about batoko

Batoko is a small independent swimwear brand based on the North West coast of England. We create quality swimsuits that are fun, flattering and super comfy. They're also rubbish. Literally.

Our swimwear is made from recycled plastic waste intercepted before heading for landfill. We believe that recycling plastic waste into useful and reusable products could play a huge part in the cleanup and overall reduction of plastic pollution going forward. Not only does recycling help reduce the production and consumption of more new plastic, it also helps reduce air and water pollution from landfills and marine waste. When there is an overabundance of one material - a material that will not safely biodegrade - it makes sense to stop making more of it and use what we already have.

Where It All Began

Although we were aware of litter on our local beaches, it wasn't until January 2017 when we began volunteering with a local beach clean group that our eyes were opened to the magnitude of the plastic problem in our oceans. Beach cleaning in all weathers sparked a reconnection to the wild that we hadn't even noticed we'd lost and fuelled us to find possible solutions whilst helping to raise awareness of what was still a seemingly invisible issue at that time. Our solution was to turn sea trash into sea treasure - to use bold art as both a reminder and celebration of the diverse wildlife we share this planet with and to help reconnect people with the outdoors and wild, non chlorinated waters.

Slow, Considered & Never Overproduced

We are a microbusiness consciously keeping our swimwear collection small, simple and at a much more sustainable pace that's kinder to the planet and the people that make them. This way of working allows us to focus on the individuality and longevity of each design and ensures that we never overproduce; an industry-wide problem that's having dire affects on the environment in terms of waste. But this is only half of the story. Clothing longevity cannot be determined by quality alone, but also by how it's worn, washed and dried. This is why we encourage slow and considered purchases along with proper care.

Collaborations & Fundraising

Every year we share a proportion of our profits with grassroots organisations and charities that are environment and wildlife focused. Our Buy One Set One Free collaboration with the National Lobster Hatchery is helping the European Lobster from collapse and under the sea in the French-Polynesia is our nursery table full of coral cuttings that the Coral Gardeners are currently nurturing back to health ready for transplanting onto the degrading reefs. Sales of our Seal swimsuit are also contributing to the amazing work of the Cornish Seal Sanctuary. Past fundraisers and collaborations include: Marine Conservation Society UK, Love My Beach, Surfers Against Sewage, Action For Dolphins, Mental Health Swims and The Ocean Project - the team behind World Oceans Day.

The Batoko Tribe

Our socials are dedicated to the people who make our brand what it is. A wonderful community connected through a shared love for the outdoors and joy of wild swimming.