Is Quiksilver Still a Popular Surf Brand? 🌊

Yes—Quiksilver is still a popular, recognizable surf brand, and it continues to sell surfwear and gear. But reports of store closures can muddy the picture: a changing retail footprint doesn’t necessarily mean the brand has disappeared or lost its place in surf culture.

We’ve seen Quiksilver gear at the beach for decades, from well-worn boardshorts to fresh wetsuits heading into the lineup. The useful question isn’t just whether the name is familiar; it’s whether today’s Quiksilver products still suit your surfing, style, and budget.

Key Takeaways

  • Quiksilver remains an active surf brand with current surfwear and gear collections.
  • Store closures are not the same as a brand shutting down. Check the official store and current retailers for availability.
  • Popularity is difficult to measure from brand recognition alone. Publicly available storefronts don’t establish current market share or a definitive ranking.
  • Compare the specific product—especially fit, materials, and construction—with alternatives from Billabong, Rip Curl, Volcom, and O’Neill.

Table of Contents

Yes—Quiksilver remains a recognizable, active surf brand, with surf apparel and gear sold through its official site and other retailers. But “popular” depends on what you mean: brand recognition and continued product availability are easier to establish than current market share or sales rankings. Quiksilver does not publish enough public data on its storefront to prove it is the most popular surf brand today.

For a closer look at the company’s current status, see our guide to whether Quiksilver is still a company. We also track related labels and board-sports culture in our Surf Brand Guides and Surf Lifestyle coverage.

Quick fact What it tells you
Quiksilver continues to market surf gear and apparel The brand is still active in the surf category
Its catalog includes boardshorts and wetsuits It still serves practical surfing needs, not just casual fashion
Its official store is not an independent popularity ranking Product listings alone cannot prove market leadership
Some U.S. retail stores have faced closures Store closures do not automatically mean the brand itself has disappeared

Our quick take: Quiksilver is still a major name in surfwear, especially for recognizable boardshorts, wetsuits, and casual coastal clothing. For the best read on its current standing, look at availability, product quality, surfer feedback, and retail changes together—not one headline in isolation. 🏄

🌊 Quiksilver’s Surfing Roots and Brand History

grayscale photo of a surfboard

From Australian Surfwear Label to Global Surf Brand

Quiksilver’s story is rooted in surf culture: the company was founded in Australia in 1969 and became known for surf-specific clothing, particularly boardshorts. Over time, its identity expanded beyond the beach into skateboarding, snowboarding, and everyday apparel. Its iconic mountain-and-wave logo became recognizable well beyond lineups and surf shops.

That history still matters. A brand can be old without being relevant, but Quiksilver continues to sell gear tied directly to surfing. Its official surf range includes categories such as boardshorts and wetsuits, while its wider catalog includes casual clothing and board-sports gear. For more on gear choices, browse our Surf Gear guides.

What Happened to Quiksilver’s Parent Company and Retail Stores?

Quiksilver’s corporate history has been complicated, involving shifts in ownership and retail operations. That can make headlines about closures sound like a verdict on the brand itself. They are not necessarily the same thing.

A local news post about U.S. store closures reports that “Billabong, Quicksilver and Volcom stores in the US will close their doors.” That wording refers to stores, not proof that all brand operations, products, or online sales have ended. Retail locations can close because of a parent company’s financial or operating decisions even while a label continues through online sales, licensing, or other retail partners.

The first video’s perspective, available at the featured video, adds useful local context: it describes closures affecting surf and skate brands, the impact on Hawaii retailers, and uncertainty around specific locations. One shop owner’s broader concern is that brands founded by surfers can become corporate assets passed between larger companies. That’s a meaningful cultural criticism—but it is not evidence that Quiksilver products have vanished or that surfers have stopped buying them.

What should you trust? Treat a closure report as evidence about retail access and local impact. Check Quiksilver’s official store and current retailer listings separately before assuming the brand has shut down.


Video: The Rise and Fall of Quiksilver.








Brand Recognition, Surf Culture, and Global Reach

Quiksilver has something many newer surf labels are still building: decades of brand recognition. Its logo appears on surfwear, boardshorts, wetsuits, and casual clothing, and its name remains familiar to surfers and non-surfers alike.

The brand’s official website currently presents surf and board-sports categories, including boardshorts and wetsuits. That is evidence of ongoing commercial activity, but not an independent popularity measurement. The site does not provide a verified market ranking, current market share, or comparable sales figures. We’d rather be precise than crown a winner on vibes alone.

Quiksilver’s Place Among Modern Surf Brands

Quiksilver competes with longstanding surf labels such as Billabong, Rip Curl, Volcom, and O’Neill. It also competes with smaller surf-specific brands and outdoor labels that appeal to surfers looking for technical gear or a different style.

Popularity signal What we can infer What it cannot prove
Long-running name and recognizable logo Strong legacy awareness Current sales leadership
Active surf product categories Continued focus on surfers How many customers buy each product
Availability through retail and online channels The brand remains purchasable How it ranks against competitors
Store closures reported in some markets Retail footprint may be changing That the brand has stopped operating

To compare labels based on the gear you actually need, see our surf brand guides and surf fashion coverage.

It still has youth-oriented graphics and collections, but popularity among younger surfers varies by location, peer group, and personal style. Some gravitate toward Quiksilver’s recognizable surf heritage; others prefer independent surf shops, technical-first brands, or more minimalist clothing.

We’ve seen a familiar split at the beach: one surfer wants a bold logo and a boardshort that looks at home in a surf film; another wants a quiet, plain design and cares mainly about stretch, drying time, and fit. Neither choice is more “authentic.” For young surfers, comfort and function usually matter more after the first few sessions than the logo did in the shop.

🏄 What Quiksilver Makes: Surf Gear, Clothing, and Accessories


Video: The Rise And Fall Of Quiksilver.








Quiksilver’s product range spans technical surfwear and off-water clothing. The official site describes its surf products as high-performance gear; that is the brand’s own positioning, so we recommend checking the material details and care instructions for the specific item you’re considering.

Category Common use What to check
Boardshorts Surfing, swimming, beachwear Waist fit, stretch, seams, and closure
Wetsuits Cold-water surfing Thickness, seam construction, entry system, and fit
Rash guards Sun and abrasion protection UPF rating, sleeve length, and snugness
T-shirts and hoodies Everyday wear Fabric weight, cut, and care instructions
Jackets and snow gear Cold-weather outdoor use Waterproofing, insulation, and layering compatibility
Hats and bags Travel and daily use Fit, storage, durability, and intended activity

Wetsuits, Boardshorts, and Surf Essentials

For boardshorts, focus on movement and a secure fit. A pair that looks great on the rack but shifts while you paddle is a tiny wardrobe betrayal repeated every wave.

When you’re choosing surf gear, use this checklist:

  1. Match the product to your conditions. Boardshorts and a rash guard suit warm water; colder sessions may require a wetsuit.
  2. Check fit while moving. Raise your arms, squat, and twist. Surfing is not a standing-still sport.
  3. Inspect seams and closures. Look for details that reduce rubbing and keep the garment in place.
  4. Read the care label. Salt, sun, and heat can shorten a product’s useful life if you ignore washing and drying guidance.
  5. Prioritize the right thickness and fit in wetsuits. A suit that is too loose can flush with water; one that is too tight can restrict paddling.

For more buying advice, explore our Surf Gear section. Quiksilver’s boardshorts and wetsuits pages are useful starting points for checking current designs and product specifications.

T-Shirts, Hoodies, Jackets, and Everyday Clothing

Not everything with a wave logo needs to go in the water. Quiksilver also sells everyday surf-inspired clothing, including tees, sweatshirts, and outerwear. These products compete less on surf performance and more on fit, fabric, design, and durability.

A practical way to judge casual surfwear:

  • Check the fabric composition and garment weight.
  • Compare the size chart with a shirt or hoodie you already like.
  • Look for care instructions that suit how you actually do laundry.
  • Decide whether you want a discreet logo, a large graphic, or a vintage-inspired look.

For style ideas beyond the lineup, see our Surf Fashion and Surf Lifestyle articles.

Snowear, Skatewear, and Outdoor Gear

Quiksilver’s board-sports identity also extends into snow and outdoor clothing. The same brand name may appear on gear designed for very different conditions, so don’t assume every jacket is built for surfing or every surf layer is suitable for snow.

Before buying, check whether a product is meant for waterproofing, warmth, wind resistance, or casual layering. Those are different jobs. For snow gear in particular, review the technical specifications and layer it appropriately for your climate.

Collaborations, Collections, and Licensed Graphics

Quiksilver’s collections can include seasonal graphics, artist or music-inspired designs, and branded collaborations. These can be fun ways to wear the label, but a special graphic does not automatically mean a garment has better construction.

We’d use a simple rule: buy the design because you like it, and judge the garment by its materials and fit. The logo is the garnish; the fabric is the meal.

✅ Quiksilver Pros and Cons: What Surfers Should Know


Video: Quiksilver Moondak Watch Review at Surfboards.com.








✅ Potential advantages ❌ Potential drawbacks
Long surf heritage and broad recognition Brand recognition does not guarantee every item suits your needs
Dedicated surf categories, including boardshorts and wetsuits The official store does not independently prove popularity or quality
Broad range spanning technical gear and casual clothing A large catalog can make product-to-product quality vary
Familiar styling and easy-to-recognize designs Some surfers prefer smaller or more specialized labels
Online shopping and other retail routes may provide access Store closures can make in-person shopping harder in some areas

Our recommendation: Consider Quiksilver if you want familiar surf styling and a broad range of apparel or gear. For a technical purchase like a wetsuit, compare the product’s fit, construction, and specifications against alternatives before you commit. A well-known logo is a starting point, not a substitute for checking the suit.

🆚 Quiksilver vs. Billabong, Rip Curl, and Other Surf Brands


Video: Can The Biggest Surf Brand Of The New Millennium Make A Quality Wetsuit In 2019?








No surf label wins every category. Brand preference often comes down to the item: you might love one company’s boardshort fit and another’s wetsuit construction.

Brand What it’s widely associated with Best comparison approach
Quiksilver Surf heritage, boardshorts, and broad board-sports clothing Compare product specs, fit, and availability
Billabong Surfwear, wetsuits, and beach clothing Check the specific item and local retail access
Rip Curl Surf apparel and surf-related equipment Compare technical features and fit for your conditions
Volcom Surf, skate, and snow-inspired apparel Compare style and activity-specific construction
O’Neill Wetsuits and surf clothing Look closely at wetsuit design, sizing, and intended water temperature

Quiksilver vs. Billabong

Both brands have deep roots in surfwear and offer apparel and surf gear. Your best choice is the product that fits and performs well—not whichever label has the loudest nostalgia. Compare current boardshort or wetsuit specifications, then check recent customer feedback from retailers that publish verified reviews.

Quiksilver vs. Rip Curl

Quiksilver and Rip Curl both sell surf-oriented clothing and equipment. When choosing between their wetsuits, check the exact construction, thickness, entry system, and size chart. For boardshorts, compare stretch, waistband design, and seam placement. The product line matters more than the brand-wide reputation.

Quiksilver vs. Volcom, O’Neill, and Modern Surf Labels

Volcom is often associated with surf, skate, and snow style; O’Neill is a major wetsuit and surfwear name; newer or smaller labels may focus on particular materials, aesthetics, or local surf communities. If you value a specific fit or a more technical design, consider brands beyond the familiar names. Browse our Surf Brand Guides to compare options by category.

🛍️ Is Quiksilver Worth Buying? Quality, Fit, and Value


Video: Moments – Free Quiksilver Surf Movie!








Quiksilver can be worth buying when the specific item matches your needs and fits properly. Brand reputation alone is not enough to assess an individual product; look at materials, construction, sizing, return terms, and independent reviews.

How Quiksilver Surfwear Holds Up in the Water

For water gear, durability is a combination of fabric, seams, construction, use, and care. Even a good boardshort can wear faster if it is repeatedly left wet in a hot car. A wetsuit can feel poor if the sizing is wrong, even when the construction is sound.

After each session:

  1. Rinse with fresh water to remove salt and sand.
  2. Follow the care label rather than guessing about detergents or machine washing.
  3. Dry out of harsh direct sun when the label recommends it.
  4. Store gear fully dry to reduce odor and material stress.
  5. Check seams, closures, and elastic before your next surf.

For more gear-care and buying advice, browse our Surf Gear category.

Sizing, Materials, and Choosing the Right Gear

Use the product’s current size chart, since fit can differ between categories and seasons. If possible, compare measurements with a garment you already own. For wetsuits, a close fit is essential, but it should not prevent comfortable breathing, paddling, or movement.

If you’re buying… Prioritize… Avoid…
Boardshorts Secure waist, comfortable stretch, low-friction seams A loose waist or restrictive leg opening
Wetsuit Close fit, appropriate thickness, flexible movement Gaps that let water flush through
Rash guard Comfortable snug fit and clearly stated sun protection Excess fabric that shifts while paddling
Hoodie or jacket Layering room, fabric, and intended weather Assuming casual outerwear is technical gear

Buying New, Shopping Sales, and Finding Secondhand Quiksilver

Start with Quiksilver’s official store to confirm whether a product is currently offered and review its listed specifications. You can also compare authorized retailers and secondhand marketplaces, especially if local stores have closed.

When shopping used:

  • Check zippers, seams, stretch, and fabric condition.
  • Ask whether a wetsuit has leaks, repairs, or persistent odor.
  • Inspect boardshort waistbands and closures for wear.
  • Confirm the seller’s return policy and item condition.
  • Treat unusually low-priced listings with caution and verify the product before purchasing.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

🌱 Sustainability and Quiksilver’s Environmental Commitments


Video: Quiksilver Softboards.







Surf brands operate in an industry affected by textile production, shipping, and the short life cycles of disposable clothing. When a brand makes sustainability claims, look for specific materials, measurable targets, progress reporting, and clear product-level information rather than relying on broad green language.

For any Quiksilver product you’re considering, check its current product page for material details and care guidance. We also cover practical ocean-minded choices in our Ocean Conservation section. The most reliable sustainability move available to any surfer is often simple: buy gear you’ll use, care for it well, and replace it when it’s genuinely worn out. 🌊

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