Sustainable Surfing - How to protect the oceans with AFATO Surfwear

Surfing is more than just a sport – it’s a passion and a connection to nature, especially the ocean. At AFATO Surfwear, we firmly believe that this connection also brings responsibility. That's why we are committed to sustainable surfing, so you can enjoy the waves without harming the environment.

Why is sustainable surfing important?
Although surfing is considered a nature-connected sport, the equipment we use often has negative impacts on the environment. Traditional surfboards, swimsuits, and wetsuits are made from non-recyclable materials that contain harmful chemicals. But there are alternatives – and this is where our surfwear comes into play.

Our surfwear is made from recycled and sustainable materials that are both durable and eco-friendly. With AFATO, you’re not only making the best choice for your surf session but also for the planet. Our mission is to make the switch to sustainable surf gear as easy and stylish as possible. Additionally, we partner with Healthy Seas to make a direct contribution to protecting the oceans. This organization retrieves lost fishing nets – also known as "ghost nets" – from the seas and transforms them into high-quality, sustainable materials, which are used in our surfwear.

How can you surf more sustainably?
There are many ways you, as a surfer, can have a positive impact on the environment. Here are some tips to help you surf sustainably.

1. Choose sustainable surfwear
Your gear makes a difference. At AFATO, we use innovative, eco-friendly materials that are durable and gentle on the environment. Our surf bikinis are made from a fabric crafted with ECONYL® yarn, a 100% regenerated nylon fiber made from pre- and post-consumer waste, such as fishing nets, carpets, and industrial plastics that would otherwise pollute the Earth. With our surfwear, you can not only enhance your performance but also contribute to cleaning the oceans.

2. Support beach cleanups
Trash on the beaches is not only unsightly but also endangers marine life. Get involved in beach cleanups and help keep the coasts clean. AFATO supports local initiatives that work to keep beaches clean. Together with Healthy Seas, we actively help remove lost fishing nets from the oceans, which can be deadly for many marine animals.

3. Travel responsibly
Surfing often means traveling, but it can be done in an eco-friendly way. Choose flights with lower CO2 emissions or offset your emissions. And once you’re at your destination, opt for sustainable transportation.

4. Leave no trace
The principles of "Leave No Trace" are simple but effective: Don’t leave any trash on the beach and, if possible, pick up the trash left by others. Plastic and other waste that end up on beaches and in nature are among the biggest threats to the environment. By disposing of your waste responsibly and avoiding single-use plastics, you help protect the beaches and nature.

5. Respect the ocean
The delicate ecosystem of the ocean deserves our respect. Avoid touching corals, fish, or other marine life, and be careful not to surf on fragile reefs. Corals are living organisms that grow slowly and can die from touch or damage. The ocean and its inhabitants are sensitive – let’s make sure we leave it as untouched as possible. Surf consciously so that the beauty of the underwater world remains intact.


Why sustainability is important to AFATO
As surfers, we have a special relationship with the ocean. But this ocean is under threat – from pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction. At AFATO, we believe it’s our responsibility to protect this nature. That’s why we focus on sustainable production and continually develop our surfwear to achieve the best possible balance between style, functionality, and environmental consciousness. Through our partnership with Healthy Seas, we directly contribute to cleaning the oceans and protecting nature.

Our surfwear is not just a product – it’s a statement. With AFATO, you choose high-quality, sustainable fashion that protects not only you but also the planet. And the best part? You don’t have to compromise on performance.

The ocean gives us so much – now it’s time to give something back!