Lifestyle / Society

Make a splash with the best 3 wet gear brands, according to our expert

By Ása Steinars

Photo: Abysse

Nature expert Ása Steinars gives us her expert take on this season's must-have water wear

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Summer is soon in full swing, and with that, water-bound activities are high on the agenda. While we love bikinis, they aren't always up to the task when it comes to watersports. But forget bulky wetsuits - we have rounded up the labels that will let you free-dive, surf, cliff-jump or simply relax in style.

Below, we've hand-picked our the best wet gear brands for an active summer.

Abysse

The aficionados of active swimwear, Abysse strives to create hardworking products that look and feel great. On top of that, sustainability is a fundamental brand value - the label's ethos is 'produce less, produce well'. Opt for Abysse for conscious wet gear, made from recycled and environmentally conscious materials.

Abysse

Clark wetsuit

Via Net-a-Porter

The Clark wetsuit is one of our top picks from the brand. Its namesake? Eugenie Clark, also know as 'Shark Lady', an American marine biologist who pioneered the use of scuba gear to conduct underwater scientific exploration. Designed to last, the wetsuit is made with lightweight 2mm Yamamoto Japanese eco-neoprene which is moldable, resistance and retains heat.

Abysse

Lotte wetsuit

If you’re not after a full body wetsuit, then Abysse's Lotte design is a perfect choice. Minimalist yet eye-catching, the suit is made of 100% premium Japanese limestone-based neoprene and lined with recycled plastic bottles. You'll feel simultaneously stylish and prepared for the most adventurous water activities.

Perfect Moment

Founded by none other than professional skier and sports filmmaker Thierry Donard, Perfect Moment creates statement pieces designed for movement - whether skiing, surfing or swimming.

Perfect Moment

Spring houndstooth-print surf wetsuit

Via Perfect Moment

The brand's fully lined PM 1/2 Zip Spring Suit is made from a high-tech Italian fabric, Carvico, with complete UV protection. It is ideal for extreme sports with its durable material protecting you from both harsh waters and the sun's rays.

Perfect Moment

Imok Neo surf suit

Via Farfetch

Keep your wet gear rotation iconic with Perfect Moment's Imok wetsuit. The signature stripes add to the streamlined effect of the suit, which is super-flexible, durable and UV-protected.

Cynthia Rowley

After realising that most wetsuits were made from harmful plastics, American designer Cynthia Rowley knew surf wear had to be designed differently. Now, her namesake label is a leader when it comes to sustainable active swimwear. The brand's signature wetsuits and neoprene swimwear are produced using recycled materials and eco-friendly technology, while inspiring women everywhere to live life fearlessly through their swimwear.

Cynthia Rowley

Color-block neoprene-blend swimsuit

Via Net-a-Porter

The sleeveless cut of Cynthia Rowley's Byron wetsuit makes it suitable for more relaxed pool-side days too. It has a zip closure from the waist to the velcro neckline and offers SPF 50+ protection. Don't let it slip away - each suit is produced in limited-edition runs in line with its responsible production ethos.

Cynthia Rowley

Striped swimsuit

Via Net-a-Porter

Feel stylish, sporty and ready for everything. Perfect for your next beach escape, this surf-friendly style has eye-catching stripes on the long sleeves and high-cut legs for maximum movement.