There’s a moment every surf parent remembers. Maybe it’s the first time their kid stood up on a board—wobbly, wide-eyed, arms flailing like wings or maybe it’s just watching them charge the shore break, laughing, tumbling, coming up with sand in their teeth and joy in their eyes.
It’s pure magic.
But behind the scenes of those sun-soaked memories? You need the right gear. Not just something cute for a photo op, but surf wear that can handle the elements: the salt, the sun, the constant motion.
Clothes that dry quickly, stay put, and move like a second skin. Pieces that are tough enough for wipeouts and soft enough for afternoon naps on a beach towel. Gear that protects their skin—and lets their spirit shine.
From heritage labels that helped define the culture to indie brands making waves with eco-friendly fabrics and bold prints, there’s never been a better time to kit out your little surfer.
Here’s our hand-picked list of the best boys’ surf wear brands of 2025—designed for fun, function, and the future of surf.
Table of Contents
Rip Curl
Rip Curl’s been outfitting surfers since 1969—and their kids’ range is no exception. Built tough, made for movement, and always on trend, their boardshorts, wetsuits, and rash guards are made for action.
Top Picks:
- Mirage boardshorts
- Omega wetsuit (Youth)
- UV surf tees
Perfect for: Little shredders who want to match the pros.
Shop: ripcurl.com
Patagonia Kids
Patagonia brings eco-minded gear to the beach, with responsibly made surf wear for kids. Their surf tops and swimwear are built to last—and to be passed down.
Top Picks:
- Capilene Cool Daily sun shirts
- Recycled boardshorts
- Lightweight, fair-trade wetsuits
Perfect for: Conscious families who value sustainability and performance.
Shop: patagonia.com
O’Neill Youth
O’Neill invented the wetsuit—and their youth range is just as legendary. From entry-level suits to cool rash vests, they’ve got everything young surfers need to stay protected and comfortable.
Top Picks:
- Reactor wetsuit
- Youth Thermo X long sleeve
- Graphic surf shirts
Perfect for: Cold-water groms and parents seeking great value.
Shop: oneill.com
Santa Cruz
An icon of surf and skate culture, Santa Cruz offers bold, graphic-driven gear that groms love. While better known for skateboarding, their tees, hoodies, and beachwear bring serious attitude to surf style.
Top Picks:
- Screaming Hand tees
- Logo hoodies
- Comfortable skate-style socks
Perfect for: Young rippers who skate, surf, and want to stand out.
Shop: santacruzskateboards.com
Maui and Sons
A throwback surf brand that never went out of style. Maui and Sons still delivers bold, graphic gear for boys who love color, creativity, and the original surf vibe.
Top Picks:
- Retro logo board shorts
- Bright tees and tanks
- Long-sleeves shirt
Perfect for: Young surfers with big personalities and vintage tastes.
Shop: mauiandsons.com
Vissla (Youth)
Vissla’s youth line mirrors their adult gear—progressive, minimalist, and built for performance. With wetsuits and beachwear designed for movement, their gear holds up in the water and looks great on land.
Top Picks:
- High Seas wetsuit (Youth)
- Creators boardshorts
- Branded surf tees
Perfect for: Groms who appreciate clean design and quality craftsmanship.
Shop: vissla.com
Quiksilver (Youth)
Quiksilver has been a staple of surf culture since the ’70s—and their youth range captures that same salty spirit. From graphic tees to high-performance boardshorts, their kids’ gear is made for motion, mischief, and long beach days. It’s surf style that never tries too hard—just like the groms who wear it.
Top Picks:
- Everyday Swim Shorts
- UV protection rash vests
- Classic logo tees and hoodies
Perfect for:
Boys who live in boardshorts and dream about swell—whether they’re surfing it or just watching it roll in.
Shop: quiksilver.com
Final Thoughts
The waves are calling—and today’s groms are more ready than ever.
From their very first paddle-out to the moment they master their pop-up, boys need surf wear that moves with them, protects their skin, and makes them feel like they belong out there.
And the good news? There’s no shortage of awesome gear. Whether it’s a wetsuit that holds up to chilly mornings, a tee that shows off their style, or boardies built for full-send energy, the brands above have your little surfer covered.
So wax up the board. Zip up the suit. Hand them their towel and watch them run.
Because the best waves are always ahead—and they’ll want to meet them in gear that feels just right.