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🌊 How Did Rip Curl Start? The 1969 Garage Story (2026)
Rip Curl began not in a boardroom, but in a cramped garage in Torquay, Australia, where two friends, Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer, decided to shape surfboards in March 1969. If you’ve ever wondered how did Rip Curl start, the answer lies in their rapid pivot from crafting foam boards to sewing the world’s first high-performance wetsuits just nine months later. This unlikely duo turned a $10-a-week rent in an old bakery into a global empire by solving the freezing problem that plagued surfers everywhere.
Imagine the smell of hot resin and the sound of a 1910 sewing machine chugging away in a basement while the rest of the world slept. That was the birthplace of a brand that would eventually define surf culture for over five decades. It wasn’t about marketing budgets; it was about survival in the cold and the relentless pursuit of the perfect wave.
Key Takeaways
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The Origin Story: Rip Curl was founded in 1969 by Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer in Torquay, Victoria, starting with surfboards before revolutionizing the industry with wetsuits.
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The “Big Three” Split: Co-founder Alan Green left shortly after to create Quiksilver, a rivalry that would shape the surf industry for generations.
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Inovation First: The brand’s early success was driven by adapting diving neoprene for surfing, creating the modern wetsuit that allowed surfers to ride year-round.
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Global Expansion: From a local garage, they grew into a worldwide powerhouse through the iconic Search series and the legendary Rip Curl Pro Bells competition.
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👉 Shop Rip Curl Wetsuits: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
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👉 Shop Rip Curl Boardshorts: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
- 🌊 The Humble Origins: How Two Torquay Surfers Sparked a Global Revolution
- 🛠️ From Garage to Global: The Early Days of Wetsuit Innovation
- 🧵 The Evolution of Surfwear: Boardshorts, Shirts, and the Search for the Perfect Fit
- 🏆 Key Milestones in Rip Curl History: A Timeline of Surfing Firsts
- 🌍 Expanding the Lineup: How Rip Curl Conquered the International Surf Scene
- 🏄 ♂️ The Search Series: Chasing the World’s Best Waves
- 👕 Shop By Category: Finding Your Perfect Rip Curl Gear
- 1. Wetsuits and Thermal Protection
- 2. Boardshorts and Swimwear
- 3. Surf Accessories and Apparel
- 🧠 Behind the Brand: The Culture and Community That Drives Rip Curl
- 📸 Iconic Moments: Photos and Stories That Defined an Era
- 🔍 Frequently Asked Questions About Rip Curl’s History
- ✅ Conclusion
- 🔗 Recommended Links
- 📚 Reference Links
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
Before we dive into the dusty, foam-scented archives of Torquay, let’s hit the highlights. If you’re here to understand how a pair of surfers in a garage became a global empire, here’s the cheat sheet you need:
- The Spark: It wasn’t a boardroom meeting; it was a chance encounter on Gilbert Street in March 1969.
- The Founders: Doug “Claw” Warbrick (the shaper) and Brian “Sing Ding” Singer (the science teacher turned entrepreneur).
- The First Product: Believe it or not, they started with surfboards, not wetsuits. The wetsuit revolution came just nine months later.
- The Name: “Rip Curl” wasn’t a deep philosophical statement. It was just grovy. As Warbrick put it, “ripping” was cool, and “surfing the curl” was cool.
- The Split: The original trio included Alan Green, who famously left to start Quiksilver in 1970. Yes, the two biggest rivals in surf history started in the same house!
- The Innovation: They didn’t just make gear; they invented the modern wetsuit by adapting diving neoprene for surfing, a move that changed the sport forever.
If you’re wondering how a brand that started with a $10-a-week rent in a bakery became a powerhouse, stick around. We’re about to unpack the messy, brilliant, and sometimes chaotic journey.
For more on how Rip Curl compares to its peers, check out our deep dive on What brands are similar to Quicksilver? to see where the rivalry truly began.
🌊 The Humble Origins: How Two Torquay Surfers Sparked a Global Revolution
Picture this: It’s March 1969. The sun is beating down on Torquay, Victoria, Australia. The waves are firing, but the gear? Let’s just say it was primitive. You had guys freezing their bits off in thin wool sweaters or wearing heavy, uncomfortable rubber suits meant for divers, not surfers.
Enter Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer.
Doug had just finished shaping boards for Fred Pyke, a local legend. Brian was a science teacher who, let’s be honest, probably spent more time thinking about waves than chemistry equations. They bumped into each other on Gilbert Street. No fancy business plan, no investors. Just two mates with a question: “Do you want to start making surfboards together?”
Brian didn’t hesitate. He quit teaching on the spot.
“The timing was perfect and just like that… Rip Curl was born.” — Doug Warbrick
This wasn’t just about making money; it was about surfing more. They wanted to build the best boards for the best surfers in town. But here’s the twist: they didn’t have a factory. They had a garage.
The Garage: Where It All Began
Their first “HQ” was at 35 Great Ocean Road, towards Jan Juc. It wasn’t much. They literally hammered cold chisels into the concrete floor to build stands for their equipment.
- Doug’s Role: Shaping the foam. He was churning out 4 boards a week.
- Brian’s Role: Sanding and making fins. He later described this as “the shittiest job in the world.”
But the demand was insane. Top Torquay surfers wanted their boards, and they wanted them now. The garage was too small. The smell of resin and foam was taking over the neighborhood. They needed to move.
The Bakery: A Sweet Deal
By November 1969, they packed up and moved to the Old Torquay Bakery at 5 Boston Road. The rent? A steal at $10 per week.
This move was a game-changer. They established dedicated rooms for shaping, glassing, and sanding. Production jumped to 12 boards a week. They were testing their boards in the winter swells, which Brian noted were “one of the best for surf on the reefs in memory.”
But wait, if they were so successful with boards, why did they pivot to wetsuits? That’s a story involving a third partner, a sewing machine, and a very cold winter.
🛠️ From Garage to Global: The Early Days of Wetsuit Innovation
Here’s where the legend gets real. In December 1969, a new partner joined the fray: Alan Green.
Alan wasn’t just a surfer; he was a visionary. He realized that the existing wetsuits were terrible for surfing. They were too heavy, too hot, and restricted movement. He wanted to adapt diving technology for the surfing world.
The Basement Experiment
They set up shop in the basement of a house on Beale Street, right behind the Torquay Pub. The equipment? A “Pffaf 138 zig zag” sewing machine. The material? Thick rubber sourced from Clayton, Melbourne.
They started sewing “long John” style wetsuits. But the basement was cramped, and the smell of neoprene was overwhelming. They moved operations to Warbrick’s flat at 6 Zeally Bay Road to keep the quality high and the neighbors happy.
The “Big Three” Split
In April 1970, things got complicated. Alan Green left the partnership to form Quiksilver. He took his share of the business, but in a twist of fate, he swapped his Quiksilver shares for Warbrick’s half of the land behind Bells Beach.
- The Valuation: Estimated at $50 (yes, fifty dollars).
- The Resolution: Decided by a coin toss.
Warbrick and Singer remained as equal partners in Rip Curl. Alan Green went on to create Quiksilver, which would become Rip Curl’s biggest rival. But that’s a story for another day. For now, let’s focus on how Rip Curl turned those basement wetsuits into a global phenomenon.
They acquired a “1910 Singer Up The Arm Zig Zag” machine, originally used for sewing WWII airmen’s flying boots. This beast of a machine allowed them to sew thick neoprene with precision. They sourced Rubatex neoprene from the US, which was far superior to the local stuff.
“But when that wore off and their final degeneration happened, they came to work at the Rip Curl wetsuit factory!” — Brian Singer
The factory became a hub for surfers, “drop-outs,” and anyone who loved the ocean. It wasn’t just a business; it was a lifestyle.
🧵 The Evolution of Surfwear: Boardshorts, Shirts, and the Search for the Perfect Fit
Once the wetsuit game was locked down, Rip Curl realized they needed to cover the rest of the body. Enter the boardshort.
The Boardshort Revolution
Before Rip Curl, boardshorts were often just swim trunks that fell down or ripped in the waves. Rip Curl introduced longer, more durable shorts with a velcro fly and a drawstring that actually stayed put.
They didn’t just make shorts; they made fashion. The Mirage series, launched later, would become iconic, but the early days were about functionality. They used quick-dry fabrics and reinforced stitching to withstand the brutal Australian reefs.
The Search for the Perfect Fit
Rip Curl didn’t stop at shorts. They expanded into rash guards, t-shirts, and hoodies. The goal was simple: comfort and performance.
- Rash Guards: Designed to prevent sunburn and board rash.
- T-Shirts: Made from organic cotton and recycled materials (a move that would become standard for the industry).
- Hoodies: Perfect for those chilly mornings before the sun came up.
Comparison: Early Rip Curl vs. Modern Rip Curl
| Feature | 1970s Rip Curl | Modern Rip Curl |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Thick rubber, basic neoprene | E-Beam neoprene, FlashBomb technology |
| Stitching | Flatlock, heavy-duty | Glued and Blind Stitched (GBS), seamless |
| Design | Simple, functional | Graphic-heavy, collaborative with artists |
| Sustainability | None | Recycled materials, Eco-friendly dyes |
| Fit | One-size-fits-most | Tailored fits, athletic cuts |
The evolution from a simple garage operation to a global brand is a testament to their commitment to innovation. They didn’t just follow trends; they set them.
🏆 Key Milestones in Rip Curl History: A Timeline of Surfing Firsts
Let’s break down the timeline that shaped the brand. This isn’t just a list of dates; it’s a story of firsts and breakthroughs.
1969: The Birth
- March: Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer meet on Gilbert Street.
- April: First surfboards produced in the garage.
- November: Move to the Old Torquay Bakery.
- December: Alan Green joins; first wetsuits sewn in the basement.
1970: The Split
- April: Alan Green leaves to form Quiksilver.
- Asset Division: Coin toss decides the fate of the land behind Bells Beach.
1976: The Move
- Relocation to a new facility on Gelong Road (now a medical center).
1980: The Headquarters
- Move to the current headquarters at 101 Surfcoast Highway, Torquay.
190s: The Global Expansion
- 192: Launch of the Search series, a film series that would become legendary.
- 195: Introduction of the FlashBomb wetsuit technology.
20s: The Tech Boom
- 205: Launch of the SearchGPS watch, a revolutionary tool for tracking surf sessions.
- 2010: Introduction of the Mirage boardshort line, winning multiple industry awards.
2010s: The Modern Era
- 2012-2013: Attempted sale to Bank of America Merrill Lynch (abandoned).
- 2019: Sold to Kathmandu (now KMD Brands).
- 2021: Broke Farris appointed as CEO.
🌍 Expanding the Lineup: How Rip Curl Conquered the International Surf Scene
Rip Curl didn’t stay in Australia for long. They knew that to be a global brand, they had to chase the waves around the world.
The Search Series
The Search series was more than just a marketing campaign; it was a documentary series that followed surfers to the most remote and dangerous breaks on the planet. From G-Land in Indonesia to Teahupo’o in Tahiti, the Search series put Rip Curl on the map.
- Searching for Tom Curren (196) won Video of the Year by Surfer magazine.
- The series was relaunched in 2015, continuing the legacy of adventure and exploration.
Global Events
Rip Curl didn’t just sponsor surfers; they hosted events.
- Rip Curl Pro Bells: Held at Bells Beach, Victoria, Australia. This is the longest-running professional surf competition in the world.
- Rip Curl Pro Portugal: Held at Supertubos Beach, Peniche, Portugal.
- Rip Curl Cup Padang: Held in Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia.
These events weren’t just about competition; they were about community. They brought surfers from all over the world together to celebrate the love of the ocean.
🏄 ♂️ The Search Series: Chasing the World’s Best Waves
The Search series is the heart and soul of Rip Curl’s identity. It’s not just about finding the best waves; it’s about finding yourself.
The Philosophy
The Search series is based on the idea that surfing is a journey. It’s about exploration, adventure, and discovery. The series follows surfers as they travel to the most remote and dangerous breaks on the planet, often in uninhabited islands and jungles.
The Impact
The Search series has inspired countless surfers to pack their bags and chase the waves. It’s not just a marketing campaign; it’s a lifestyle.
“There’s NO feeling in the world like catching your first wave.” — Adventurous Kate
The series has also highlighted the importance of conservation. By showcasing the beauty of the ocean, Rip Curl has raised awareness about the threats facing our seas.
👕 Shop By Category: Finding Your Perfect Rip Curl Gear
Now that you know the history, let’s talk about gear. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Rip Curl has something for you.
1. Wetsuits and Thermal Protection
Rip Curl is famous for its wetsuits. The FlashBomb series is the gold standard, offering unmatched warmth and flexibility.
- FlashBomb Heatseeker: Perfect for cold water surfing.
- FlashBomb Chest Zip: Ideal for versatility and ease of use.
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
- FlashBomb Heatseeker: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
- FlashBomb Chest Zip: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
2. Boardshorts and Swimwear
The Mirage series is the most popular boardshort line. They’re durable, comfortable, and stylish.
- Mirage MF Driven: A classic design with modern performance.
- Mirage Connor Surge: Designed for agressive surfers.
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
- Mirage MF Driven: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
- Mirage Connor Surge: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
3. Surf Accessories and Apparel
From rash guards to hoodies, Rip Curl has everything you need to stay comfortable and stylish.
- Rash Guards: Perfect for sun protection and board rash prevention.
- Hoodies: Ideal for chilly mornings and post-surf relaxation.
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
- Rash Guards: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
- Hoodies: Amazon | Rip Curl Official
🧠 Behind the Brand: The Culture and Community That Drives Rip Curl
Rip Curl isn’t just a brand; it’s a community. It’s about surfers, adventurers, and dreamers.
The Culture
The culture of Rip Curl is rooted in authenticity. They don’t just sell products; they sell a lifestyle. They support local surfers, environmental causes, and community events.
The Community
Rip Curl has a global community of surfers who share a love for the ocean. They organize events, competitions, and clean-up drives to protect the environment.
📸 Iconic Moments: Photos and Stories That Defined an Era
Throughout its history, Rip Curl has captured some of the most iconic moments in surfing.
The First Wave
The first wave caught by a Rip Curl surfer in the Search series is a legendary moment. It’s a reminder that surfing is about the journey, not just the destination.
The Bells Beach Classic
The Rip Curl Pro Bells is the longest-running professional surf competition in the world. It’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to the sport.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions About Rip Curl’s History
How much did Rip Curl sell for?
In 2019, Rip Curl was sold to Kathmandu (now KMD Brands) for an undisclosed amount. However, the brand’s valuation was estimated to be in the hundreds of millions.
Is Rip Curl owned by Billabong?
No, Rip Curl is not owned by Billabong. They are separate entities, though they are both part of the Big Three in the surf industry.
How much is Rip Curl worth?
The brand’s valuation is estimated to be in the hundreds of millions, though the exact figure is not publicly disclosed.
Who owns Rip Curl now?
As of 2021, Rip Curl is owned by KMD Brands, a New Zealand-based outdoor apparel company.
What makes Rip Curl unique?
Rip Curl is unique because of its commitment to innovation, authenticity, and community. They don’t just follow trends; they set them.
Who founded Rip Curl and where did it all begin?
Rip Curl was founded by Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer in Torquay, Victoria, Australia in 1969.
What was the first product Rip Curl ever made?
The first product Rip Curl ever made was surfboards. They later pivoted to wetsuits in 1969.
How has Rip Curl evolved since its founding in 1969?
Rip Curl has evolved from a garage operation to a global brand. They have expanded into wetsuits, boardshorts, apparel, and accessories.
What inspired the original Rip Curl logo and brand name?
The name “Rip Curl” was inspired by the grovy nature of ripping and surfing the curl. The logo was designed to be simple and recognizable.
✅ Conclusion
So, there you have it. From a garage in Torquay to a global empire, Rip Curl’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and community.
Key Takeaways:
- Rip Curl started with surfboards, not wetsuits.
- The wetsuit revolution was driven by Alan Green and Doug Warbrick.
- The Search series is the heart of the brand’s identity.
- Rip Curl is not owned by Billabong; it’s part of KMD Brands.
If you’re looking for gear that’s durable, stylish, and performance-driven, Rip Curl is the way to go. Whether you’re a beginer or a pro, they have something for you.
Final Recommendation:
If you’re serious about surfing, invest in Rip Curl. Their wetsuits, boardshorts, and accessories are top-notch. And don’t forget to support the community by participating in local events and clean-up drives.
Now, go catch some waves! 🌊🏄 ♂️
