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A Guide to the Best Surf Brands in 2024

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A Guide to the Best Surf Brands in 2024

The origins of surfing stretch back to ancient Polynesia, where kings and nobles rode waves upon finless wooden boards. This ancient pursuit experienced a revival in the early 20th century, sweeping through Hawaii, California, and then later to Australia, Europe, and across the globe.

As the 1960s rolled in, surf culture flourished into a fashionable—and lucrative—lifestyle. Brands like Hang Ten and Ocean Pacific turned surfer style into fashionable apparel that anyone can wear. Parallel to this, Jack O’Neill’s invention of the neoprene wetsuit in 1952 and Rip Curl’s innovations starting in 1969 revolutionized the wetsuit industry. These pioneers transformed surfing into a year-round pursuit, even in the chilliest waters.

Today, the surf industry is a mosaic of brands serving surfers’ needs with different philosophies, approaches, price points, and levels of sustainability. From the original trailblazers to today’s trendsetters, the industry continues to innovate and evolve.

Our comprehensive guide is home to over 30 of the world’s top surf brands. It’s an odyssey through gear, boards, and apparel, featuring links, videos, and images. We have a range of guides specifically dedicated to surfboard shapers, the best surf products, and gifts for surfers, plus lots more. If you are a surf brand, please contact us to find out about partnership opportunities.

Outerknown

When Outerknown arrived on the scene, many people wondered whether a premium quality, sustainable, and ethically produced range of surf fashion could possibly survive a struggling surf industry. Sure, the brand was founded by Kelly Slater, but not everyone was convinced that he made the right move in leaving his long-time sponsor, Quiksilver.

However, Kelly and the team at Outerknown persevered, and they’ve successfully created a brand that represents style, comfort, and premium quality. At Surfd, we own items from the first Outerknown season, and they’re still in great condition. We highly recommend reducing your environmental footprint by purchasing quality apparel from this company. The Outerknown blanket shirt is a classic.

From the brand: “Outerknown explores the relationship between function, style and sustainability. As designers, it challenges us to build better, more sustainable products. As producers, it asks us to lift the lid on our supply chain, bringing the consumer along on our journey to transparency. As storytellers, it enables perpetual evolution of our brand vision. As athletes and performers, it pushes us to formerly impossible levels. As global citizens, it offers the opportunity to observe this multi-cultural world we live in and bring together seemingly unconnected people and ideas for the purpose of discovering the next Outerknown.”

On Surfd:

Patagonia

Renowned for its high-quality wetsuits and enduring fashion, Patagonia is another surf brand that prioritizes ethical practices, sustainability, and activism within the industry. Their distinctiveness lies in their meticulous attention to detail, reflected in their pioneering Yulex technology and their unwavering dedication to supply chain transparency.

Emerging from a humble beginning as a small business making tools for climbers, Patagonia has since grown into a global brand with alpinism at its core. The company’s spirit extends to a myriad of sports that connect humans and nature, from climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and surfing to fly fishing, paddling, and trail running. These silent sports, devoid of motors or cheering crowds, offer the greatest reward in the form of hard-earned grace and cherished moments of communion with nature.

Patagonia’s values are deeply embedded in the ethos of the community of climbers and surfers who started the company and who advocated a minimalist lifestyle. Their approach to product design favors simplicity and utility, mirroring the no-frills, resourceful spirit of these sports. In the timeless words of Patagonia’s founder Yvon Chouinard, “Let my people go surfing.” The book is a must-read. Evidence of their commitment to stakeholder capitalism is the world’s highest B Corp rating.

For Patagonia, the awe of wild and beautiful places transcends into a responsibility to participate in the fight to protect them and reverse the steep decline in global environmental health. Not only do they donate their time and services, but they also contribute at least 1% of their sales to grassroots environmental groups worldwide who strive to turn the environmental tide.

For more information, read our Patagonia Company Profile.

On Surfd:

Reef

Founded by Fernando and Santi in 1984, Reef stands proudly as a global leader in surf brands, celebrating over 25 years of success. The brand’s evolution from its initial focus on sandals has expanded to encompass a broad range of footwear for men, women, and children. Reef’s growth included the unveiling of a men’s clothing line in 2003, followed by a women’s swim and apparel range in 2008.

Recently, Reef has demonstrated its commitment to environmental stewardship through its Reef Redemption program, which employs green technology and promotes a culture of giving to reduce our ecological footprint. Throughout these transformations, Reef has remained true to its roots: it is a company built by surfers, inspired by the world, and dedicated to creating authentic products designed to cultivate a fulfilling life touched by surf, sensuality, and happiness.

Hurley

Specializing in high-performance surf gear, Hurley is synonymous with their signature Phantom boardshorts. Their team of brand ambassadors, featuring the likes of Filipe Toledo and Kolohe Andino, contribute to their reputation for both superior products and impressive performance.

Hurley’s ethos draws from a deep-rooted love for the ocean and its ever-changing nature. They champion inclusivity, positivity, and the realization of youthful dreams through the intersections of music and art. Their commitment to individuality and the freedom of expression sets the stage for infinite possibilities.

For more information, read our Hurley Company Profile.

Quiksilver  

With its roots firmly planted in the surf scene since Kelly Slater’s emergence in the early nineties, Quiksilver has become an iconic brand. They offer high-performance wetsuits and boardshorts, alongside a diverse range of branded fashion.

Despite Kelly Slater’s departure to create Outerknown, Quiksilver continues to innovate in the competitive retail space. The brand prides itself on crafting clothing and gear for every lifestyle, focusing on durability and performance, making it a leading choice for surfing enthusiasts worldwide.

Billabong

Billabong, an iconic surf company, became a global phenomenon with the phrase “I surf because…” In the nineties and early 2000s, they sponsored some of the most prominent surfers, creating a reputation for both technical surf gear and fashion.

Billabong remains a key sponsor for major surf events such as the Pipeline Masters and Fiji Pro. Their story began in 1973 on Australia’s Gold Coast, evolving from homemade boardshorts to an internationally recognized brand known for its superior functionality and durability.

For more information, read our Billabong Company Profile.

O’Neill

O’Neill, the original California surf, snow, and lifestyle brand, was born in 1952 from Jack O’Neill’s enduring passion for surfing. His vision of creating functional and innovative board riding products remains the brand’s cornerstone.

O’Neill has pioneered breakthroughs like the first neoprene surf wetsuit and stitchless board shorts. Remaining faithful to its core values of innovation in style and technology, the brand has devoted itself to progressing the action sports lifestyle.

For more information, read our O’Neill Company Profile.

Xcel Wetsuits

Xcel is a pioneering brand in wetsuit technology, offering state-of-the-art materials and linings for cold-water surfers. Born and raised on Oahu’s North Shore, Xcel has been a core wetsuit brand offering premium wetsuit technology, accessories, and sun protection since 1982.

For more information, read our Xcel Wetsuits Company Profile.

On Surfd:

RVCA

Pronounced “Rew-Ca”, RVCA is a brand that thrives on the balance of opposites. Co-founders PM Tenore and Conan Hayes envisioned a brand that amalgamated art, music, fashion, and modern lifestyle. Transcending action sports, RVCA resonates deeply with surfers, skaters, snow sports enthusiasts, combat athletes, and urban trendsetters.

RVCA not only offers cutting-edge fashion but also functional apparel and accessories that serve as a unique identifier for subcultures and individual pursuits.

For more information, read our RVCA Company Profile.

Vans

Established in 1966, Vans is an American footwear manufacturer known for embodying authenticity in youth lifestyle, music, and action sports. Beyond shoes, the brand extends to apparel and various products like T-shirts, hoodies, socks, hats, and backpacks. Vans has become a symbol of style and comfort, resonating with those seeking expression and freedom.

For more information, read our Vans Company Profile.

Volcom

Conceived during a snowboarding trip to Tahoe in 1991, Volcom was born from the passions of Richard Woolcott and Tucker Hall for snowboarding, skating, and surfing. Their journey, starting from a bedroom operation, has evolved into a globally recognized brand, noted for its superior fashion and technical apparel. Staying true to its punk roots, Volcom has matured into a multifaceted company investing in art, music, and film.

For more information, read our Volcom Company Profile.

Roxy

Born in 1990, ROXY is a brand inspired by the Mountain and the Wave. With its roots in women’s specific boardshorts, ROXY empowers women to explore the world and live their dreams. Offering adventure-inspired, purpose-driven fashion, ROXY products range from swimwear, casual wear, fitness wear, and beach accessories to snow outerwear and snowboards.

Rip Curl

Founded in 1969, Rip Curl symbolizes a philosophy and lifestyle for surfers and board sport enthusiasts worldwide. Acquired by the Australasian outdoor company, Kathmandu, in 2019, Rip Curl remains an independent brand, distributing a variety of innovative products in over 60 countries. With a world-class roster of surfers, Rip Curl invites everyone to Live The Search.

For more information, read our Rip Curl Company Profile.

Channel Islands Surfboards

Since 1969, Channel Islands Surfboards has been a pioneer in the surfing industry. Over the last 43 years, it has grown from a local grassroots operation to a cutting-edge organization, catering to the world’s best surfers.

Their commitment to innovation and quality has navigated the brand through four decades of change in the surf industry.

For more information, read our Channel Islands Surfboards Company Profile.

Nixon

Nixon, founded in 1998, is a premier watch and accessories brand serving the youth lifestyle market. With a focus on improving the little things, Nixon started with a custom-built watch line sold exclusively in specialized board sport and fashion retailers. Now available in over 90 countries, Nixon’s product range has expanded to include soft goods, leather goods, custom audio products, and more.

For more information, read our Nixon Company Profile.

Dakine

Dakine celebrates those who love being on the mountain or in the water. Founded in 1979 on Maui and relocated to Hood River, Oregon, in 1986, Dakine creates gear for individuals who have made their passion for outdoor activities their life’s focus.

For more information, read our Dakine Company Profile.

Sanuk

Inspired by the Thai term for ‘Fun’, Sanuk has carved its niche as an international lifestyle brand characterized by its whimsical style, unpretentious innovation, and refreshingly offbeat humor. The brand’s chief offerings include the innovative Yoga Mat Sandal Collection and its patented “Not-A-Shoe” Sidewalk Surfers, which single-handedly spearheaded the entire closed-toe casual footwear category.

Sanuk’s alluringly unique products and unconventional worldview continue to magnetize a passionate fanbase. Boasting distribution in over 70 countries, Sanuk proudly forms part of the Deckers Outdoor Corporation.

The Critical Slide Society

Birthed in 2009 in a tranquil seaside village on the Central Coast of NSW Australia, The Critical Slide Society (TCSS) stands as a testament to an authentic creative vision. Founded by surfers and artists, Jim Mitchell and Sam Coombes, the brand represents an alternate wave in surf culture: one that eschews the spotlight for the pure bliss of a fully immersed surfing life.

TCSS collaborates with a global network of artists, photographers, designers, filmmakers, and surfers, all united by a shared inspirational vision. Renowned for its unique approach and meticulous design, the brand has twice bagged the ‘Best Boardshort’ award and is now featured in esteemed retail stores worldwide.

For more information, read our TCSS Company Profile.

Globe

Globe International Limited, launched in 1985 by three Australian brothers, stands as a global powerhouse in the production and distribution of specialized apparel, footwear, and skateboard hard goods. Catering to the boardsports, street fashion, and workwear markets, Globe embodies the spirit of purpose-built innovation.

Vissla

Epitomizing the modern “surf anything” and “ride anything” ethos, Vissla is a testament to creative liberty and visionary thinking. The brand delivers innovative technical equipment and surf wear to a generation of creators and innovators.

Vissla wholeheartedly embraces the modern do-it-yourself attitude within surf culture, continually pushing the sustainable wetsuit boundaries and relentlessly aiming to reduce environmental impact. The brand beautifully melds performance, style, functionality, and the commitment to preserve the waves we love.

For more information, read our Vissla Company Profile.

Rusty

Rusty’s expansion into a full clothing range in 1987 followed its legacy of Preisendorfer’s high-quality surfboards. Rusty has evolved into one of the world’s highest-grossing surf brands, topping a unique list of companies that produce world-class surfboard hardware, covetable clothing, and accessories.

For more information, read our Rusty Company Profile.

FCS

Launched in Australia in 1992 and globally in 1994, FCS fins revolutionized surfboard design with the world’s first patented fin plug. FCS remains the world’s leading, most robust, and most extensively used surfboard fin system.

The 30 ASP World Titles and countless event victories garnered since its inception stand as a testament to FCS’s superiority over other fin systems, including traditional fixed fins.

For more information, read our FCS Company Profile.

Futures Fins

Futures Fins prides itself on being an ultimate source for superior performance surf equipment, created by surfers for surfers. Committed to pushing the boundaries of the conventional, Futures Fins continually innovates, reflected in its pioneering pre-lamination fin box and big wave fins.

Stussy

Stussy’s journey from a homemade surfboard logo in the early ’80s to an international lifestyle brand has been unlike any other. Embraced by subcultures including skaters, hip hop musicians, and punks, Stussy transcended the surf community. Limited production and distribution only enhanced its appeal, with Stussy’s graffiti-inspired logo becoming a hallmark of streetwear fashion.

For more information, read our Stussy Company Profile.

Firewire Surfboards

Firewire Surfboards is devoted to crafting high-performance surfboards and accessories with a strong focus on innovative design, materials, and construction techniques. The company seeks to minimize environmental impact while supporting global surf communities through various environmental and humanitarian organizations.

For more information, read our Firewire Company Profile.

On Surfd:

Deus Ex Machina

More than a brand, Deus ex Machina embodies a culture, embracing individualism in a ‘run-what-you-brung’ philosophy. Based in Sydney, the showroom/café/headquarters is a hub of creativity, celebrating the love for motorcycling, surfing, skateboarding, and more.

For more information, read our Deus Company Profile.

Oakley

Synonymous with active sports and lifestyle since the 1980s, Oakley has become an icon in advanced technology. Best known for its Prizm high-definition sunglass lenses, Oakley has become the preferred choice for athletes across multiple sports due to its innovative fashion and accessory ranges.

For more information, read our Oakley Company Profile.

 Von Zipper

Founded in 2000, Von Zipper is a Californian eyewear and accessories company that values lifestyle and personality. The company prides itself on its “positive declarations of rebellion,” a motto that resonates with its non-conforming customer base.

For more information, read our Von Zipper Company Profile.

Ocean & Earth

In the quaint town of Sussex Inlet, NSW, Australia, Ocean & Earth has made a name for itself as the leading manufacturer of surfboard leashes and surfboard covers. Initially established by Brian Cregan and Graham Williams, Ocean & Earth took firm roots under Brian Cregan and his partners in 1978, offering a few basic surfing products with a small workforce of three. Since then, the company has seen steady growth, setting up a retail network throughout NSW & Southern Qld in Australia.

Today, Ocean & Earth boasts an expansive product range that includes surfboard tailpads (deck grips), tie-down roof racks, boardshorts, and a variety of apparel, including snow wear, which resonates with both local and international markets.

For more information, read our Ocean & Earth Company Profile.

On Surfd: Review: Ocean&Earth Double Compact Coffin Cover

Lightning Bolt

Originating in the idyllic setting of Hawaii in the summer of 1971, Lightning Bolt was the brainchild of Gerry Lopez and Jack Shipley. Today, almost four decades later, the brand has managed to re-establish itself not just in the United States but on an international scale. The brand’s ethos embodies a philosophy where surfing is viewed more as a way of life than a sport. During the 70s, the individuals behind Lightning Bolt played a crucial role in redefining surfing as the sport and its associated lifestyle began to evolve beyond traditional boundaries.

The Bolt remains a symbol of that rebellious, mythic antihero spirit even today. Beyond the waves, Lightning Bolt is committed to technological progression, producing high-quality products for conscious surfers that balance style, quality, and utility, while supporting local manufacturing whenever possible. Despite its strong global presence and cultural influence, Lightning Bolt is poised for further growth.

For more information, read our Lightning Bolt Company Profile.

On Surfd: Lightning Bolt Celebrates 50 Years

Surflogic

Established in 2005, Surflogic stands as the global authority in surf-related innovations, delivering unmatched security and quality in every product. Specializing in wetsuit dryers, wetsuit hangers, and key security locks, the brand operates with a singular focus: to enhance the daily lives of surfers and watersport enthusiasts around the world.

Surflogic crafts premium-quality products designed to enhance the everyday experiences of both surfers and watersport enthusiasts.

On Surfd:

Howler Brothers

Founded by Chase Heard and Andy Stepanian, Howler Brothers was inspired by their shared childhood memories spent fishing and riding waves in Florida and Virginia. The name ‘Howler Brothers’ and their brand’s vision stem from the unique, startling calls of the Howler Monkey, the loudest animal in North America, which they both encountered on surf trips to Costa Rica. The call of the Howler Monkey, unsettling at first, eventually became a part of their overall experience of being in Central America, a reminder of being in a good place, doing something they loved. With this emotional connection as their foundation, Heard and Stepanian aimed to create high-quality, limited-run clothing and goods inspired by the style and traditions of surfing and coastal sports through Howler Brothers.

Their products are designed to be versatile, suitable for water, boat, and around the fire pit for storytelling, embodying the essence of a fulfilling day, whether you’re listening to Howler Monkeys from your hut or simply wishing you were.

Florence Marine X

In collaboration with 2X World Champion surfer and Olympian, John Florence, Florence Marine X is a groundbreaking brand known for its cutting-edge sport solutions. Celebrating the pioneering and innovative spirit of John Florence, the brand provides utilitarian equipment designed to excel in various sporting endeavors. With a focus on precision assembly and performance innovation, Florence Marine X empowers athletes to reach their full potential.

Each of these surf brands brings its unique story, values, and products to the surfing community, catering to surfers and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.