Research
We devoted our first year to understanding regenerated fabrics, responsible sourcing and the realities behind swimwear manufacturing.
Sustainability, since 2015
Considered from the beginning.
In 2015, Manakai became one of an early group of approximately ten documented U.S. swimwear brands advancing a sustainable and ethical approach—before responsible fashion became an industry expectation.
Sustainability was not added to Manakai after the fact. It informed the materials we researched, the people we chose to work with and the way we believed swimwear should be made.
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Our first year, 2015
Test
Fabrics and prototypes were tested for fit, comfort, recovery and performance—from salt water and sun to active days outdoors.
Choose carefully
We traveled to Los Angeles, toured facilities and met their owners before choosing a small, family-owned sew house.
What guides us
Italian innovation. Chosen with intention.
Over the years, Manakai has selected fabrics from Carvico and Jersey Lomellina—Italian mills recognized for combining technical performance with regenerated materials. Some of these regenerated nylon fibers begin as discarded fishing nets recovered from the ocean before being transformed into premium performance textiles.
Each fabric is chosen not simply for its composition, but for how it feels, performs and endures.
Carvico Vita
Smooth, supportive and highly resistant, Vita combines regenerated nylon with the comfort and performance required of premium swimwear.
78% recycled polyamide · 22% elastane
JL Renew Shine
A soft regenerated fabric with a silky, subtly iridescent finish and an elegant drape.
82% recycled polyamide · 18% elastane
JL Renew Cult
Compact and opaque, with reliable coverage, shape retention and resistance to pilling and abrasion.
82% recycled polyamide · 18% elastane
JL Renew Folk
A softly structured flat rib with a refined sheen, comfortable stretch and excellent coverage.
90% recycled polyamide · 10% elastane
Why textile testing matters
Carvico and Jersey Lomellina maintain recognized textile certifications, including OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 for applicable fabrics.
This independent standard tests textiles against established limits for substances that may be harmful to human health—an especially important consideration for garments worn directly against the skin.
Certification applies to the relevant textile according to the fabric manufacturer’s current certification.
Made close. Known personally.
Manakai works with one small, family-owned sew house in Los Angeles.
We chose this partner only after visiting facilities, meeting owners and seeing the working environments firsthand. That personal approach has grown into a long-standing production relationship grounded in communication, consistency and a shared respect for quality.
Every Manakai swimsuit is cut and sewn in California.
Care is part of the story
Longevity over fast fashion.
Responsible design does not end when a swimsuit leaves our hands. How it is cared for plays an essential role in how long it lasts.
Thoughtful care helps preserve the fabric’s elasticity, color, shape and performance—allowing a well-made swimsuit to remain part of your life beyond a single season.
We believe in choosing carefully, caring for what we own and valuing quality over quantity.
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Rinse thoroughly in cool, fresh water after every wear.
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Hand wash gently with mild detergent. Never wring.
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Dry naturally away from direct sunlight and heat.
Nothing unnecessary.
We do not believe luxury requires layers of disposable packaging.
Manakai orders are presented simply in recycled kraft paper bags. There are no oversized boxes, elaborate inserts, ribbons or excessive wrapping designed only for an unboxing moment.
The experience is intentionally minimal—because what matters is the piece you chose, not what is immediately discarded around it.
Sustainability was never added to Manakai’s story. It shaped how the story began.
