Zhik extends wetsuit recycling programme

Australian sailing brand Zhik has extended its wetsuit recycling programme across Australia and New Zealand to help improve the circular life cycle of its products after disposal.

Customers in Australia and New Zealand can now place their used wetsuits in “reZhikle” boxes located in over 30 partner stores to date. Zhik says more distributors of its brand are set to sign up for the programme, expanding its reach.

Customers also have the option to purchase reZhikle boxes in a selection of sizes, to be filled with their unwanted suits, which are then collected.

Whitworth’s Marine is Australia’s largest Zhik stockist with 16 stores across Australia. General manager Nigel Curry says he’s thrilled with the scheme. “As a key distributor of Zhik in Australia, we are excited to take on the reZhikle programme, which allows customers to give a new life to their unloved wetsuits.”

Wetsuits that can’t be upcycled or donated are shredded into pieces and used to make rubber items, like shoes and outdoor playground equipment flooring, by recycling specialists, Upparel.

“We’ve been looking for a partner to help bring our reZhikle plan to life for a long time, and Upparel do a brilliant job in allowing water sports enthusiasts to build a circular product lifecycle,” says Johnny Rodgers, Zhik marketing partnerships and global sponsorship manager. “I like to think our wetsuits not only protect you in the water but can now go on to protect you on land, too.”

The brand is currently looking to extend the programme across the rest of the globe and is inviting upcycling brands to get in touch.