The fact that windsurfing wetsuits are made almost entirely from petroleum-based materials is one thing; the fact that certain materials in the coating and adhesives contain substances that are suspected of causing skin irritation and allergies is another. The logical step of producing a Neo with no or only a minimum of harmful substances therefore seems long overdue.
Following in the footsteps of surf label Patagonia, ProLimit is now also tackling this problem and, with the Mercury NaturePrene, is offering a neo whose material is not based on petroleum but on natural rubber, which is grown in Thailand in the immediate vicinity of the neo production site. Recycled plastic is used for the outer and inner lamination, and the adhesive is said to be free from solvents (PAHs). "As a result," explains Patrick Supper, a member of the ProLimit sales team in Kiel, "the pollution and CO2 footprint have been reduced to a minimum."
surf has already been able to try out the Mercury NaturePrene, which is available in various sizes and in 6/4 thickness, and has not identified any serious disadvantages compared to a conventional neo in terms of stretch and freedom of movement.
The NaturePrene version costs 379 euros and is therefore 50 euros more expensive than the conventional Mercury version - a surcharge that seems justifiable and well invested.
Further information under: www.prolimit.com
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
