Decathlon Yulex100: the first water sports suit made of 100% natural rubber

In an effort to move towards sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of water sports, Decathlon has joined forces with the North American company Yulex to develop Yulex100, the first water sports suit made from 100% natural rubber.
This innovative material, which comes from PEFC® or FSC® certified forests, is presented as an alternative to traditional neoprene, whose environmental impact has been a concern for decades.
After two years of rigorous research and more than 50 laboratory tests, Decathlon and Yulex have managed to develop Yulex100, a material that promises to revolutionize the water sports industry.
This advancement will initially be implemented in snorkeling suits and shirts for women, men and children, marking a milestone in the elimination of neoprene from the company's entire range of suits.
Anna Turrell, Director of Sustainability at Decathlon, stated: «As a company, we are committed to transforming the way we operate to minimize the impact we have on the environment.
This requires a change in our way of thinking and acting. For this reason, we are very proud to present Yulex100, a true revolution in the field of water sports that demonstrates our firm commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.».
Advantages of the Yulex100
Yulex100 offers multiple benefits compared to traditional neoprene. Among them, the 80% reduction in CO2 emissions stands out compared to neoprene foam, which allows the final product to have a decrease of between 40% and 60% in its emissions, depending on the type of suit. .
Furthermore, Yulex100 meets all the technical requirements demanded by customers, being equally light, warm, durable and elastic.
Available products
Initially, Yulex100 will be available in the following products:
- 1,5mm Women's Top: Designed to explore the coastal seabed for 35 minutes in waters over 23°C. Available in gray-green and black, with UPF 50 sun protection.
- 1,5mm Men's Top: With similar specifications to the female model, also available in grayish green and black.
- 1,5mm Kids Shorty Surf Suit: Ideal for surfing and bodyboarding in summer in waters over 21°C. Available in midnight blue/fluorescent green and smoky black/Caribbean green.
Key features
Comfort: The Yulex100 snorkel top incorporates 1,5 mm neoprene in the bust area (arms excluded), allowing you to practice comfortably for 35 minutes in waters at 23 °C.
Easy to put on and take off: The ventral zipper makes it easy to put on the top, allowing for quick and easy adjustment.
Solar protection: With UPF 50 sun protection, this top effectively protects against UV rays, crucial during long snorkeling sessions.
Freedom of movement: Fabric (polyamide/elastane) sleeves are designed not to hinder movement, offering an unrestricted snorkeling experience.
Importance of wearing a top on snorkeling trips
Using a snorkel top allows you to practice this activity for longer, thanks to the comfort provided by the neoprene foam and other components.
In addition to offering sun protection, this top does not limit movement underwater, making snorkeling trips longer and more comfortable.
Environmental impact
For decades, water sports enthusiasts have used wetsuits, despite their high environmental impact.
Although there are some alternatives on the market, such as suits made with 85% natural rubber and 15% synthetic rubber, none until now had been of 100% natural origin.
With this launch, Decathlon reinforces its commitment to sustainability and innovation, always looking for new ways to reduce its ecological footprint and promote more responsible practices in the sports industry.