20 Best Surf Brands and Top Surf Clothing Brands Today
Surf brands have long been central to beach culture, shaping not just the surf industry but the sport itself. From fashionable boardshorts, surf bikinis, wetsuits, tees, hoodies, hats and other essentials to sponsoring major events and top athletes, some brands have influenced our culture for over 70 years.
Today, the surf industry is a vibrant mix of brands with various philosophies, approaches, price points, and sustainability levels. Many top brands have even transcended surfing, becoming well-known across the U.S. and expanding into extreme sports, the arts, music festivals, and other areas of pop culture.
Despite their individual successes, the core surf brands—those trusted by serious surfers for authentic surf gear—share a common foundation. These brands were created by people who live and breathe surfing, funding their passion by developing the essential gear that helps the rest of us enjoy our time in the water.
We’ve put together the ultimate list of the best surf brands from around the world to showcase the top trending surf brands today.
This comprehensive guide features over 20 of the world’s leading surf brands, ranging from long-established industry leaders to some of the freshest and most exciting names to emerge in recent years.
So, if you’re ready to cop some new surf gear, here’s everything you need to know about the best surf brands.
Exciting Emerging Surf Brands
Starting with the newest and trendiest emerging surf brands that capture the essence of surfing and have earned a spot among the best surf brands, here’s the list:
Outerknown
When Outerknown burst onto the scene, there was skepticism about whether a premium, sustainable, and ethically produced surf fashion brand could thrive in a struggling surf industry.
Founded by Kelly Slater, the world’s greatest surfer of all time and former face of Quiksilver, along with designer John Moore, Outerknown sparked significant buzz. Many wondered if Slater had made the right choice in leaving Quiksilver.
Despite the doubts, Outerknown has successfully carved out a niche for itself, representing style, comfort, and premium quality. Since its launch in 2016, the brand has become known for its commitment to sustainability and transparency.
The first season’s items, including the classic Outerknown blanket shirt, remain in great condition, and we highly recommend this brand for reducing your environmental footprint with quality apparel.
Outerknown challenges traditional surf fashion by using fabrics made from recycled fishing nets and other eco-friendly materials. It also stands out through its higher price point, reflecting its commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
With a growing influence, Outerknown has sponsored world tour events and expanded its offerings to include a women’s line in 2019. As a global citizen, Outerknown aims to connect people and ideas to continually evolve its brand vision and contribute positively to the world.
Surfcasual
It is rare to find a brand that cares so deeply about its surfing community and their well-being. Surfcasual is not just another surf brand; it’s a movement dedicated to redefining surf culture. Since its inception in 2022, Surfcasual has emerged as a beacon for those who value a positive and respectful surf community.
With a thriving social media presence of over 80k followers on Instagram, our brand stands at the forefront of a new wave in surfing — one that prioritizes empathy, thoughtful communication and mutual respect in the lineup.
Our commitment is reflected in the quality and design of our apparel. Surfcasual’s minimalist design t-shirts, sophisticated hats, versatile swim trunks and cozy hoodies are crafted to embody our core values.
These pieces aren’t just clothing — they are a statement of who you are and what you stand for as a surfer. Our goal is to create a space where aggression and violence have no place, fostering a community of maturity and respect through every interaction.
Surfcasual is dedicated to improving surf culture by promoting kindness and responsible behavior, setting a new standard for what it means to be part of the surf community.
Vissla
Founded by Paul Naude in Aliso Viejo, California, in 2013, Vissla was born out of Naude’s desire to move away from the big-box, publicly-traded model of his previous role at Billabong.
Embracing a more holistic and organic approach, he launched Vissla to align with the “ride-everything” and “surf-everything” movement.
Vissla embodies the modern ethos of surfing and riding anything, showcasing creative freedom and innovative thinking.
The brand draws inspiration from a diverse group of “creators and innovators” including scientist/shredder Cliff Kapono, big wave world champion Grant “Twiggy” Baker, photographer Jeremiah Kline and artist/shaper Thomas Campbell.
With a focus on style, function, art, and sustainability, Vissla offers a range of menswear, board shorts, and high-quality wetsuits.
The brand uses eco-friendlier neoprene and upcycled coconut fabrics to push the boundaries of sustainability while maintaining performance and style.
Vissla’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and preserving the waves we love reflects its dedication to a modern, DIY attitude within surf culture.
Deus ex Machina
Deus ex Machina represents a culture of individualism with its “bring what you’ve got” philosophy. Based in Sydney, their showroom, café, and headquarters act as a creative hub, celebrating a passion for motorcycling, surfing, skateboarding, and more.
Originally catering to motorbike enthusiasts, Deus ex Machina has since expanded its offerings to include surf gear that complements their iconic bikes and stylish clothing line.
Their surf collection features retro inspired wetsuits ideal for longboarding or single fin surfing. They also provides a great selection of apparel that ensures you look fresh, whether you’re at the beach or enjoying a night out.
Their unique aesthetic and commitment to quality make it a standout choice for those seeking a blend of style and function.
Saturday’s NYC
Saturday’s NYC is the surf brand for those who want to blend their passion for surfing with a sophisticated urban edge. Known for its effortlessly cool aesthetic, Saturday’s NYC seamlessly transitions from the streets of New York to a cafe in Sydney or a pub in Torquay.
This international surf brand has managed to straddle the line between mainstream appeal and unique style, offering clothing that’s as fitting for a New York art show as it is for a laidback surf session.
Their design philosophy revolves around understated elegance and functionality making its pieces versatile enough for various settings.
Saturday’s NYC merges high quality materials with a refined, minimalist style, catering to surfers who appreciate a subtle nod to their sport without going overboard.
This balance of style and practicality has earned it a reputation as a go to for those who want to maintain their cool, whether they’re in the city or by the sea.
Rhythm
Rhythm founded in Burleigh Heads, Australia, and is the epitome of an alternative surf brand. Their style helped create Rhythm to bridge the gap between surf culture and the broader lifestyle movement.
The brand emerged on Anzac Day 2003, driven by a vision to merge surf, art, music, and travel into a cohesive global fashion statement.
Rhythm’s influence has grown from its roots in Burleigh Heads to become a key player in the new global beach lifestyle.
The men’s line exudes understated old-school cool, while the women’s collection combines retro inspired femininity with a touch of boho chic.
Rhythm’s unique blend of surf style and creative flair makes it a favorite among globe trotters and fashion forward surfers alike, embodying the essence of a modern, adventurous lifestyle.
Howler Brothers
Founded in Austin, Texas, in 2010, Howler Brothers blends Gulf Coast roots with East Coast vibes and a touch of Costa Rican inspiration. Chase and Andy, who grew up surfing and fishing in Florida and Virginia, were deeply influenced by their surf trips to Costa Rica, where the unique, startling calls of the Howler Monkey left a lasting impression.
The name “Howler Brothers” and their brand’s vision draw from these experiences, capturing the essence of their coastal adventures.
Howler Brothers offers a limited-run collection of high-quality clothing that reflects the style and traditions of surfing and coastal sports. Their versatile products are designed for a variety of settings—from catching waves and fishing on the delta to enjoying a campfire on the beach.
Each piece embodies the spirit of a fulfilling day, whether you’re surrounded by the sounds of Howler Monkeys in Central America or reminiscing about those moments from afar.
With its rootsy, backwater vibe, Howler Brothers stands out as a unique brand in the surf industry, perfect for those who appreciate a blend of coastal charm and practical design.
Nixon
Founded in Encinitas, California, in 1997, Nixon began as a premier watch and accessories brand tailored for the youth lifestyle market. Initially focusing on custom built watches sold through specialized board sport and fashion retailers, Nixon quickly gained traction with its innovative approach to timepieces.
By 2006, their unique position as a surf watch company caught the attention of Billabong, leading to a successful partnership that helped solidify its reputation in the surf and action sports communities.
Nixon’s sponsorship of surfers, snowboarders, and tour events further cemented its status as a credible and respected brand.
In 2012, Nixon reestablished itself as an independent brand and broadened its product range beyond watches.
Today, Nixon offers a diverse selection of soft goods, leather products, custom audio items, and more. With a presence in over 90 countries, Nixon continues to focus on the details that matter, maintaining its commitment to high quality, stylish accessories for both men and women.
Roark
Founded in Orange County, California, in 2009, Roark Revival has become a standout brand for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Inspired by their love for adventure and storytelling, the brand was created to reflect a passion for exploration and the narratives that come with it.
Roark’s seasonal collections are driven by the fictional character Roark, a wanderer whose journey embodies the spirit of the brand.
Initially starting small, Roark quickly gained traction, earning shelf space in notable surf retailers such as Patagonia and Wavelengths.
Roark has always been committed to presenting surfing and surf travel authentically, offering durable and ruggedly handsome gear that suits both the surf and adventure lifestyle.
Today, Roark is at the heart of the surf and adventure subculture, driving innovation and providing an alternative aesthetic for those who love to surf and explore the world.
McTavish
Founded in 1962 in Byron Bay, Australia, by the legendary Bob McTavish, McTavish has established itself as a cornerstone of surf culture.
Known for creating some of the finest surfboards ever created, McTavish has also built a reputation for its relaxed clothing line that complements its boards perfectly. Their apparel captures the brand’s surf heritage with an effortlessly cool, laidback style.
Whether you’re heading from the beach to a coffee shop or just enjoying a casual day out, McTavish clothing seamlessly fits into your lifestyle.
Their collection features everything from comfortable tees and stylish boardshorts to cozy hoodies, all designed to reflect the easygoing beach vibe that defines the brand.
The Classic OG Surf Brands
And now, here come the OG surf brands, bringing years of respect and decades of shaping surf culture:
Billabong
What’s a list of the best surf brands without Billabong? Founded by Gordon Merchant in Burleigh Heads, Australia, in 1973, Billabong quickly evolved from crafting quality boardshorts to becoming a global phenomenon.
The brand gained massive recognition in the 1990s and early 2000s, thanks to high-profile team riders like Andy Irons and Shane Dorian, and it became synonymous with both cutting-edge surf gear and distinctive fashion.
Billabong has continued to be a major player in the surf world, sponsoring key events such as the Pipeline Masters and Fiji Pro. From its roots on Australia’s Gold Coast, Billabong expanded beyond its initial regional focus, growing into an internationally respected name known for its superior functionality and durability.
The brand also diversified through subsidiaries like Von Zipper, Honolua, Xcel, Sector 9, and RVCA, solidifying its place as a pillar of surf culture.
Rip Curl
Founded in 1969 by Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer in a garage in Torquay, Rip Curl began with a passion for shaping surfboards and soon expanded into wetsuits with the addition of Alan Greene.
Over the years, Rip Curl evolved into one of surfing’s oldest and most respected brands, becoming a global leader in wetsuits and surf apparel.
The brand’s philosophy, “Live The Search,” reflects its dedication to surf exploration and travel, which was famously highlighted by Tom Curren’s performances during the prime of his career.
Acquired by the Australasian outdoor company Kathmandu in 2019, Rip Curl continues to operate independently, distributing innovative products in over 60 countries. With a world-class roster of athletes, including Gabriel Medina, Mick Fanning, Tyler Wright, and Bethany Hamilton, Rip Curl remains at the forefront of the surf industry.
The brand’s headquarters on Torquay Highway and its sponsorship of the Bells Beach world tour event underscore its deep roots in surf culture and its ongoing support for the global surf community.
Quiksilver
In the early years of the surf industry, innovation was driven by a small group of pioneers. After Doug Warbrick, Brian Singer, and Alan Greene established Rip Curl, Alan Greene ventured out in the early 1970s to co-found Quiksilver with Warbrick and Singer as partners.
Initially focusing on board shorts, Quiksilver rapidly expanded into the world’s largest surf apparel brand, with its iconic “mountain wave” logo becoming synonymous with surfing. Their presence in the US was solidified in 1984 by Jeff Hakman and Bob McKnight, further propelled by team rider Kelly Slater.
They launched Roxy, their women’s line in 1991 which significantly contributed to the rise of women’s surfing.
Despite Kelly Slater’s departure to create Outerknown, Quiksilver continues to be a leading name in the surf industry.
Known for its high performance wetsuits and boardshorts, the brand remains committed to durability and innovation, catering to a wide range of surfing enthusiasts and maintaining its iconic status in the competitive retail space.
O’Neill
O’Neill was founded in 1952 by the legendary Jack O’Neill. Driven by his enduring passion for surfing, Jack opened the world’s first surf shop and pioneered the invention of the neoprene wetsuit, a breakthrough that revolutionized the sport by making cold water surfing possible, to those we wear till this very day.
His son, Pat O’Neill, later invented the surf leash, further solidifying the family’s impact on the sport.
Relocating to Santa Cruz in the 1960s, O’Neill quickly became a dominant force in the American surf industry, known for its innovative approach to board riding products.
From stitchless board shorts to some of the best neoprene on the market, O’Neill has consistently remained at the forefront of surf technology.
Today, the brand continues to embody its core values of innovation and progression in the action sports lifestyle, with a celebrated team of ambassadors and a legacy that remains unmatched.
RVCA
RVCA is a brand that embodies the concept of the balance of opposites. Their vision is a fusion of art, music, fashion, and modern lifestyle. This unique blend has made RVCA resonate not only with surfers but also with skaters, snow sports enthusiasts, combat athletes and urban trendsetters.
As one of the first alternative surf brands to move beyond the traditional surf ethos they have grown from a fledgling idea into an industry staple.
Despite being acquired by Billabong in 2010, RVCA has retained its grassroots authenticity and continues to stand apart from the clean cut, corporate image of other major brands.
They are relatively new compared to the other OGs, but they’ve made a huge impact on guys in their twenties and thirties who hasn’t lost their teenage spirit.
Katin
Katin’s journey began in 1954 in Surfside, California, when Walter and Nancy Katin started Kanvas by Katin, a company specializing in durable canvas boat covers. Their craftsmanship was well-known, and soon a few friends asked the Katins to make boat shorts from the same hardy material.
However, it wasn’t until a young Corky Carroll, who would become the world’s first professional surfer, requested a pair of canvas board shorts for surfing that Katin truly made its mark.
The shorts quickly gained popularity, and by the 1960s, Katin had become a staple in mainstream surf culture. Although Walter passed away in 1967, Nancy continued to run the business, outfitting some of the world’s most respected surfers, including Gerry Lopez, Shaun Thomson, and Eddie Aikau.
When Nancy passed in 1986, she left the company to Sato Hughes, their original seamstress, who continues to lead the brand from the same shop today.
Katin, known for its iconic surf trunks, has expanded into a stylish line of graphic tees, shirts, flannels, hats, and other surfer-approved apparel, all while maintaining its legacy of quality and durability.
Hurley
Hurley might have become a household name in 1999, but its origins trace back to Southern California in the early 1970s when Bob Hurley founded a surfboard and design company. In 1975, he acquired the US rights to Billabong, leading it until 1998 before deciding not to renew the rights.
The following year, Bob rebranded his original venture as Hurley International, rapidly establishing it as a major player in the surfwear industry.
Despite some changes in ownership, Hurley remains a key name in surfing, known for its high quality boardshorts and wetsuits. The brand’s innovative Phantom boardshorts have earned the SIMA “Boardshort of the Year” Award for five consecutive years. Hurley’s reputation extends to sponsoring top surfers like Kolohe Andino, Felipe Toledo, and Carissa Moore.
While initially viewed with skepticism due to its Nike affiliation, Hurley has won over the surfing community, from legendary figures like John John Florence to rising stars like Julian Wilson.
Patagonia
When Yvon Chouinard founded Patagonia in the early 1970s, the company started as a small rock climbing business, specializing in tools for climbers. Over time it evolved into a leading name in outdoor sports clothing, expanding its reach to include surfing along with its core climbing and alpine sports.
Patagonia is renowned for its commitment to ethical practices and sustainability. The company’s dedication to environmental activism is reflected in its pioneering Yulex technology and transparent supply chain.
Patagonia remains a privately owned B Corp, adhering to rigorous standards akin to those of a nonprofit organization.
From its humble beginnings to becoming a global brand, their mission is to build the best products while causing no unnecessary harm. Its ethos extends across various sports like climbing, skiing, snowboarding, surfing and beyond while promoting a minimalist, nature connected lifestyle.
Patagonia’s values and design principles echo the spirit of its founders and the silent sports community they support, emphasizing simplicity, utility and a deep bond with nature.
Volcom
Born out of a snowboarding trip to Tahoe in 1991, Volcom was the brainchild of Richard Woolcott and Tucker Hall, driven by their passion for snowboarding, skating and surfing.
Initially a garage operation, with Tucker handling sales from his bedroom in Huntington Beach and Richard setting up headquarters in Newport, Volcom quickly carved out a niche as a less mainstream, anti-establishment alternative to giants like Billabong and Quiksilver, driven by a team of anti-establishment surfers such as Noa Deane, Ryan Burch, Ozzie Wright, and others.
Embracing its punk roots and counter culture ethos, they gained traction in the early 1990s, bolstered by standout team riders like Bruce Irons.
Over the past three decades the brand has evolved from a bedroom startup into a major player in the surf industry, celebrated for its unique blend of fashion, technical apparel and a commitment to art, music, and film.
Despite its growth, Volcom has maintained its rebellious spirit and appeal to the disenchanted youth of the era.
Final Thoughts
As we’ve explored, each surf brand brings its own unique essence to the waves, from the rebellious spirit of Volcom to the elegance of Surfcasual.
Brands like Vissla, Rhythm, and RVCA each offer distinct styles and values, reflecting diverse aspects of surf culture.
When choosing a surf brand, consider which resonates most with your personality and lifestyle, while also prioritizing quality and craftsmanship.
The best choice is one that aligns with your values and complements your own surf journey, ensuring that every ride is as authentic and fulfilling as your chosen brand.