ZONE3 has launched what is being billed as the world’s first biodegradable performance-focused wetsuit, the latest iteration of the ZONE3 Vision.
With an RRP of £399, the new model Vision wetsuit uses biodegradable rubber – Terraprene, from neoprene specialist, Yamamoto. According to ZONE3, the Terraprene material preserves high quality and performance, while being able to biodegrade entirely in landfill conditions.
Once the wetsuit reaches the end of its swim lifecycle, the Terraprene material can decompose completely in landfill conditions. Testing shows that the material will be nearly one-third decomposed within two years, compared to traditional neoprene which is non-biodegradable and can remain in landfill for over 100 years.
ZONE3 adds that the material continues to break down until full decomposition, yet doesn’t experience any decomposition during normal swimming or storage.
Users of the ZONE3 Vision will also have the option to return the suit to ZONE3 at the end of its life, where the lining and zips will be stripped and recycled, before sending the Terrapene material to landfill to biodegrade.
Samuel Westlake, Product Designer for ZONE3, said “As recipients of the Queens Award for Enterprise and Innovation, ZONE3 have always been at the forefront of product development. With this launch we aim to bridge the gap between offering a sustainable product alongside ZONE3’s passion for performance products.
“While the new Terraprene Vision wetsuit may just seem like the next step in the innovative sustainability roadmap for ZONE3, it is the first performance wetsuit on the market with improved sustainability credentials. The wetsuit truly is a world first and a great leap forward in making the sport of triathlon more sustainable.”
The Terraprene-based Vision joins the ZONE3 RENEW Open Water swimwear (made from recycled bottles), and the ZONE3 YULEX range of open water swimming accessories made from a plant-based alternative to neoprene.
ZONE3 adds that it has continued to update and adapt and update its popular products, including the 100% Recycled Heat Tech Change Robe and Recycled Buoys and Tow floats, to help play a part in preserving natural environments and waterways.
