Many people are concerned about whether or not their wetsuits contain latex. This is understandable, as there has been a lot of misinformation spread around the internet concerning this issue.
In addition to that, many individuals have an allergy to latex which makes it difficult for them to swim in these suits without experiencing discomfort and pain.
We will discuss what you need to know about latex-free wetsuits so that you can make an educated decision when purchasing your next suit!
Wetsuits are made of neoprene and not latex, so your latex allergy shouldn’t be impacted by the use of a wetsuit. Neoprene can be glued together by adhesives that can have reactions, there are new wetsuits made that are hypoallergenic to combat these very sensitive wearers!
As you may or may not know latex is a naturally occurring rubber whereas neoprene is a manmade material which is why some may be allergic to latex but not neoprene.
While it’s tough to develop a skin-friendly product for all (because not all allergies are the same), manufacturers have succeeded in developing a line of neoprene allergy-free, long-lasting, fair trade, and potentially hypoallergenic wetsuits.
Can You Be Allergic to Wetsuits?
Many believe that wetsuits are a form of latex but this is not the truth, they are made of neoprene, a man-made material that tends to have very limited issues with allergies.
While there are many types of allergies out there and they all react differently to things so nobody knows what will happen, it is known that neoprene does not contain latex and therefore will not cause a reaction for someone with a latex allergy.
Some wetsuits may be glued together using adhesives which can sometimes lead to allergies or reactions when in contact with skin so make sure you research the brand of the suit before buying!
Who Should Look for a Latex-Free Wetsuit?
Many individuals are concerned about whether or not their wetsuits contain latex. This is understandable, as there has been a lot of misinformation spread around the internet concerning this issue.
In addition to that, many individuals have an allergy to latex which makes it difficult for them to swim in these suits without experiencing discomfort and pain.
We will discuss what you need to know about latex-free wetsuits so that you can make an educated decision when purchasing your next suit!
Does Neoprene Contain Latex?
For many years it was believed that wetsuits were made of latex but this is incorrect.
They are actually made from neoprene which does not contain any traces of the substance, and therefore cannot cause an allergic reaction to those who have a sensitivity or allergy!
What Type of Reactions Can You Experience?
There are many different types of reactions when you come into contact with something your body isn’t taking well to including redness, swelling, itching, or burning sensations on the skin.
These symptoms vary depending on what kind of reaction your body is having, but from some experience, many people have been surprised by the amount of pain they can go through.
Is Neoprene Safe for Sensitive Skin?
For those who have sensitive skin, can neoprene be used? Many people who have a reaction to neoprene say the material is irritating and causes skin rashes.
However, some manufacturers make a special kind of neoprene that does not irritate sensitive skin while still providing all the benefits of regular neoprene.
This type of specialty neoprene has been approved by dermatologists as it doesn’t include any toxic chemicals or additives. Let’s discuss Yulex in more detail!
Yulex Wetsuits
For overall benefits to people with allergies comes a newer technology that fits into the green movement called Yulex, this makes for an ideal pairing to help cut out those materials which can cause water enthusiasts can rejoice.
Yulex is a supplier of natural solid rubber and emulsion from FSC®-certified forests, allowing its customers to make products without harmful allergies or contaminants.
Because most companies now value environmentally responsible and ethically correct materials, they love and prefer plant-based Yulex technology over neoprene.
Furthermore, Yulex works well in heat, comfort, stretch, and durability.
A “green” wetsuit has been the holy grail of environmental surf technology for decades, one of two improvements that might forever alter all water sports for the green-conscious from a guilty pleasure to a genuine environmentally aware sport.
The ugly truth, of course, is that we may never see a wetsuit entirely made of green materials. There will almost certainly be some carbon footprint involved in the manufacturing of rubber.
Final Thoughts on is There Latex in Wetsuits
Wetsuits are not made of latex, but they may be glued together with adhesives. For those who have sensitive skin, some wetsuit brands will make a special kind that does not irritate the skin while still providing all the benefits of regular neoprene.
These are made from Yulex as it doesn’t include any toxic chemicals or additives. Yulex is an amazing natural rubber that allows for a more green wetsuit creation along with helping limit the allergic reactions caused by other materials.