At Prolimit, safety, performance, and sustainability go hand-in-hand. If you’ve ever noticed the CE label inside your wetsuit and wondered what it means or why it matters, you are at the right place. Knowing about CE certification helps you understand why you should choose a CE-certified wetsuit. Let’s take a closer look at why this certification matters and its legally required.
What is CE Certification and why does it matter?
The CE (Conformité Européenne) mark is more than just a logo in your wetsuit. It means your wetsuit meets strict European safety and performance standards and can be legally sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).
CE certification falls under the EU Regulation 2016/425, as published on our website. Prolimit wetsuits are tested as surface water sports suits. For wetsuits, this regulation ensures they meet specific requirements in areas like insulation of the neoprene, strength of seams, stretch, durability, and material quality.
Without this certification, wetsuits are not legally allowed to be sold as protective gear in CE-regulated countries. That’s why all Prolimit wetsuits with GBS (Glued and Blind Stitched) seams are CE-certified. Prolimit wetsuits also often feature FTM (Fluid Taping Method) seams, an extra layer of protection applied over the GBS stitching. This adds durability and improves waterproofing.
What exactly is tested in a CE-Certified wetsuit?
CE certification covers several critical performance factors:
- Neoprene insulation
- Strength of seams
- Stretch of the material
- UV-A and UV-B resistance
At Prolimit, we go beyond these standards by using high-quality materials like NaturePrene2 (FSC approved) and developing technologies like Thermal Rebound™ for added warmth and comfort.
Materials that meet and exceed standards
NaturePrene2: Bio-based rubber derived from FSC-certified rubber trees.
Made from sustainably harvested rubber trees and certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), NaturePrene2 offers the same stretch, insulation, and durability as traditional neoprene, without the environmental impact. It also ensures UV and marine-grade resistance, helping our suits exceed CE standards.
Thermal Rebound™ Technology
Inspired by survival blankets, our 4-layer Thermal Rebound™ lining traps and reflects your body heat, creating a thermal barrier that fights wind chill and keeps you warmer, longer. This technology not only improves comfort, it contributes to our wetsuits' CE compliance.
How is CE Certification done?
Every step of the CE certification process is carefully documented to ensure compliance with EU safety standards. Swatches are created for all seam constructions used in the wetsuits. These swatches, along with wetsuits that are cut up in pieces, are sent to certified laboratories for testing.
These tests focus on key elements such as seam strength, flexibility, and thermal insulation. This hands-on approach ensures that every detail meets the strict requirements of the CE standard.
How does CE Certification benefit you?
Here’s what it means for you as a rider:
- Verified warmth and durability
- Guaranteed product quality
- Peace of mind knowing you’re protected
- Legal compliance within Europe
You can check if your wetsuit is CE-certified by looking for the CE label on the suit.
Nowadays all our GBS and FTM wetsuits proudly carry this mark.
It’s more than a label…
CE certification isn't just a legal formality. It is a promise that your Prolimit wetsuit was designed and built with the highest levels of care, safety, and responsibility, for both you and the planet.
CE certification means your wetsuit is tested for safety, warmth, and durability - and legally approved for sale in Europe. At Prolimit, every certified wetsuit is tested in a lab, and we even go beyond the standard by using eco-friendly and high-tech materials.
