Quiksilver innovates with sunglasses made from recycled wetsuits

Quiksilver is set to unveil a limited edition series of 150 sunglasses.

Quiksilver is set to unveil a limited edition series of 150 sunglasses on June 28, crafted from upcycled surfing wetsuits in collaboration with French eyewear producer Oceneo. This initiative marks a significant step following the launch of their Take Back program in October 2022, aimed at advancing research into product recycling systems. The program saw Quiksilver collect damaged wetsuits from six stores along the Basque and Landes coasts in France.

Pioneering recycling efforts

Quiksilver has released initial findings from its recycling research and announced its partnership with Oceneo, based in France’s Arcachon basin. Specializing in repurposing end-of-life surfing wetsuits, Oceneo transforms neoprene into sunglasses and other accessories. The flagship model Ferris has been reimagined as FerrisNeo, integrating sustainable practices into Quiksilver’s eyewear lineup.

Sustainable production process

Each wetsuit yields enough material to produce frames for four pairs of sunglasses, combining neoprene with pine resin. Supporting local industries, bio-nylon lenses are sourced from Dalloz Créations in the Jura region, while upcycled neoprene cases are crafted in Soustons by Tearing Waves. Packaging is handled in Saint-Jean-de-Luz by Donibanekopi, ensuring a fully French-made product.

Future expansion and impact

“150 pairs have been produced in the initial phase of our partnership,” Quiksilver stated in a press release. They outlined plans to expand the program, exploring broader applications of this innovative material across their product range. The initiative underscores Quiksilver’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the fashion industry.