ECO SWIMSUITS

With this month’s focus on sustainable triathlon, Helen Webster tests out four eco-friendly swimsuits for off-season pool sessions

FINISTERRE ZENITH

£85 Surf-inspired brand Finisterre are certified B Corps, meaning they meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. This swimsuit is made from Econyl (from regenerated nylon fibre, such as fishing nets) and the racer-back design (in blue or red) is very comfortable and gave good support/coverage for swimming. Sizing is generous so, if you like a snugger fit, we’d suggest sizing down. finisterre.com

90 %

VERDICT SPORTY DESIGN FROM GREAT BRAND GETS OUR VOTE

DEAKIN AND BLUE

£130 Using Econyl fabric like Finisterre, all Deakin and Blue suits are UK-made in a London studio. With a focus on quality and sustainability, pulling it from the box this suit felt as high quality as its values. This ‘classic’ design is reversible (Liberty zoo print or plain black), but it’s the fit where they really excel. Each suit is sized based on both dress (8-20) and bust size (AA-HH), an innovative breath of fresh air in this market, resulting in a perfect fit. deakinandblue.com

87 %

VERDICT NOT CHEAP, BUT THIS LUXURY SUIT IS BEAUTIFULLY MADE

BATOKO WILD CAT

£50 The small business with big designs and big ideas, we’re in love with Batoko’s wildlife-inspired designs (sharks, lobsters and puffins also feature). Their suits are made from recycled plastic and they also support various projects including lobster conservation, tree planting and coral reef restoration. Plus the swimsuit? Very comfortable, flattering and, despite a low scoop back, stayed in place in our test swims. Durable too, as we’ve worn it loads! batoko.com

85 %

VERDICT STRIKING DESIGNS THAT FELT GREAT TO SWIM IN, TOO!

ZOGGS DECODER

£36 Zoggs have been producing swimwear using their ‘Ecolast’ fabric – made from recycled fishing nets and discarded nylons – for a few years now and previous suits have lived up to the durability claims. It’s nice to see a ‘big name’ company contributing to sustainability, too. As for this suit, it’s comfortable and priced well, but we didn’t get on with the T-back design, as on this tester the front kept dropping too low and it didn’t feel secure. Not keen on the shelf bra, either. zoggs.com

70 %

VERDICT NICE FABRIC LET DOWN BY OVERLYSKIMPY STRAP DESIGN