Neoprene is bad. We know that. Did we know that? I think we did. But it’s been used in wetsuits for over 60 years, so we’ve somehow turned a blind eye to the necessary evil. But recently, Patagonia has changed the game, and introduced a new sustainable, and environmentally friendly replacement to the gunk.

They’ve done stuff like this before: They used recycled polyester in the linings of their suits and donated about $78 million to groups that help preserve and restore the environment. They signed Rasta. They know how to make good things, sometimes a little pricier, but this one we’re pretty excited about.

Here’s some science, sorta: Neoprene is petroleum-based. And the process of getting this nonrenewable, black sludge out of the ground is pretty shitty for the environment. And we love the environment but hate being too cold to surf. Even your most loyal tree cuddler would be apt to dawn some neoprene rubber on a February morning, right? Well, perhaps we’re now on the right track to the alternative for neoprene suits.

These new ones from Patagonia are made out of Yulex natural rubber which comes from Hevea trees on a plantation in Guatemala that is in accord with the FSC and certified by The Rainforest Alliance. Which basically ensures that this forest does not contribute to deforestation and that it helps sustain livelihoods.

The process of creating a neoprene wetsuit releases a lot of pollution into the environment. Tons of CO2. With natural rubber, these CO2 emissions are reduced by about 80%. And these earth-conscious wetties are non-irritating due to the Yulex process which removes 99% of impurities. The performance on the suit inhibits you no more than neoprene, it’s just better across the board. And the price? They’re very affordable and very functional. The new line includes 21 wetsuits for men, women and kids. Suits range from a Lightweight R1 Long John ($169) to an R5 Hooded Full Suit, meant for the coldest of water ($529).

And the real wild part? Patagonia has released this innovation to everyone. There are no licensing fees, any company can use this stuff. They just really wanna get rid of neoprene. And honestly, everyone else probably should too.

Watch the video on the process, and get out and save the world, with your wetsuit. –Gabriella Librizzi