Zhik's new ECO wetsuits first UK preview at the RYA Dinghy Show

by Liz Rushall 21 Feb 2019 14:00 UTC Stand F14-F16, 2-3 March 2019

See these environmentally kinder wetsuits on the Sailing Chandlery/Zhik stand (F14-F16)

On show for the first time in the UK at the RYA Dinghy Show, Zhik's new ECO technical wetsuits look set to change the face of performance sailing wear for the future.

With strong environmentally friendly credentials, compared with traditional non-biodegradable, oil-based neoprenes, Zhik ECO Wetsuits are designed for performance afloat.

The new suits are made from a 2mm 100% neoprene-free ECOFOAM, which uses sustainable, natural plant-based materials, and fabrics from recycled plastic. This robust, highly stretchy fabric creates far less toxic CO2 emissions during the manufacturing process, than conventional, non-renewable neoprene fabrics, causing less harm to the planet.

ECOFOAM provides sailors with good thermal insulation and importantly, the soft, 100% recycled, fleece lining is quick drying. Both the lining and outer face fabric use 100% recycled polyester fibre to reduce the use of petroleum and 'virgin' polyesters. An average of 32 recycled plastic bottles are used in each ECO Skiff suit, and 16 plastic bottles for each ECO Top.

ECO Wetsuits are designed with 3D body mapping fit technology, to ensure your suit moves with you. Combined with built-in four-way stretch properties, it enhances your kinetic movements around your boat. Flat-locked seams add to the wearer's comfort.

Drue Kerr, Zhik's Design and Production Manager comments, "At Zhik, we aim to continuously lead the marine industry with performance and advancements in materials. We've already started to remove plastics from all our packaging. We are very excited to launch our new ECO Wetsuit. It meets our rigorous standards for strength, stretch and durability, and it's superior ECO performance is a first step for us towards highly technical clothing that performs for the environment too."

Zhik's hallmark ZhikTex II abrasion resistant fabric protects the high wear areas, and the patented waterproof Loo-Rip seal does what it says on the tin! The ECO Wetsuit ranges comprises the ECO Skiff Suit and Top, together with a coordinating ECO Spandex UPF50+ protective stretch top.

ECO Wetsuits will be available or order on the Sailing Chandlery stand at the RYA Dinghy Show, and going into retailer stores soon, including Wetsuit Outlet, SailingWear365.com and Coast Watersports.

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