In the coastal town of Guérande, Loire Atlantique, a group of surf enthusiasts came together with a shared passion for the ocean and a concern for the environmental impact of their beloved sport. They had noticed that thousands of wetsuits were being discarded every year, ending up in landfills or incinerators, releasing toxic fumes, and contributing to pollution. The neoprene material used in these suits has an estimated lifespan of 150 years, making it a significant contributor to waste and environmental degradation.

Determined to make a difference, they founded Néocombine in 2009, with the simple yet powerful idea of transforming discarded wetsuits into unique, hand-sewn accessories. The company's mission was to reduce waste, promote eco-friendly practices, and create sustainable products that would inspire others to join them on this journey.

In 2016, Néocombine expanded its operations to Bordeaux, a region renowned for its vibrant surf culture. This strategic move allowed the company to tap into the local surf community and further develop its artisanal production process. The result is a range of stunning bracelets that embody the essence of surfing, from the colorful designs inspired by the 1980s and 1990s to the lightweight, durable materials used.

The team at Néocombine collects used wetsuits from surfing and sailing schools involved in recycling programs. They then sort, cut, and wash the neoprene pieces by hand, preparing them for upcycling. A team of skilled artisans design patterns and logos on a computer, creating stencils for screen printing using water-based solvent-free inks.

The artisanal process is labor-intensive but rewarding, as each piece is carefully crafted to ensure the highest quality. The team sews key rings using professional sewing machines, while bracelets are hand-sewn using a closure specially developed by Néocombine that doesn't require special skills. Every item is carefully inspected before packaging and shipping to customers around the world.

As Néocombine grows, so do their collaborations with prominent surf brands like Ripcurl, Lastage, and Notox, as well as organizations like Surfrider Foundation and Coral Guardian. Together, the design exclusive products, with a portion of the profits being donated to support marine conservation efforts and other environmental initiatives. These partnerships not only raise awareness about the importance of sustainability but also provide a platform for individuals to contribute to the cause.

One of Néocombine's most notable collaborations has been with Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the world's oceans and coastlines. Together, they created a limited-edition line of upcycled wetsuit accessories, with 50% of the profits going towards supporting marine conservation efforts. This partnership helped raise awareness about the impact of plastic pollution on marine life and inspired others to take action.

Néocombine's commitment to sustainability and creativity has inspired many to rethink their relationship with waste. By giving old wetsuits a new lease on life, they demonstrate that even the most seemingly useless materials can be transformed into something valuable and meaningful. The brand's story serves as a reminder that small actions can have a significant impact when combined with creativity and determination.

Today, Néocombine is more than just a brand – it's a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the ocean and the environment. With its commitment to reducing waste, promoting sustainability, and creating unique, handmade products, Néocombine has become a beacon for those who want to make a difference.

Néocombine continues to evolve with unwavering dedication to sustainability, exploring new ways to reduce waste and create innovative products. The brand transforms unlikely materials into remarkable items, showcasing creativity and passion for the ocean. By combining function and fashion, Néocombine celebrates both sport and the environment, inspiring a new generation to join their mission to promote sustainability, reduce waste, and protect the oceans, leaving a lasting impact for future generations.