Does Quiksilver Still Exist? The Truth Behind the Icon in 2025 🌊

You might have noticed fewer Quiksilver stores around lately and wondered, “Is this legendary surf brand still riding the wave or wiped out for good?” We get it — the surf world has seen some serious shake-ups recently, with Billabong, Volcom, and Quiksilver all making headlines for closures and bankruptcies. But here’s the kicker: Quiksilver is very much alive, just navigating a new kind of swell.

At Surf Brands™, we’ve paddled through the corporate turbulence and surfed the product lineup to bring you the full scoop. From their Aussie roots to the latest ownership shake-ups, and what you can still buy today, we cover it all. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on spotting authentic gear and where to shop now that physical stores have mostly disappeared in the U.S. Curious about how Quiksilver stacks up against Billabong and Volcom under the same corporate umbrella? We’ve got that covered too.

Ready to ride this wave of knowledge? Let’s dive in and discover why Quiksilver’s legacy isn’t just surviving — it’s evolving.

Key Takeaways

  • Quiksilver still exists in 2025 and continues to produce authentic surfwear and gear despite major U.S. retail store closures.
  • The brand is now owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG), which manages Quiksilver alongside Billabong and Volcom.
  • Most U.S. physical stores closed after the 2025 bankruptcy of the retail licensee, but products are widely available online and internationally.
  • Quiksilver remains a leader in boardshorts, wetsuits, and surf apparel, blending heritage style with modern innovation.
  • The company is making strides in sustainability, using recycled materials and ethical manufacturing practices.
  • For authentic gear, always buy from official websites and trusted retailers to avoid counterfeits.

👉 Shop Quiksilver’s latest collections:

Table of Contents

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Alright, fellow wave chasers and beach lovers! The team here at Surf Brands™ has been hearing the whispers on the wind and the chatter in the lineup: “What’s the deal with Quiksilver? Are they still around?” It’s a question that hits close to home for us. We’ve all got that one favorite pair of Quiksilver boardshorts, faded from years of sun and salt, that holds a million memories.

So, is the iconic mountain and wave logo a relic of the past, or is it still riding high? Let’s paddle out and get to the bottom of it. The answer is a bit more complex than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, and it involves corporate shake-ups, bankruptcies, and a story of survival worthy of a surf film.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Quiksilver

In a hurry to catch the next set? Here’s the lowdown on Quiksilver right now:

  • ✅ Yes, Quiksilver still exists! The brand is alive and kicking, producing the Surf Gear and apparel you know and love.
  • 🏢 New Ownership: As of 2023, Quiksilver, along with its sister brands like Roxy, Billabong, and DC Shoes, is owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG).
  • ❌ U.S. Store Closures: You’re not imagining things if you’ve seen stores disappear. The company that operated the U.S. retail stores, Liberated Brands, filed for bankruptcy in early 2025 and closed nearly all its physical locations.
  • 🛍️ Still Available: Don’t panic! You can still buy Quiksilver products directly from their official website and other major online retailers.
  • 🇦🇺 Aussie Roots: The brand was born in Torquay, Australia, back in 1969, but is now headquartered in Huntington Beach, California.
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Family of Brands: Quiksilver is part of a massive portfolio that includes Roxy, Billabong, RVCA, Von Zipper, and Element Skateboards, all under the Boardriders name, which is now owned by ABG.

🌊 The Rise and Evolution of Quiksilver: A Surf Brand Legacy

Every legendary surfer has an origin story, and so do the brands that outfit them. Quiksilver’s tale begins in 1969 in the Aussie surf mecca of Torquay. Two local surfers, Alan Green and John Law, were fed up with boardshorts that just didn’t cut it. They weren’t durable, they were uncomfortable, and they definitely weren’t stylish. So, they did what any resourceful surfer would do: they made their own.

Working out of a home garage with a A$2,500 loan from Alan’s dad, they started crafting boardshorts with new-at-the-time features like velcro flys and durable, quick-drying fabrics. The word spread like wildfire through the tight-knit surf community.

In 1973, the now-famous logo was born. Designed by Alan Green and inspired by the iconic Japanese woodblock print The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Hokusai, the cresting wave over a snow-capped mountain perfectly captured the brand’s spirit of adventure, spanning both the ocean and the mountains. It became more than a logo; it was a badge of honor for anyone living the boardriding lifestyle.

Going Global and Riding the Wave of Success

The brand’s big break came when American surfer Jeff Hakman saw the potential and secured the rights to sell Quiksilver in the U.S. in 1976. From there, it was a rocket ride to the top.

  • 1980s: Quiksilver became the face of the booming surf culture, sponsoring legendary surfers like Tom Carroll and, later, the one and only Kelly Slater.
  • 1990: Recognizing that the girls were ripping just as hard, they launched Roxy, a dedicated women’s line. It was a genius move. Roxy exploded in popularity and now accounts for a huge chunk of the company’s sales.
  • 2000s: The brand was on top of the world, expanding into skate and snow and acquiring other companies. They even bought the ski company Rossignol in 2005, though they sold it a few years later at a major loss.

This era cemented Quiksilver not just as a clothing company, but as a cornerstone of the global Surf Lifestyle. But as any surfer knows, after a great ride, a heavy wipeout can be just around the corner.

🏄‍♂️ Does Quiksilver Still Exist? Current Status and Market Presence

So, let’s tackle the big question head-on. Yes, Quiksilver absolutely still exists. But it looks a lot different than it did ten or twenty years ago. Think of it like a legendary surfer who’s had a few injuries but is still out there, adapting their style and ripping. For a deeper dive into the business side, check out our companion piece, Is Quiksilver Going Out of Business? The Truth in 2025 🌊.

The confusion is understandable. You’ve probably seen headlines about bankruptcy and store closures. Here’s the breakdown of what’s really going on:

The Big Shake-Up: Ownership Changes

The company has been through a corporate whirlwind.

  1. 2015 Bankruptcy: Quiksilver, Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This was a huge shock to the surf world.
  2. Boardriders, Inc.: After emerging from bankruptcy, the company restructured and renamed itself Boardriders, Inc. in 2017. They then went on a shopping spree, acquiring their longtime rival, Billabong, in 2018. This brought nearly all the major heritage surf brands under one roof.
  3. Authentic Brands Group (ABG) Acquisition: In 2023, the entire Boardriders portfolio was acquired by Authentic Brands Group for a cool US$1.25 billion. ABG is a massive brand management company that owns everything from Reebok to Forever 21.

The U.S. Retail Wipeout

Here’s the part that has everyone confused. In early 2025, the company that held the license to operate Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom retail stores in the U.S. — a company called Liberated Brands — filed for bankruptcy.

This led to the closure of virtually all their U.S. brick-and-mortar stores. So, if your local Quiksilver shop suddenly vanished, this is why. The company cited a “volatile global economy” and “consumer spending changes” as reasons for the financial trouble.

Crucially, this was the licensee, not the brand itself. The brands live on! New licensees, O5 Apparel for the men’s line and Velocity Global Brands for the women’s, have already taken over in North America to continue producing the gear.

🛍️ Quiksilver’s Product Range Today: Boards, Apparel, and Accessories

So what can you actually buy from Quiksilver today? The good news is, their core offerings are as strong as ever. They’re still focused on creating authentic Surf Fashion and high-performance gear.

Feature Surf Brands™ Rating (out of 10)
Design & Style 8/10
Functionality & Performance 9/10
Durability 8/10
Innovation 7/10
Overall Vibe 8.5/10

Boardshorts: The Heart and Soul

Let’s be real, it all started with boardshorts, and they are still the hero product. Quiksilver continues to innovate with materials and designs.

  • High-Performance Fabrics: They use advanced, recycled 4-way stretch materials that are lightweight, flexible, and dry in a flash.
  • Modern & Heritage Fits: Whether you like the modern, shorter scallop cut or a classic longer style, they’ve got you covered. They’re even bringing back Y2K-inspired longer boardshorts.
  • Signature Series: Look out for boardshorts designed and tested by their pro team, including legends and modern-day heroes.

Beyond the Boardshorts

While boardshorts are their legacy, Quiksilver is a full-fledged lifestyle brand. Here’s a taste of what you’ll find:

  • Wetsuits: From full suits for chilly dawn patrols to spring suits and rashguards, their wetsuit tech is top-notch, focusing on warmth, flexibility, and sustainable materials.
  • Apparel: The range is huge. Think graphic tees with iconic logos, comfortable hoodies, flannel shirts for post-surf bonfires, and walkshorts for cruising around town.
  • Accessories: They’ve got all the essentials covered, from hats and beanies to backpacks and sandals.

👉 Shop Quiksilver on:

🌍 Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives by Quiksilver

As surfers, the ocean is our playground, our church, our office. We’re stoked to see that Quiksilver is making a real effort to protect it. They’ve outlined their commitment around a few key pillars:

  • Protect our Playgrounds: This focuses on reducing their environmental impact. A huge part of this is using sustainable materials. Many of their boardshorts are now made from recycled plastic bottles. Look for their REPREVE® fabric products.
  • Respect our People: This is about ensuring ethical practices throughout their supply chain, from the factory floor to their corporate offices.
  • Reduce our Impact: This covers everything from reducing water usage in production to minimizing their carbon footprint in shipping and operations.

Is it perfect? No company is. But it’s a massive step in the right direction, and it’s something we as consumers can support with our wallets.

💼 Ownership and Corporate Changes: From Boom to Restructuring

The corporate journey of Quiksilver is as wild as a big-wave session at Nazaré. It’s a story of massive highs, crushing lows, and constant adaptation.

Year Key Event
1969 Founded in Torquay, Australia by Alan Green and John Law.
1976 U.S. license secured by Jeff Hakman.
1986 Quiksilver, Inc. goes public on the NASDAQ stock exchange.
1990 Roxy is launched, becoming a massive success.
2005 Acquires ski company Rossignol for $560 million.
2008 Sells Rossignol for just $37.5 million, a huge financial blow.
2015 Files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S.
2016 Emerges from bankruptcy under the control of Oaktree Capital Management.
2017 Parent company rebrands as Boardriders, Inc.
2018 Boardriders, Inc. acquires longtime rival Billabong Group.
2023 Authentic Brands Group (ABG) acquires Boardriders, Inc. and all its brands.
2025 U.S. retail licensee Liberated Brands files for bankruptcy, closing most U.S. stores.

This timeline shows a brand that flew incredibly close to the sun, got burned, but managed to pull out of the dive. The acquisition by ABG marks a new era, one focused on licensing and brand management rather than direct retail operations.

📈 Quiksilver vs. Competitors: Billabong, Volcom, and the Surfwear Market

For decades, the surfwear world was defined by the fierce rivalry between Quiksilver and Billabong. It was the Coke vs. Pepsi of the surf world. You were either on one team or the other. Volcom came in as the punk rock third wheel, shaking things up with a different vibe.

Isn’t it ironic, then, that they all now live under the same corporate roof at ABG?

Here’s how we see them stacking up in the modern era:

Brand Core Identity Target Audience Key Strength
Quiksilver The original, authentic, heritage surf brand. All-ages surfers, beach lifestyle enthusiasts. Legacy, brand recognition, performance boardshorts.
Billabong Passionate, artistic, and slightly more youth-focused. Younger surfers, creative types, strong female following. Strong wetsuit program, artistic collaborations.
Volcom “True to This.” A blend of surf, skate, and snow culture. Skaters, snowboarders, surfers with an edgier style. Cross-sport appeal, unique artistic direction.

While the direct competition has been neutralized by the acquisition, the brands maintain distinct identities. ABG’s strategy is to let them operate in their own lanes, appealing to slightly different segments of the boardriding community. The challenge, as noted by Liberated Brands in their bankruptcy filing, is the pressure from fast fashion and changing consumer habits. These heritage brands have to prove their value and quality are worth it.

🎯 How to Spot Authentic Quiksilver Gear: Tips for Buyers

With the shift in the retail landscape, you might be wondering how to make sure you’re getting the real deal. Here are a few tips from our team:

  1. Check the Logo: The mountain and wave logo is iconic. On fakes, it’s often poorly stitched, has incorrect proportions, or the colors are slightly off.
  2. Quality of Stitching: Flip the garment inside out. Authentic Quiksilver gear will have clean, consistent, and durable stitching. Fakes often have loose threads and sloppy seams.
  3. Tags and Labels: Look at the neck label and the care tags. They should be professionally attached and have clear, crisp printing with no spelling errors.
  4. Hardware: Zippers, buttons, and drawcord eyelets should feel substantial and often have subtle branding on them. Fakes use cheap, generic hardware.
  5. Buy from Reputable Sellers: This is the most important tip. Stick to the official Quiksilver website, major department stores, and authorized online retailers like Amazon or Zappos. If a deal on a sketchy website seems too good to be true, it probably is.

🛒 Where to Buy Quiksilver Products Now: Online and Retail Options

Okay, so the physical stores are mostly gone in the U.S. Where do you get your fix? The internet is your best friend here. The brand’s e-commerce presence is stronger than ever.

Your best bets are:

  • The Official Website: Quiksilver.com is the mothership. You’ll find the entire collection, web exclusives, and the latest sales.
  • Major Online Retailers: Big players have extensive Quiksilver collections for men and boys.
  • Surf Shops: Your local, independent surf shop will likely still carry Quiksilver. Support local!

👉 Shop Quiksilver Apparel & Gear on:

Quiksilver has always had its finger on the pulse of surf culture, and that hasn’t changed. They’re masters at blending their heritage with modern trends.

  • The Y2K Revival: What’s old is new again! Quiksilver is leaning into the nostalgia with a collection of Y2K-inspired boardshorts. Think longer lengths (20″ and 21″), bold graphics, and retro colorways. It’s a throwback to the days of surf DVDs and punk rock soundtracks, and we’re here for it.
  • Heritage Collections: They frequently release capsule collections that pull designs and logos straight from their 70s, 80s, and 90s archives. These are always a massive hit with longtime fans and new converts alike.
  • Artist Collaborations: Keep an eye out for limited-edition collections featuring work from surf artists and designers. These collabs infuse fresh energy into the brand and often sell out quickly.

💡 Insider Tips: Caring for Your Quiksilver Gear to Last Longer

You invest in good gear, so you want it to last. Here are our pro tips for keeping your Quiksilver stuff in prime condition season after season.

  • Boardshorts: This is crucial! Always rinse them in fresh, cold water immediately after a session. Saltwater is corrosive and will destroy the fabric over time. Hang them to dry in the shade, as direct sunlight will fade the colors and degrade the material. Never, ever put them in a machine dryer.
  • Wetsuits: Your wetsuit is your second skin. Treat it with respect! Rinse it thoroughly inside and out with fresh water. Use a dedicated wetsuit shampoo every few sessions to kill bacteria. Hang it to dry on a proper, thick wetsuit hanger (never a thin wire hanger!) in a well-ventilated, shady spot.
  • Tees and Hoodies: To preserve the graphics, wash them inside out in cold water and tumble dry on low heat or, even better, hang them to dry.

🤔 Common Questions About Quiksilver Answered

  • Is Roxy part of Quiksilver?
    Yes! Roxy was launched by Quiksilver in 1990 as its women’s brand. It’s now a powerhouse in its own right but remains a sister brand under the same parent company, ABG.

  • Did Quiksilver buy Billabong?
    Technically, the parent company of Quiksilver (then called Boardriders, Inc.) acquired the Billabong Group in 2018. So while they were once fierce rivals, they are now part of the same family.

  • Why can’t I find a Quiksilver store near me anymore?
    This is due to the 2025 bankruptcy of Liberated Brands, the company that ran the physical retail stores in the United States. They closed almost all locations. The brand itself is still healthy and available online.

🏆 Why Quiksilver Still Matters in the Surf and Skate Culture

In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, why does a brand like Quiksilver still resonate? Because it’s authentic. It was founded by surfers, for surfers. It has sponsored the greatest athletes, supported the biggest competitions, and provided the soundtrack and style for generations of board riders.

That logo means something. It represents a connection to the ocean, the mountains, and a lifestyle of freedom and adventure. While the corporate structure has changed, that core DNA remains. The designers and athletes involved are still passionate about the culture.

So, is Quiksilver still the undisputed king of the surf world? Maybe not. The landscape is more crowded and complex than ever. But are they still a vital, influential, and important part of that world? Absolutely. They’ve weathered the storm, and they’re still on the wave. And for that, we’re stoked.

Conclusion

After paddling through the waves of Quiksilver’s history, corporate drama, and product lineup, here’s the bottom line: Quiksilver is very much alive and kicking — just not quite in the same way as the golden days of surf shops on every corner. The brand has weathered bankruptcy, ownership changes, and the retail apocalypse, but it remains a cornerstone of surf culture worldwide.

Positives:

  • Authentic heritage and deep roots in surf culture 🌊
  • Strong, versatile product range including boardshorts, wetsuits, and apparel
  • Commitment to sustainability and ethical production
  • Backed by a powerful parent company (ABG) with resources to keep the brand alive and evolving
  • Availability online and through authorized retailers

Negatives:

  • Closure of most U.S. physical stores, limiting in-person shopping experiences
  • Corporate restructuring has led to some uncertainty among fans
  • Competition from fast fashion and new lifestyle brands pressures market share

For surfers, skaters, and beach lovers who value authenticity and quality, Quiksilver remains a highly recommended brand. Whether you’re after classic boardshorts or the latest Y2K-inspired gear, you can trust Quiksilver to deliver style and performance. Just remember to buy from reputable sources to avoid fakes and support the brand’s ongoing journey.

So, next time you see that mountain and wave logo, know it’s not just a symbol — it’s a legacy still riding the wave into the future.

👉 Shop Quiksilver Products:

Books for Surf Culture Fans:

  • “The History of Surfing” by Matt Warshaw — Amazon Link
  • “Surfing: A History of the Ancient Hawaiian Sport” by Ben R. Finney — Amazon Link
  • “Quiksilver: The Story of a Surf Brand” (if available) — Check Amazon or surf archives for brand-specific histories.

FAQ

Yes! Despite retail store closures in the U.S., Quiksilver remains a globally recognized and popular surf brand. Its products continue to be sought after for their blend of heritage style and modern performance. The brand’s presence online and in international markets keeps it relevant among surfers and lifestyle enthusiasts.

Where are Quiksilver products made today?

Quiksilver sources products globally, with manufacturing primarily in Asia, including countries like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The company emphasizes ethical production practices and sustainability initiatives, working with suppliers that meet environmental and labor standards. This global production helps maintain competitive pricing and quality.

How has Quiksilver evolved over the years?

Starting as a small Australian boardshort maker in 1969, Quiksilver grew into a global surfwear giant by the 1980s and 90s. It expanded into women’s wear with Roxy, diversified into skate and snow markets, and acquired competitors like Billabong. After financial struggles and bankruptcy in 2015, it restructured under Boardriders and was acquired by Authentic Brands Group in 2023. The brand now focuses on licensing and digital sales, adapting to the modern retail landscape.

What other surf brands compete with Quiksilver?

Major competitors include Billabong, Volcom, Rip Curl, O’Neill, and Hurley. Each has its unique style and market niche, but all cater to surf, skate, and beach lifestyle consumers. Interestingly, Billabong and Volcom are now under the same parent company as Quiksilver, ABG, which manages their distinct brand identities.

Can you buy authentic Quiksilver gear online?

Absolutely! The safest way to buy authentic Quiksilver gear is through the official Quiksilver website or reputable retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and specialty surf shops with online stores. Always check seller ratings and product reviews to avoid counterfeit items.

What is the history of Quiksilver in the surfing industry?

Quiksilver revolutionized surfwear by creating durable, functional boardshorts tailored for surfers in 1969. It helped define surf culture globally through sponsorships, iconic designs, and lifestyle marketing. Its logo is one of the most recognizable in action sports. The brand’s history is intertwined with the growth of surfing from a niche sport to a global phenomenon.

Are Quiksilver surfboards still available for purchase?

Quiksilver historically focused on apparel and accessories rather than manufacturing surfboards themselves. While they have collaborated with board shapers and sponsored surfers who ride specific boards, Quiksilver-branded surfboards are not a major product line. For boards, surfers typically look to specialist brands like Channel Islands, Firewire, or Lost Surfboards.

We hope this deep dive helped you catch the full story behind Quiksilver’s current status. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, the brand’s legacy and future remain as vibrant as ever. Stay stoked and keep riding those waves! 🌊🏄‍♂️

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