March 1st, 2008

Wave Tribe offers eco-friendly surf products

DeepZine Magazine

Although the ever-sensitive ocean is the backdrop of surfi ng, the sport has never been the most eco-friendly game in town. Using toxic petrochemicals to produce everything from surfboards and wetsuits to clothing and wax, surfi ng has defi nitely left a huge footprint on the environment.

The past several years, however, have seen a real boost in the number of companies wishing to reduce that footprint and create products that surfers can use relatively guilt-free. Whether from a natural desire to do the right thing for the ocean environment that has provided so much pleasure or as a cue from successful businesses like now world-famous Patagonia, the "Green Revolution" is in full effect.

One such company that has been created in the warm, green glow of environmental consciousness is Wavetribe. Started in 2007 by longtime surfer Derek D, Wavetribe offers a full complement of eco-friendly board bags, socks, leashes and apparel-all designed to minimize dependence on petrochemicals.

The board bags are all made from hemp fabric, with recycled plastic filler material for padding. Derek, being a world traveler, added elements like a zippered wetsuit enclosure and business card pocket, to add utilitarian versatility to his product. Wavetribe's apparel is made from organic cotton, and its leashes from recycled plastic. Not wanting to be merely another insensitive apparel company bent on making dollars over making a difference, Wavetribe seeks to "create a symbiotic relationship between sport and planet."

For more information visit Wavetribe's website at www.wavetribe.com.