Riding the Waves of Innovation: The Seasuit Project
Picture yourself charging into the sunlit waves with your surfboard. Lucky for you, you're rocking your bikini because the warm water gently kisses your legs as you wade further in and you realize the water is a balmy 86°F (30°C). It’s hot as you paddle out, but thankfully there’s a gentle wind that tosses your hair as it cools your core, arms, back, and legs.
Now, imagine you’re in that balmy 86°F water in a full wetsuit, boardshorts, rash vest, and hijab, because you’re in a country with strict laws on women covering up. Suffocating heat is what comes to my mind when I imagine trying to surf in that weather fully covered, which happens to be the exact scenario Easkey Britton found herself in when surfing in southern Iran.
If you’ve never thought of the women who can’t wear revealing bathing suits while surfing in warm water, unfortunately you wouldn’t be alone. Thankfully Finisterre’s commitment to enable access to the sea for as many groups and individuals as possible led to the Seasuit Project.
The Seasuit Project
The Seasuit is a full-coverage swimsuit designed to empower people with the choice of what they wear in the water.
An innovative product on its own, Finisterre took this concept a step further and created the Seasuit Project, a buy-one, gift-one initiative. For each Seasuit or Hijab purchased, another is donated to the Finisterre Foundation, where it will be provided to deserving applicants and partner charities. Since the Seasuit's launch, Finisterre has donated over 60 Seasuits and Hijabs to individuals experiencing financial challenges.
The Original Why
While on her trip to Iran, Easkey noticed the difficulty and extreme heat of wearing many layers in such a warm climate– leading her to realize the lack of options for women who might want to try surfing in the area.
Wearing restrictive, full-coverage clothing in the water poses more than just a risk of overheating. Hijabs, for example, become heavy when wet and can become twisted when maneuvering in the water, which can lead to safety concerns.
Thus, from this experience and a desire to further ocean access for all, the idea for the Seaside Project was born.
A Seasuit for All
As one of the main drivers of the Seasuit Project as well as a Finisterre Ambassador and Marine Social Scientist, Easkey says of the project “I think at the core of it, this is all really about how to better connect people with the sea and create an opportunity to just experience how amazing that can feel to be in water and to do and be able to pursue what you love doing.”
Designed by women for women, the goal of the Seasuit Project is to break down barriers for women and girls to access the water. That said, the Seasuit isn't only designed for individuals who need modest swimwear for cultural, religious, or modesty reasons. It also offers a supportive option for those seeking alternative swimwear due to body confidence, gender identity, cancer treatments and recovery, and more.
“The suit to me represents inclusion, freedom of choice to wear what we want when we go into the ocean” notes Shirin Gerami, Iran’s first female triathlete and a Women in Sports advocate. Though born from Britton’s experience in Iran with restrictive clothing laws, the Seasuit is made for any person who might be interested in an untraditional swimwear option.
The Design
Wetsuits and swimwear can be revealing, which in itself can be a deterrent for many to enter the water. That’s why Finisterre designed the Seasuit to be a loose-fitting swimwear alternative. The Seasuit features a geometric print that creates an optical illusion, further obscuring the body's contours.
Flatlocked seams on the Seasuit provide comfort, while the 3-panel design offers an ergonomic fit. The secure face fit ensures it stays in place, even in turbulent waters or strong winds. The Seasuit is made from SEAQUAL®YARN, 100% post-consumer recycled polyester and marine waste while also offering SPF 50+ coverage.
A Good Reason, a Good Cause
The Seasuit Project by Finisterre stands as a beacon of inclusivity and innovation in the world of swimwear. This project has transformed the concept of modest swimwear into a symbol of freedom, choice, and accessibility by combining thoughtful design with a commitment to giving back. Finisterre not only addresses the needs of women in restrictive climates but also supports a diverse range of individuals seeking alternative swimwear options. The Seasuit Project goes beyond just offering a product; it fosters a sense of community and support, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of the ocean without compromise.