Unlike petroleum-based neoprene, Yulex is a natural latex rubber substance that is sustainable. This article will introduce Yulex in detail to you.
Unlike petroleum-based neoprene, Yulex is a natural latex rubber substance that is sustainable. It is created using sap from the Hevea brasiliensis tree, also known as Paŕa rubber tree, native to rainforests in the Amazon region of South America. The trees are also typically grown on plantations in the tropics.
How Yulex Wetsuits Are Made
Once the natural rubber is prepped and dried into various thicknesses, it gets covered with the materials that are typically used for Yulex wetsuit linings. They often consist of graphene made from recycled fibers, recycled polyester, or recycled nylon, which are glued onto the Yulex with AquaA glue.
How Yulex Wetsuits Compare to Neoprene
Like neoprene, Yulex features plenty of elasticity which allows your body to move with flexibility and comfort without feeling too restrictive. Yulex and neoprene are both strong materials which means they are both made to withstand prolonged exposure to sun, saltwater, and sand. Extensive testing has proved that both neoprene and Yulex wetsuits offer similar insulating properties and will both keep you warm in cold water.
One area that neoprene does not compare to Yulex wetsuits is sustainability. There are several environmental drawbacks associated with neoprene, especially when it comes to how neoprene is produced. Chemical byproducts and extensive energy use are huge issues with neoprene. Also, since neoprene is not biodegradable, old wetsuits are often doomed to landfills.
Yulex wetsuits obviously have features that make them stand out among neoprene wetsuits but they might not be the right choice for everyone.
Pros:
1. Eco-friendly and sustainable.
2. Hypoallergenic and safe for those with latex sensitivities.
3. Comparable warmth and performance to neoprene.
4. Responsibly sourced materials.
5. Smaller carbon footprint to create.
Cons:
1. More expensive than neoprene wetsuits.
2. Limited options and availability, however, more brands are creating Yulex wetsuits each year.
3. Feels slightly different than neoprene, which may take some getting used to.
4. Not all Yulex wetsuits are created the same way. Some brands use different tactics for responsible sourcing and also emphasize additional environmental initiatives when making their Yulex wetsuits. Make sure to research each brand’s sustainability practices before making your choice!