By Jamin Pursell

Ethics in Action: Strongsuit's Commitment to People and the Planet

In a retail swimwear market lacking inclusive options, Strongsuit™ EVERY GENDER™ Swimwear emerges as a brand dedicated to providing universally flattering, high-support, and inclusive swimwear for every body. However, Strongsuit's commitment goes beyond design. The brand's ethical production practices and planet-conscious manufacturing are key pillars of their philosophy. In this article, we will explore Strongsuit's dedication to ethical production, collaborations with manufacturers upholding high standards, and their use of sustainable fabrics like Repreve® polyester blended with Creora® long-life spandex.


Ethical Production and Manufacturing
Strongsuit places a strong emphasis on partnering with manufacturers who prioritize ethics, equity, fair pay, and sustainability. The brand collaborates with businesses that exhibit world-class standards in these areas at every level. By working with such partners, Strongsuit ensures that their production processes align with their core values and contribute positively to both people and the planet.

High-Performance, Sustainable Fabrics
One of the key elements of Strongsuit's commitment to sustainability is their use of high-performance, sustainable fabrics. Strongsuit swimsuits are made with Repreve® polyester blended with Creora® long-life spandex. Repreve® fabric is known for its ability to transform discarded PET plastic bottles and "ghost" fishing nets into comfortable and earth-friendly yarns. By utilizing Repreve® fabric, Strongsuit reduces waste, contributes to recycling efforts, and creates some of the most eco-friendly and comfortable fabrics available. Moreover, the fabric is certified by Global Recycled Standards® and Oeko-Tex® Confidence in Textile Standard 100, ensuring its quality and sustainability.

Collaboration with Manufacturers in Vietnam
Strongsuit's commitment to ethical production extends to their manufacturing and sourcing facility in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This woman-owned facility specializes in swim and activewear production. They prioritize the well-being of their workers by providing above-average wages, health insurance, social insurance, maternity leave, and employment rights. The factory maintains a safe and comfortable working environment, encourages open dialogue between directors, management, and the team, and discourages overworking and stress. Additionally, the facility focuses on sustainability by using quality, safe, and non-toxic products, sourcing from ethical and environmentally aware suppliers, and creatively recycling fabric waste for community projects.


Environmental Commitments
Strongsuit strives to minimize its environmental impact and promote sustainability throughout its operations. The brand's swimsuits are designed to be long-lasting and reflective of the slow-fashion cycle, encouraging multiple seasons of use. They use Repreve® polyester fabric, known for its enhanced pill resistance, chlorine resistance, and UV protection, ensuring durability and longevity. The brand employs environmentally conscious dyes and sublimation printing techniques to prevent fading, peeling, or cracking over time. Additionally, Strongsuit eliminates the use of individual poly bags for shipping, opting for reusable mesh wash bags. The factory also repurposes fabric remnants and packs garments for shipping using compostable carton liners instead of traditional poly liners. Strongsuit aims to establish a resale/swap/take-back e-program in the future to further extend the lifespan of their products.

Commitment
Strongsuit's commitment to ethics and sustainability is evident in every aspect of their brand. From collaborating with manufacturers who uphold world-class standards for equity, fair pay, and sustainability to their use of high-performance, sustainable fabrics like Repreve® polyester blended with Creora® long-life spandex, the brand demonstrates its dedication to people and the planet. By choosing Strongsuit swimwear, individuals can make a conscious choice to support ethical production and planet-conscious manufacturing, while also enjoying stylish and inclusive swimwear options that