Sustainability Practices at Vaikobi
PEOPLE, PLANET + PRODUCT

Vaikobi is committed to driving positive social change, environmental stewardship, and sustainable high-performance products.

Every time we paddle, sail, surf, foil, or push our limits on the ocean, we're reminded of the incredible beauty that surrounds us. This inspires our deep commitment to preserving these natural wonders - a commitment that lies at the heart of both our personal beliefs and our professional mission.

As a brand devoted to sustainability, we actively champion projects that not only nurture positive social change and protect the environment but also ensure our high-performance products remain innovative and eco-conscious.

Vaikobi's 3 Year Sustainability Strategy

Vaikobi’s sustainability strategy ensures a bold and achievable path toward leadership in marine sportswear sustainability to create a positive impact on people, product, and planet. 

Our 3-year strategy, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) will guide our team in achieving ambitious environmental and social goals aligned with global standards - exemplifying best practices in sustainable resource use and ocean conservation. With a clear vision and science-based approach, our strategy will drive meaningful actions across our operations, shaping a sustainable future for Vaikobi and the broader marine community.

Alignment with global sustainability standards

Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages, focusing on reducing mortality, improving health services, and addressing global health risks.

Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns by promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste, and encouraging sustainable business practices.

Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water
Conserve and sustainably use oceans, seas, and marine resources to prevent pollution, protect ecosystems, and address issues like overfishing and ocean acidification.

Vaikobi's Commitment to Planet
  1. Build a team of sustainability leaders and drive industry change by launching a consumer education platform on our website 
  2. Minimise environmental and ecological impact by prioritising responsible practices that support regeneration, material / product circularity, and innovation 
  3. Minimise environmental and ecological impact by implementing an environmental management system (EMS) to measure and manage waster, waste and energy use 
  4. Reduce our carbon emissions by 50% by 2030, in-line with science-based targets 
Vaikobi's Commitment TO People
  1. Contribute to the improvement of global social conditions by achieving a 100% ethically audited supply chain by 2026 and ensuring fair wages and safe conditions 
  2. Contribute to our local and global community through philanthropic endeavours, including supporting five marine-focused projects by 2027 that are focused on ocean conservation and sustainable livelihoods
  3. Build a team of knowledgeable sustainability leaders to drive industry change by implementing a policy to provide employees with two paid volunteer days per annum for marine conservation projects 
Vaikobi's Commitment To Product
  1. Minimise environmental and ecological impact by creating a preferred fibres and materials guide by 2026 
  2. Minimise environmental and ecological impact by eliminating B2C plastic packaging by 2027
  3. Minimise environmental and ecological impact by introducing a repair and reuse program by 2027 to extend product life and reduce waste
Sustainable Materials

Our biggest impact and opportunity lies in the materials we choose. Every fibre and process shapes our environmental footprint, which is why we developed a Preferred Materials Matrix to guide smarter, more sustainable design and purchasing decisions.

We carefully select materials that deliver durability and function while minimising environmental impact. By prioritising recycled, bio-based and regenerative materials, we can significantly reduce carbon emissions, energy use, and water consumption, without compromising on quality. 

We are increasing our focus on:

  • recycled materials (ECONYL®, rPET, and Bloom® foam) to reduce waste and carbon footprints,
  • bio-based materials (sugarcane-based EVA) to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, reducing emissions, and
  • certifications (Forest Stewardship Council, Fair Trade, and Global Recycling Standard) to help ensure sustainability standards and authenticity

Polyester currently accounts for 64% of Vaikobi’s material usage. Our goal is to transition to 75% recycled polyester and biodegradable polyester by 2027, and to phase out conventional polyester completely by 2028. 

Neoprene accounts for 10% of our material usage. Vaikobi neoprene products adhere to REACH compliant standards, which stands for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and restriction of Chemicals that regulates product quality. This offers peace of mind to our ocean sports community when they choose our wetsuits and steamers.

Product and materials circularity

We have a TerraCycle® drop-off box at our Warriewood Headquarters - enabling Vaikobi customers to drop off their unwanted or unused neoprene wetsuit products which are then collected, sorted, and recycled. Customers who use the TerraCycle® box receive a 10% discount on a new purchase. The Zero Waste Box System™ is an all-inclusive recycling solution that manages waste that standard household recycling services don’t accept. 

Vaikobi is committed to introducing a repair and reuse program by 2027 to extend product life and reduce waste, and we are also exploring the feasibility of a PFD foam recycling program to further reduce our environmental footprint.  

FAQs
How can I get more information about Vaikobi’s sustainability commitments or product sustainability?

We are always happy to provide our valued customers and partners with more information related to Vaikobi’s sustainability initiatives. Please email sales@vaikobi.com 

What kind of packaging does Vaikobi use?

All Vaikobi online orders are shipped using bags made from 100% plastic pollution, and no virgin plastic. The packaging brand ‘Pollastic’ works with coastal communities that are impacted by the compounding effects of pollution and poverty, to remove plastic pollution from their beaches and riverways before it reaches the ocean. It is then recycled into packaging. Pollastic is also 200% carbon offset and traceable to source. Vaikobi is committed to eliminating all single-use plastics from B2C packaging by 2027, replacing them with 100% paper or home compostable alternatives

Are sustainable materials as durable and high performing as traditional ones?

Sustainability in materials isn’t black and white, it’s about balance. Different fabrics have unique benefits and drawbacks. Plastic-based materials like polyester offer durability and performance, making them ideal for technical gear, but virgin plastics come with environmental costs. The tables are turning and it's exciting to see some bio-based and natural fibre innovations surpassing traditional fossil fuel-derived materials in performance. At Vaikobi, we’re committed to sourcing the most sustainable materials possible without compromising product performance. Every choice involves trade-offs, and we rely on our design principles and Preferred Fibres Tool to make informed, responsible decisions. Transparency is key, and we aim to make our Preferred Fibres Tool publicly available on our website soon. 

Do Vaikobi’s waterproof or weatherproof products contain harmful chemicals such as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances)?

We are working toward phasing out PFAS across our product lines, and are investing significant time and resources into piloting bio-based alternatives. However, currently some of our membranes and water-repellent finishes do contain added PFAS. 

Where are your products made, and how do you ensure ethical labor practices?

Vaikobi has a modern day slavery policy that covers forced labour, human trafficking, supply chain grievances, and supplier non-compliance. We maintain strong relationships with our overseas suppliers, visiting them at least once a year to ensure high standards are upheld. We’re proud that 100% of Vaikobi’s suppliers meet the BSCI standard, which rigorously enforces global workplace conditions and ethical practices.

Do you offer a product repair service?

Not currently, however, Vaikobi is committed to introducing a repair and reuse program by 2027 to extend product life and reduce waste. 

Can I recycle or return my used gear instead of throwing it away?

We have a TerraCycle® drop-off box at our Warriewood Headquarters - enabling Vaikobi customers to drop off their unwanted wetsuit products which are then collected, sorted, and recycled. Customers who use the TerraCycle® box receive a 10% discount on a new purchase. The Zero Waste Box System™ is an all-inclusive recycling solution that manages waste that standard household recycling services don’t accept. 

Do you have a trade-in or resale program for second-hand gear?

Not currently, however, Vaikobi is committed to introducing a repair and reuse program by 2027 to extend product life and reduce waste. We have a TerraCycle® drop-off box at our Warriewood Headquarters - enabling Vaikobi customers to drop off their unwanted wetsuit products which are then collected, sorted, and recycled. Customers who use the TerraCycle® box receive a 10% discount on a new purchase. The Zero Waste Box System™ is an all-inclusive recycling solution that manages waste that standard household recycling services don’t accept.