorts are designed with both functionality and style in mind. They're made from a fast-drying, non-fading fabric perfect for water activities. The breezy mesh provides a comfortable and supportive fit, while the tonal, stitched aglets, and white drawstring add subtle embellishments for a stylish touch.
These swim shorts can be paired with a linen shirt for a full-riviera look or worn with a grey sweatshirt for a clean and effortless summer outfit. Find them in four great colors.
Asket fabric and materials
The fabric is made from 70% Seaqual and 30% recycled PET, creating a breezy, lustrous, fast-drying material perfect for water activities.
In addition to the sustainable fabric, the swim shorts also feature a white lightweight mesh with piped edges for added comfort and fit. This mesh is made from 50% Seaqual and 50% recycled PET, further reducing the product's environmental impact.
The drawstrings on the swim shorts are also eco-friendly, made from 100% recycled PET.
Asket fabric ethical sourcing
ASKET partners with a specialized Portuguese mill to develop a unique fabric for their swim shorts. Seaqual™, a yarn from ocean plastics and plastic waste collected by fishermen, non-profits, and volunteers around the French and Spanish coastlines.
Asket corporate responsibility
ASKET has a "Revive" program that aims to give new life to clothing that is no longer needed by its original owner. This program is part of the brand's commitment to promoting a circular fashion industry and reducing waste.
The Revive program allows customers to send in the ASKET clothing items they no longer need, regardless of their condition. The clothing is then assessed, repaired, and cleaned before being offered for sale as part of ASKET's revived collect
5. United By Blue
Price: $68-$98
Sizes: 30 -38
United By Blue is a sustainable lifestyle brand that was founded in 2010. Their product line includes a variety of apparel and accessories, including outdoor gear, organic men's swim trunks, and clothing.
The Responsible Board Shorts feature a 9" or 5" inseam for optimal coverage and comfort. They are machine washable and can be dried on low, making them easy to care for. To minimize microplastic shedding in the wash, we recommend using a Guppyfriend Washing Bag.
United By Blue's Scallop Board Shorts is designed for all-day comfort and versatility, making them perfect for water activities and casual wear.
The 160 GSM stretch woven fabric provides a lightweight and fast-drying material that is unlined, allowing for seamless transitions from the diving board to the dive bar.
The board shorts have a 9" inseam and a drawcord waistband closure with a gusseted fly, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. Additionally, the shorts feature a back patch pocket with flap closure, interior key loop, and grommet for drainage.
United By Blue's fabrics and materials
United By Blue uses a range of sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics in its products, including recycled polyester, organic cotton, and hemp.
The brand also prioritizes certifications that ensure the sustainability and eco-friendliness of its products. For example, some of their fabrics are GRS-certified, meaning they are made from recycled materials.
They also use GOTS-certified organic cotton, which ensures that it is grown without harmful chemicals and pesticides.
United By Blue's ethical sourcing
United By Blue prioritizes certifications that reflect its commitment to ethical manufacturing practices. For example, they are a member of the Fair Labor Association, which ensures that workers in their supply chain are treated fairly and work in safe conditions.
United By Blue's corporate responsibility
United by Blue removes one pound of trash from oceans and waterways for every product purchased. Certified B Corporation partners with manufacturers that adhere to their Code of Conduct, ensuring fair wages, balanced working hours, and healthy working conditions.
The brand works with seven partners, each certified by at least one of the following organizations: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Organic Content Standard (OCS), and Fair Trade.
6. Prana
Price: $65 - $69
Sizes: 18-40
Prana is a sustainable outdoor apparel brand founded in California in 1992. The brand was started by Beaver and Pam Theodosakis, who wanted to create clothing that combined function, fashion, and sustainability. They initially began by making yoga apparel, but soon expanded into other areas of outdoor clothing.
Prana's 5 Board Shorts are designed to provide maximum comfort and performance for water activities such as surfing, paddle boarding, and swimming.
The affordable sustainable board shorts feature a comfortable waistband with an adjustable drawstring closure, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. They also have a functional fly with a Velcro closure and a zippered side pocket for storing small items on the go.
Prana's fabrics and materials
Prana's commitment to sustainability is reflected in the use of recycled polyester in the board shorts. Prana is a Bluesign® System Partner, which means they prioritize using safe materials and processes for the environment, workers, and consumers.
Prana's ethical sourcing
The brand is also a member of the Fair Labor Association, ensuring that workers in their supply chain are treated fairly and work in safe conditions.
Prana's corporate responsibility
PrAna uses packaging materials that are recyclable or biodegradable and has implemented a program to reduce its use of plastic. They are involved in various community engagement initiatives, including environmental conservation, outdoor recreation, and social justice causes.
7. Toad&Co
Price: $68–$80
Sizes: S-XXL- waist 30”–38″
Toad&Co is a sustainable clothing brand that was founded in 1991 in Telluride, Colorado. The brand's philosophy centers around sustainability, responsibility, and adventure.
The Toad&Co Boundless shorts are a popular choice for men looking for a comfortable, versatile, and sustainable option for their summer wardrobe.
These shorts are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and recycled polyester, providing a soft, breathable, quick-drying material. The shorts have a casual style with a straight-leg cut and come in various solid colors and patterns.
One of the key features of the Boundless shorts is their versatility. They are designed to be suitable for various activities, including hiking, swimming, and casual wear. The shorts also have several practical features, such as a hidden zipper pocket and a drawstring waistband for a comfortable and secure fit.
Toad&Co's fabrics and materials
Toad&Co is committed to using sustainable materials and fabrics in its clothing. They use various materials, including organic cotton, recycled polyester, Tencel, hemp, and bluesign®-approved fabrics.
In 1997, Toad&Co partnered with Search, Inc. to co-found the Planet Access Company, a warehouse that provides paid training and employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
PAC employs up to 70 individuals annually, including product assembly, order processing, and materials handling. Additionally, PAC offers a transition program for high school students to help them succeed post-graduation.
Toad&Co's corporate responsibility
Toad&Co is a proud member of 1% for the Planet, a global network of businesses, non-profits, and individuals dedicated to positively impacting the environment. As a member, Toad&Co has committed to donating 1% of their dress sales to 1 % FTP-approved non-profits annually.
What do we look for when shopping for sustainable swim shorts for men?
When compiling a list of the best sustainable yoga clothing brands, we have specific fashion criteria that we look for.
What fabric and materials are used?
We assess the fabric and materials used by the brand. We prioritize brands that use materials certified by USDA, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, Ecocert, FSC, Fair Trade, Bluedeisgn, Global Recycled Standard (GRS), and Organic Cotton Standard (OCS) as these sustainable certifications assure that the company's claims of being environmentally conscious are legitimate.
Are the fabrics sourced ethically?
We examine the ethical sourcing practices of each brand. We ensure that all materials are sourced from certified factories that carry Fair Trade certification, ISO-14001, SA8000, WRAP, Fair Labor Association (FLA), and B-corp certification, to ensure that ethical practices are followed.
What corporate responsibility do they have?
Finally, we consider the corporate responsibility of each brand. This includes being part of 1% for the planet, giving back to communities and charities, promoting inclusivity, and eco-friendly packaging. By assessing these criteria, we can provide a comprehensive list of the most sustainable yoga clothing brands.
A final word on Sustainable Men’s Swimwear Brands
Looking for sustainable and affordable men's swimwear that ticks all the boxes? Look no further! This range of sustainable swim trunks is stylish and comfortable and helps keep plastic out of the ocean, making them a guilt-free choice for any beach-loving guy.
But before you rush out to buy new swim trunks, don't forget about the most sustainable option of all - the ones you already own! If they're still in good condition, keep using them and save some money.
If you need to buy new, consider shopping at online thrift stores for pre-loved eco-friendly board shorts that won't break the bank.
Share this list with your beach-loving friends and make a splash in sustainable style! And while you're at it, don't forget to pack sustainable beach towels, zero-waste sunscreen, and cute recycled flip-flops for a truly eco-friendly beach day.
