A flexible approach
Words Luke Williamson
Growing up as a sponsored surfer in the United Kingdom, Matt Burner has used a wide range of surf products. He’s come full circle and is now supporting aspiring pro surfers in New Zealand with wetsuits from his start-up, Flex Wetsuits.
Based in Waipu, Matt is using his knowledge gained from years of surfing to produce a seriously good wetsuit range. “From the age of seven, all the way up until about 22, I was a semi-professional surfer. I’ve been doing R&D for a long time,” he laughs. “In my early to mid 20’s, I trained as a carpenter and that meant I couldn’t put as much time into my surfing. Starting this company is about following my passion for the ocean and surfing,” says Matt.
Anyone who buys wetsuits will know there is a plethora of brands to choose from. So what sets Flex Wetsuits apart from the rest? “It’s literally in the name – the flexibility of our suits, I think, is second to none. I’m using Yamamoto limestone neoprene, and I've gone above and beyond to make sure my seams are as good as they can be. They’re glued, taped and blind stitched so that’s three layers of protection. The feedback I’m getting from my team riders is that they're top end.”
Matt is leading out with a summer steamer that will be suitable for all-year use in the north. That will be followed by a short-arm steamer, and then more options to follow in 2024. He’s also going to introduce a colour range that will span traditional black to brighter earthy tones. ‘We’re going to have some quite colourful suits,” says Matt with a smile. “The prices will be mid-range, but the suits are high end so great value for money.”
Flex wetsuits are available for sale on the Flex website and their social media is up and running on Instagram. “I have to thank LH Media for all the help on that,” says Matt. Aside from selling online, Matt is working hard on getting Flex Wetsuits stocked in surf shops, particularly in his home territory around Northland. And, while he’s starting small, his sights are most definitely set on becoming a global brand. “I'd love to think I can achieve that,” says Matt. “I've spent a lot of time on my research and how to start a business. I’m going to start small and see where it takes me.”
While sustainability and being eco-friendly are a challenge for any wetsuit company, it’s something Matt is passionate about when it comes to his business. “Natural neoprene uses petroleum substances, which are very harmful, whereas limestone neoprene is less harmful and lasts a lot longer,” he explains of his chosen fabric. “So, rather than wearing out a suit every year, a Flex wetsuit should last longer.”
All Flex products will be shipped using eco- friendly packaging and Matt is doing his best to make sure the suits arrive from the manufacturer with zero plastic packaging. Matt’s five-year plan is to be making Flex suits in New Zealand which will significantly reduce the business's carbon footprint. A wetsuit recycling scheme is also in the pipeline.
When you next need to purchase a wetsuit, consider Flex, not just for the excellent functionality and value of the suits, but also for the reduced impact on the environment.