Alder Wetsuits F/W 2026 Preview

Retail Buyers Guide: Wetsuits F/W 2026 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Alder
Interviewee: Simon Neep (Sales & Product Development)

After a few seasons of (mostly) carryovers, fresh pieces were introduced in FW25. How did things pan out saleswise?
The new product introduced for Fall 2025 flew off the shelves. I believe this reflects consumer fatigue with the current lack of innovation in the market. However, this issue does not rest solely with the brand. Manufacturers themselves are showing limited innovation and development an understandable response given the uncertainty surrounding the direction of the industry.

The Fall/Winter collection is where innovations and new models come to life: which are the key additions to your range for FW26?
We continue to move forward with an element of caution; however, transitioning to eco-friendly and recycled materials remains at the forefront of our range strategy. We’re excited to explore innovative ways to incorporate sustainable and reprocessed resources wherever possible.

Most wetsuit brands contained the rise of prices so far. Will FW26 remain stable regarding pricepoints?
As previously mentioned, the shift towards a more sustainable product does come with a price tag. However, any increases will be kept to a minimum and, we believe, are justified as we move towards a greener future.

Do you notice a discrepancy between the sales ratio of premium wetsuits and entry-level ones?
We’ve identified top-end wetsuits as a key area for continued development and innovation. While we still carry over some of our entry-level products, the market remains saturated with affordable neoprene options aimed at entry-level consumers. Combined with a strong second-hand market, it’s likely to take a few more seasons for this segment to sell through. This gives us the opportunity to focus our development efforts on advancing our premium range.

The shift to non-petroleum based foam is close to the take over. Are you relying on established suppliers or developing your own proprietary technologies, as seen among some brands for a couple years?
Our current manufacturers are leaders in their field and at the forefront of technology and innovation. We have built a trusted working relationship with them over many years and therefore have no desire to change direction.

Any innovations in the linings for 2026?
Our linings have evolved to incorporate eco-friendly and recycled materials — all while maintaining the quality and warmth you expect from your Alder wetsuit

Do you notice any difference in the consumer habits of women? (wetsuit thickness, entry/closure systems, colors…)
The women’s market has unfortunately been the slowest area for sales, with the highest level of carryovers across the industry. As a result, there has been limited opportunity for new development. We’ve received increased inquiries for a premium women’s suit, and it’s a category we’re passionate about exploring. However, current market conditions are limiting our ability to move forward at this stage.

Please briefly mention the repair/recycle programs offered by your brand.
We’ve always taken pride in offering a reliable repair service — often at no cost to the customers. We’re committed to continuing this wherever possible. Through our recycling program, we also work to give repaired wetsuits a second life by offering them to charitable organizations at greatly reduced prices. This helps us reduce waste and support good causes wherever we can.

How are you helping retailers to sell more suits?
We are committed to helping our retail partners maximise their profitability. To support this, we offer bulk purchase discounts where applicable, providing retailers with greater margins and flexibility in their sales strategies. In addition, we are developing comprehensive media packs for our retail network. These packs are designed to support both our partners and our brand in enhancing social media engagement. We recognise the challenges of creating fresh, high-quality content consistently, and these resources will make it easier for retailers to maintain a strong and cohesive online presence.

Key Products:

Evo Fire MX Hooded 6.4:
The ultimate game changer in cold water surfing. Maximum four way stretch fabrics combined with extra stretch I foam. Optimized for stretch, durability and heat retention. The Eco-ID for this MX combination is limited to Limestone, Oyster shell, Aqua-alpha, dope-dye yarn and Eco carbon black. Dive deeper into the Eco-ID for Alder’s neoprene products @ aldersportswear.com
Material:
LIMESTONE FOAM THROUGHOUT MX & OYSTERSHELL FOAM ON SHOULDERS AND ARMS
SURFLEX LOWER BODY FAST DRY LINED ON TORSO ECO CARBON BLACK DOPE DYED YARNS
AQUA ALPHA WATER-BASED GLUE
Construction:
GLUED AND BLINDSTITCHED SEAMS DOUBLE LINED THROUGHOUT CONTOUR TAPED THROUGHOUT
Features:
WATERLOCK CUFFS ON WRISTS & ANKLES DURATEC KNEE PADS HIDDEN KEY LOOP BIODEGRADABLE PACKAGING

EVO_HOODED_MX_6.4

Comp CX Junior 5.4:
The latest edition chest entry Junior offering. A combination of high quality stretch outer and inner fabrics combined with extra stretch Bio foam. The Eco-ID for this CX combination is limited to Bio foam & Recycled lining fabrics. Dive deeper into the Eco-ID for Alder’s neoprene products @ aldersportswear.com
Material:
CX FOAM ON ARMS & SHOULDERS
FLOFLEX NEOPRENE ON BODY
FIRELINE ON TORSO
Construction:
GLUED AND BLINDSTITCHED SEAMS
CONTOUR TAPED
Features:
DURATEC KNEE PADS
HIDDEN KEY LOOP
BIODEGRADABLE PACKAGING

COMP_CX_JUNIOR_54_BLACK

Future 6mm Round Toe Boot:
The Future 6mm Round Toe Boot is built for ultimate warmth, comfort, and durability in cold-water conditions. Redesigned and streamlined, this is our warmest boot to date — featuring generous 6mm neoprene and a high ankle for a secure seal against water entry.
Construction: Glued and blindstitched with fully taped internal seams for long-lasting, leak-free performance.
Fit & Comfort: Adjustable ankle strap and heel pull for an easy on/off fit and secure feel.
Warmth: 6mm neoprene provides superior insulation for colder sessions.
Support: Integrated foot arch support for enhanced comfort during extended wear.
Durability: Rugged, flexible sole designed for grip and longevity.
Options: Available in both split toe and round toe versions.

ALDER_FUTURE_6MM_ROUND_TOE_BOOT_(WIDE-FIT)