Why We Chose Recycled Nylon for Our Swimwear

At Bessó, every stitch tells a story — one of the ocean, of sisterhood, and of choosing better.

When we set out to create our swimwear brand, we knew from the very beginning that we didn't want to add to the problem. The fashion industry is one of the world's largest polluters, and swimwear — traditionally made from virgin synthetic fibres — is no exception. So we asked ourselves: what if your bikini could actually be part of the solution?

What Is Recycled Nylon, and Why Does It Matter?

Our swimwear is crafted from 80% recycled nylon and 20% spandex — a fabric blend that performs beautifully in the water while treading lightly on the planet. But what does "recycled nylon" actually mean?

Recycled nylon (often known by the brand name ECONYL®) is made by regenerating nylon waste — think fishing nets, fabric scraps, and industrial plastic — that would otherwise end up in landfill or our oceans. This waste is broken down and rebuilt into a high-quality yarn that's virtually identical to virgin nylon in performance, but with a dramatically lower environmental footprint.

Compared to producing virgin nylon, recycled nylon:

  • Uses significantly less water and energy
  • Reduces global warming impact by up to 90%
  • Diverts plastic waste from oceans and landfill
  • Can be recycled again and again in a closed loop

Why Not Just Use Natural Fibres?

It's a fair question. Natural fibres like cotton or linen sound appealing, but they're not well-suited to swimwear. They absorb water, lose their shape, and degrade quickly with repeated exposure to chlorine, salt, and sun. Recycled nylon, on the other hand, is built for the water — it's durable, quick-drying, and holds its shape wash after wash.

We also added UPF 50+ sun protection to every piece, so you're protected from harmful UV rays without needing to reach for the sunscreen quite so often. Better for your skin, and one less plastic bottle on the beach.

A Fabric That Celebrates Every Body

At Bessó — which means twin in Catalan, a nod to our founding sisters — we believe sustainable swimwear should never mean compromising on fit, feel, or confidence. Our recycled nylon blend moves with you, supports you, and keeps its colour and shape season after season. Because the most sustainable piece of clothing is the one you love enough to keep wearing.

The Bigger Picture

Choosing recycled nylon is just one part of our commitment to doing things differently. As twin sisters who grew up by the coast, we've always felt a deep connection to the sea. Building Bessó was our way of giving something back — creating swimwear that lets you enjoy the ocean, while helping to protect it.

We're not perfect, and we're always learning. But we believe that every conscious choice adds up. And it starts with what you wear.

Ready to make the switch to sustainable swimwear? Explore our collection — made with love, recycled nylon, and a whole lot of sisterhood.