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If you’ve ever taken part in watersports, you’ve probably had some experience wearing or using some sort of clothing or item made from neoprene. But is neoprene waterproof and what exactly is it?
We’ll talk about what it is and try to give you a better idea of what it’s used for. Plus, we’ll answer the all important question: is it safe?
What Is Neoprene? Why Would I Need To Use It?
Neoprene is a synthetic material, known as polychloroprene, that was chemically created in 1930 by scientists working for the DuPont company in the USA. The reason it was created was because of the high demands for natural rubber, so this was designed to be a synthetic alternative.
Neoprene is used in the manufacturing of wetsuits, waders and other accessories. The first neoprene wetsuit was invented in 1952, although there are two men who are credited with inventing it – Hugh Bradner and Jack O’Neill, with O’Neill transforming the world of surfing and creating an internationally renowned brand.
Because of the gas bubbles that exist within the neoprene it can be a good insulator, which is why it’s used on wetsuits and other watersports clothing.
When you wear it in water, a small amount of water enters through the fabric and becomes trapped there between the neoprene and your skin. It’s the water that then keeps you warm, as it’s heated by your own body heat. But for this to work the wetsuit or waders need to be tightly fitted.
Neoprene wetsuits come in different thicknesses, ranging from 2 to 5 millimeters, depending on what it’s used for. For example, the colder the water, the thicker you’ll want it and vice versa.
Is Neoprene Waterproof?
The simple answer is yes, neoprene is waterproof. It’s also resistant to oil and heat. Because of the way in which wetsuits and neoprene clothing is stitched and glued, the seams are sealed in order to give it extra resistance to water.
Video: Testing Different Types of Water Resistant Fabrics
Blind stitching is a common method of stitching seams on neoprene clothing, where the seam is stitched inside out and the stitch doesn’t go all the way through, leaving no holes on the outside. Seams are often then glued or taped for added durability.
Is It Safe? Please Tell Me It’s Not Toxic!
Neoprene is mostly safe, as it’s usually in the manufacturing of neoprene that harmful toxins can be released, and when the material is burned it can also release dangerous hydrogen chloride into the air.
Some people with skin sensitivities may report having allergic reactions after wearing neoprene, such as dermatitis. This is due to the mixed chemicals, dialkyl thioureas, which were named “allergen of the year” in 2009 because of the skin reactions caused by neoprene.
However, unless you are already allergic to neoprene, it’s generally considered to be safe to wear for most people.
Conclusion
You now know what neoprene is and how it’s made. So hopefully some of your questions about this man-made material have been answered.
You’ll find neoprene clothing and accessories everywhere when it comes to watersports because of its excellent insulating abilities and waterproof nature. For kayaking or fishing in colder environments, neoprene can be, for many, an essential material.
Remember to pass on this information to your fellow paddlers who may also have some neoprene concerns. And don’t forget to leave us a comment if there’s anything you’d like to add.
“…Neoprene is mostly safe, as it’s usually in the manufacturing of neoprene that harmful toxins can be released, and when the material is burned it can also release dangerous hydrogen chloride into the air…”
Didn’t understand this. So, what it is? It actually seems very dangerous then.
Unless you plan to manufacture or burn it then it is considered safe.
Will neoprene cord pass the Prop 65 regulations?
most likely not, carbon black in the compound is the reason why
Any product that has to come with a prop 65 warning causes me concern for my safety, but thank you for the info on Neoprene.
I am afraid of neoprene and won’t go near it. Lawsuits are coming trust me on this one, don’t say i didnt warn you
I was curious about this bcuz I ordered one for my waist to get rid of toxins can you tell me wat the dangers are your talking about bc I have lupus so it scares me to wear it evr again, best wishes n appreciate any input you can help me with about this Plzzz?
You may find neoprene material widely used on follow area:
Neoprene Koozies: Widely used as gifts for company promotion.
Neoprene Bags: Tote bags, cosmetic bags, lunch bags
Neoprene Sports Products: Neoprene sports masks, gloves, brace, waist trainer, etc.
Please reconcile:
“a small amount of water enters through the fabric ”
and
neoprene is waterproof
I wore a Compressa Sleeve on my knee. I had it on for two hours. The temperature outside was 95 degrees. I removed the sleeve and it was wet with sweat. When I removed the sleeve my knee was red and hot and blisters formed. My knee was also swollen so I had a hard time removing the sleeve. It has been two days since then and my knee is still swollen that it hurts to bend it. After putting cold compresses on my knee for two day, it is still warm, red and the blisters are still there. I do not recommend using this item. It is dangerous.