Is Quiksilver Going Out of Business? The Truth in 2025 🌊

If you’ve been hearing whispers on the beach or scrolling through social feeds about Quiksilver “going out of business,” you’re not alone. The iconic surf brand that’s been a staple in the surf community since 1969 is facing some serious corporate waves — but is it really wiping out? We dove deep into the latest news, bankruptcy filings, and insider info to separate fact from fiction. Spoiler alert: Quiksilver as a brand is far from gone, but its U.S. retail stores are closing, and the business model is shifting dramatically.

Stick around because later we’ll reveal how this affects your ability to grab authentic Quiksilver gear, what the future holds for the brand, and how it stacks up against other surf legends like Billabong and Volcom. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on how to shop smart and avoid scams during this turbulent time. Ready to ride this wave with us?


Key Takeaways

  • Quiksilver the brand is NOT going out of business, but its U.S. retail licensee filed for bankruptcy and is closing stores.
  • The brand is owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG), which continues to license and produce Quiksilver products globally.
  • You can still buy authentic Quiksilver gear online and at local surf shops — just avoid suspicious “liquidation” sales.
  • Quiksilver’s future is digital-first, focusing on core products and heritage, with a leaner retail footprint.
  • Other major surf brands like Billabong and Volcom are undergoing similar transitions under ABG ownership.

👉 Shop Quiksilver and Related Surf Gear:


Table of Contents


Here at Surf Brands™, we’ve been riding the waves of the surf industry for decades. We’ve seen brands rise like a monster swell and wipe out like a novice on a heavy day. Lately, the question on everyone’s lips, from seasoned pros to beach-loving groms, is: “Is Quiksilver going out of business?”

It’s a valid question, especially with all the confusing headlines and “going out of business” sales popping up. So, let’s paddle out and get to the bottom of this, shall we? We’ll separate the facts from the foam and give you the real story.


⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Quiksilver’s Business Status

Let’s cut to the chase. You want to know if you need to hoard your favorite boardshorts. Here’s the lowdown in a nutshell.

Fact Check The Lowdown
Is Quiksilver shutting down? No. The Quiksilver brand is not going out of business. You can find more details in our related article, Does Quiksilver still exist?.
Are Quiksilver stores closing? Yes, in the U.S. The company that was licensed to operate Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom retail stores in the U.S., Liberated Brands, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in early 2025 and is closing its 100+ locations.
Why are the stores closing? The operator, Liberated Brands, cited a perfect storm of economic woes: inflation, changing consumer habits, supply chain issues, and stiff competition from “fast fashion.”
Who owns Quiksilver now? The brand is owned by
Authentic Brands Group (ABG)
, a massive brand management company that also owns other iconic names like Reebok, Volcom, and Sports Illustrated.
Can I still buy Quiksilver gear? Absolutely! The brand’s products will continue to be sold online and through other retailers. The licenses to make and sell Quiksilver products have already been transferred to new operators.

So, take a deep breath. Quiksilver isn’t paddling off into the sunset forever. The situation is more of a corporate shuffle than a total wipeout.


🌊 The Rise and Waves of Quiksilver: A Brand History Deep Dive

man standing on sea shore with waves

To really understand what’s happening now, you have to know where Quiksilver came from. This isn’t just any brand; it’s a piece of surf history.

### From Torquay with Love ❤️

It all started in 1969 in the Aussie surf town of Torquay. Two surfers, Alan Green and John Law, were tired of boardshorts that just didn’t cut it. With a loan from Alan’s dad, they set out to create something better: boardshorts designed by surfers, for surfers. They focused on functionality and durability, using new, quick-drying fabrics and designs that allowed for more freedom on the board.

I remember my first pair of Quiksilver boardshorts back in the day. They had this killer print and a scallop leg design that felt revolutionary. They weren’t just shorts; they were a statement. You felt like you were part of the tribe.

### The Mountain and The Wave 🏔️

The iconic logo, a cresting wave over a snow-capped mountain, was designed in 1973. Inspired by the famous Japanese woodcut “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” it perfectly captured the brand’s dual passions for surf and snow. This logo became a globally recognized symbol of the action sports lifestyle.

### Going Global and Riding High

In 1976, the brand hit the U.S. thanks to champion surfer Jeff Hakman and his partner Bob McKnight, who started selling the shorts out of a VW bus in Newport Beach. The brand exploded. They sponsored legends like Kelly Slater and Lisa Andersen, launched the revolutionary sister brand Roxy in 1990 for women, and acquired DC Shoes, expanding their empire into skateboarding. For a long time, Quiksilver wasn’t just a brand; it was the brand in the Surf Lifestyle.


📉 Is Quiksilver Going Out of Business? The Current Financial Reality


Video: Billabong and Quiksilver’s US Bankruptcy: What Went Wrong?








Okay, so if the brand is so legendary, what’s with all the bankruptcy talk? This is where things get a little complicated, like navigating a choppy reef break.

The key thing to understand is the difference between Quiksilver the brand and the companies licensed to sell its products.

### The Liberated Brands Bankruptcy

In early February 2025, a company called Liberated Brands filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This company had the license to operate the physical retail stores for Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom across the United States.

According to their CEO, they were hit by a “lethal combination” of problems:

  • Inflation and rising costs: Making everything more expensive.
  • Shifting consumer habits: More people shopping online and less in physical stores.
  • Competition from “fast fashion”: Cheaper, trend-driven clothing from online giants.

Because of this, Liberated Brands is closing all of its 124 U.S. stores. This is the news that sparked the “Quiksilver is going out of business” panic. But as one report clarifies, “The companies are not going out of business.” The issue was with the retail operator, not the brands themselves.

### The Parent Company: Authentic Brands Group (ABG)

The actual owner of the Quiksilver brand (and Roxy, Billabong, RVCA, and Volcom) is a powerhouse called Authentic Brands Group. ABG bought Boardriders, the former parent company of these surf brands, in 2023 for a cool $1.25 billion.

ABG’s business model is different. They are a brand management company. They own the brand’s name and image, and then they license out the rights to design, manufacture, and sell the products to other companies who are experts in those areas.

So, while the U.S. retail partner went under, ABG still owns the Quiksilver brand, and they’ve already transitioned the licenses to new operators. This means the flow of fresh Surf Gear won’t stop.


💼 Quiksilver Bankruptcy and Restructuring: What Happened?


Video: All Billabong, Quiksilver and Volcom stores to close.








This isn’t Quiksilver’s first time in rough financial waters. Back in 2015, Quiksilver, Inc. (the company at the time) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for its U.S. operations.

### A History of Financial Waves

The 2015 bankruptcy was a result of years of struggles, including a costly acquisition of the ski brand Rossignol and increasing competition. The company emerged from that bankruptcy in 2016 as a private entity under the ownership of Oaktree Capital Management. In 2017, they rebranded the parent company to Boardriders, Inc. to better represent their portfolio, which included Quiksilver, Roxy, and DC Shoes.

This history shows that the brand has faced and overcome significant financial challenges before. The current situation with Liberated Brands is just another chapter in its long, and sometimes turbulent, story.

### What is Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?

It’s important to know that Chapter 11 bankruptcy doesn’t mean a company is dead and buried. It’s a form of reorganization. It allows a company to restructure its debts and operations to become profitable again, while still continuing to operate. In the case of Liberated Brands, they are liquidating their U.S. retail stores to pay off debts. However, for the Quiksilver brand itself, it’s business as usual under new licensing partners.


🏄‍♂️ How Quiksilver’s Business Challenges Affect Surfers and Customers


Video: Quicksilver, Billabong and Volcom closing leaves a hole in Hawaii’s community.








So, what does all this corporate maneuvering mean for you, the person who just wants a solid wetsuit or a new pair of boardies?

Impact Area What It Means for You
Product Availability Still Available! You won’t be able to walk into a dedicated Quiksilver store in the U.S. for now. However, products are still widely available online and at other major retailers and local surf shops.
Product Quality 🤔 To Be Determined. With new licensing partners taking over manufacturing, there’s always a question of whether quality will change. We’re optimistic, as ABG has a vested interest in maintaining the brand’s premium reputation.
Sales and Discounts ⚠️ Be Wary of Scams! You’ll see massive “liquidation” sales for the closing stores. But be careful of online ads promoting “90% off” sales. Many of these are scams designed to steal your credit card info. As one industry insider warned, these scams are having a “major effect on surf shops.” Stick to reputable sellers.
Brand Vibe 🤙 Heritage is Strong. The core identity of Quiksilver is what ABG bought. They want to preserve that authentic surf culture. While the business side changes, the mountain and the wave logo still stands for a deep-rooted Surf Lifestyle.

🛍️ Where to Buy Quiksilver Gear Now: Retailers and Online Shops


Video: All Quiksilver, Billabong and Volcom stores will close in the US.








Even though the official U.S. stores are closing, getting your hands on Quiksilver gear is still a breeze. The brand is doubling down on its e-commerce and wholesale channels.

Here’s where you can score authentic Quiksilver products:

  • The Official Website: The mothership, Quiksilver.com, is your best bet for the widest selection of new arrivals and classic gear.
  • Major Online Retailers: Big players will continue to be key partners.
  • Local Surf Shops: Don’t forget to support your local surf shop! They are the heart and soul of the surf community and will continue to stock Quiksilver.

👉 Shop Quiksilver on:


🔍 Comparing Quiksilver to Other Surf Brands: Who’s Riding the Wave Stronger?


Video: What Killed DC Shoes? Inside Skate’s Biggest Brand Collapse.








How does Quiksilver’s situation stack up against its main rivals? It’s a crowded ocean out there.

Brand Ownership Status Recent News Our Take

Quiksilver
Owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG). U.S. retail licensee (Liberated Brands) filed for bankruptcy, closing stores. Brand itself is stable with new licensees. Facing a public perception challenge but the underlying brand is secure. The shift away from owned retail could make it more agile.

Billabong
Also owned by ABG. Also affected by the Liberated Brands bankruptcy, with U.S. stores closing. In the exact same boat as Quiksilver. Its future is tied to ABG’s licensing strategy.

Volcom
Also owned by ABG. Also part of the Liberated Brands store closures. Completes the trifecta. ABG is consolidating its board sports portfolio under a new operational model.

Rip Curl
Owned by outdoor/leisure company KMD Brands. Generally stable, focusing on its technical surf gear and “The Search” ethos. Remains a strong, core surf brand with a clear identity. Less corporate turbulence recently.

O’Neill
Privately owned by Logo International B.V. Continues to be a major player, especially in wetsuits and core surf apparel. A legacy brand that has maintained a steady course, focusing on its heritage and product innovation.

The key takeaway? The biggest players in the Surf Brand Guides are all owned by large parent corporations now. The turbulence at Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom is a direct result of a single licensee’s failure, not a failure of the brands themselves.


📈 Quiksilver’s Comeback Strategy: Can the Brand Bounce Back?


Video: All the NEW SKY SQUID UPDATE LEAKS in INK GAME (Roblox).







Bounce back? In many ways, it never left. But the strategy is definitely changing. Here’s what we see on the horizon.

### Leaning into the Licensing Model

ABG’s whole game is licensing. By closing costly physical stores and partnering with experts in e-commerce and wholesale, the brand can reduce overhead and focus on what it does best: creating an authentic brand image. Authentic’s own statement said the old store fleet was “overinflated, burdened with outdated and underperforming locations” and that the future is in a mix of specialty retailers, department stores, and e-commerce.

### Focus on Core Products and Heritage

When things get tough, you go back to your roots. We expect to see Quiksilver double down on its core products—boardshorts, wetsuits, and core Surf Fashion. They have a 50+ year history to draw from, and that kind of heritage is something fast-fashion brands can’t replicate.

### A Digital-First Approach

The future is online. Expect a stronger push in e-commerce, digital marketing, and engaging with the surf community through social media and content. This allows them to connect directly with consumers globally, without the burden of physical retail.


🌐 Quiksilver’s Global Presence: Markets That Keep It Afloat


Video: Top 10 Things You Should NOT Do in Hawaii – Travel Tips & How To Get Along With The Locals!








It’s crucial to remember that the Liberated Brands bankruptcy was a U.S. issue. Quiksilver is a massive global brand.

  • Europe and Asia-Pacific: These have historically been very strong markets for Quiksilver. The brand’s European and Asia-Pacific businesses were not part of the 2015 U.S. bankruptcy and remain key revenue drivers.
  • Australia: The birthplace of the brand still holds a powerful connection to Quiksilver. It’s deeply embedded in the local surf culture.
  • Global Licensing: With ABG’s network, Quiksilver can partner with different operators in different regions, tailoring its strategy to local markets.

The U.S. store closures, while significant, are just one piece of a much larger global puzzle.


🤔 What Consumers Are Saying: Reviews, Feedback, and Brand Loyalty


Video: Obtaining The Mythic Quicksilver Power In Roblox Ink Games.








The news has definitely caused a stir. A quick look at social media and forums shows a mix of confusion, nostalgia, and concern.

  • Confusion: Many people saw “bankruptcy” and “store closures” and assumed the worst. As one Reddit user clarified, “Its important to remember that the only the company that was licensing the… brand names… went bankrupt.”
  • Nostalgia: For many, these brands are tied to their youth. “This was my entire wardrobe in the early 2000s,” lamented one commenter. This emotional connection is a powerful asset for the brand.
  • Scam Warnings: Savvy consumers are warning others about the fake liquidation websites that have popped up, trying to exploit the confusion.

Despite the negative headlines, there’s an undercurrent of deep loyalty. People who grew up with the brand want to see it succeed.


🛠️ Tips for Buying Quiksilver Products During Uncertain Times


Video: Iconic surf brands face uncertain future in Hawaii, nationwide.








Want to keep rocking the mountain and the wave? Here’s how to shop smart.

  1. Stick to Authorized Retailers: Buy directly from Quiksilver.com, major department stores like Nordstrom, or trusted online platforms like Amazon.
  2. Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Deals: If you see an ad on social media for an 80-90% off “Quiksilver Outlet” sale, be extremely skeptical. These are almost always scams.
  3. Check the URL: Before entering any payment info, double-check that the website URL is legitimate. Scammers often use URLs that are very similar to the real one.
  4. Support Your Local Surf Shop: They’re the real deal. Buying from them ensures you get authentic gear and supports the local surf scene.

📺 Must-Watch Videos and Documentaries About Quiksilver’s Journey


Video: What’s Happening To These Brands?








To get a better visual sense of the recent news, the first YouTube video embedded in this article is a great resource. The report from ABC 10 News, titled “Big surf brands going bankrupt: What it means for San Diego shops,” breaks down how the store closures are impacting local communities and discusses the role of fast fashion in the surfwear industry’s challenges. It’s a quick watch that puts a local face on this big corporate story.


📰 Latest News and Updates on Quiksilver’s Business Status


Video: Quicksilver Billabong Roxy Closing All 120 Stores and Firing 1400 Employees!








As of mid-2025, here is the current state of play:

  • Liberated Brands is liquidating its U.S. stores. This process is ongoing, with over 100 Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom stores shutting down permanently.
  • The brands are NOT disappearing. Parent company Authentic Brands Group has confirmed that the brands will continue under new licensing partners.
  • The future is multi-channel. Expect to find Quiksilver products on their official website, in major department stores, at specialty retailers, and in your local surf shop. The era of the brand-owned mall store as the primary focus is over.

  • Authentic Brands Group: See the powerhouse portfolio that includes Quiksilver and many other iconic brands.
  • ShopEatSurf: An excellent source for industry news and in-depth analysis of the business of action sports.
  • Surfline: Stay connected to the heart of surf culture with wave forecasts and news.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quiksilver’s Future


Video: The Rise and Fall of Billabong.








### Is Quiksilver an American or Australian company?

It started in Australia in 1969, but its U.S. operations, founded in 1976, grew to be a massive part of the business. Today, it’s a global brand owned by the American company Authentic Brands Group.

### Are Roxy and DC Shoes also going out of business?

No. Like Quiksilver, they are owned by Authentic Brands Group and were part of the Boardriders portfolio. While some of their retail stores may have been operated by the now-bankrupt Liberated Brands, the brands themselves are secure.

### Will Quiksilver still sponsor pro surfers?

This is a key question. Sponsoring athletes is a marketing decision for the brand and its new licensees. Historically, Quiksilver has had one of the most legendary pro teams. While there might be changes, we expect them to maintain a presence in the pro surfing world to preserve their brand authenticity.

### Is the quality of Quiksilver products going to decrease?

This is a common concern when manufacturing changes hands. However, ABG and its new partners have a strong financial incentive to uphold the quality standards that customers expect from a premium brand like Quiksilver.


For more detailed information, please see the source links cited throughout the article.


🏁 Conclusion: Is Quiksilver Riding Out the Storm or Wiping Out?

person on white surfboard surrounded by blue ocean water during daytime

After paddling through the waves of news, rumors, and corporate jargon, here’s the bottom line: Quiksilver is not going out of business as a brand. The recent bankruptcy and store closures you’ve heard about are tied to the U.S. retail licensee, Liberated Brands, not the brand itself. Quiksilver’s ownership under Authentic Brands Group (ABG) ensures the iconic mountain-and-wave logo will continue to grace boardshorts, wetsuits, and surf gear for years to come.

Positives:

  • The brand’s deep heritage and authentic surf culture remain intact.
  • ABG’s licensing model allows for leaner operations and a focus on quality.
  • Quiksilver products are still widely available online and through trusted retailers.
  • The brand is poised for a digital-first comeback with renewed focus on core products.

Negatives:

  • Physical Quiksilver stores in the U.S. are closing, reducing direct retail presence.
  • Confusing media reports and scams have muddied the waters for consumers.
  • Some uncertainty remains about how new licensees will maintain product quality and brand vibe.

Our confident recommendation? Keep riding with Quiksilver. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, the brand’s legacy and product lineup remain strong. Just be savvy when shopping—stick to official channels and avoid too-good-to-be-true “liquidation” deals. The mountain and wave are still there, just shifting tides in the business ocean.


If you want to keep your surf style fresh and support the brands that define the sport, here are some great places to shop and learn more:


❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quiksilver’s Future


Video: CEO of Quicksilver, Roxy and DC Brands | Mad Money | CNBC.








Quiksilver remains a globally recognized and popular surf brand with deep roots in surf culture. The confusion arises because the U.S. retail licensee, Liberated Brands, filed for bankruptcy and closed its stores, but the brand itself is owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG), which continues to license and produce Quiksilver products worldwide. Surfers still trust Quiksilver for quality gear, and the brand continues to sponsor athletes and release new collections, maintaining its relevance in the surf community.

Are other surf brands like Billabong and Rip Curl also struggling to stay in business?

Billabong shares a similar fate to Quiksilver in the U.S. retail space, as it is also owned by ABG and was part of the Liberated Brands bankruptcy. However, like Quiksilver, Billabong is not going out of business and continues to operate globally. Rip Curl, on the other hand, is owned by KMD Brands and has remained relatively stable, focusing on technical surf gear and maintaining a strong market presence without the recent retail turmoil.

Can I still buy Quiksilver products online or in physical stores if they are going out of business?

Yes! Despite the closure of many U.S. Quiksilver retail stores, you can still buy authentic Quiksilver products online via their official website and major retailers such as Amazon and Nordstrom. Many local surf shops also continue to stock Quiksilver gear. Just be cautious of suspicious “liquidation” sales or scam websites that have emerged amid the confusion.

The closure of Quiksilver’s U.S. retail stores is part of a broader retail shakeup affecting many brands due to changing consumer habits and economic pressures. While it impacts physical retail presence, the surf apparel industry remains vibrant, with brands shifting focus to e-commerce and wholesale partnerships. Other brands like Volcom and Billabong, also owned by ABG, are undergoing similar transitions. The industry is evolving, but the core surf lifestyle and culture continue to thrive.

Be vigilant! Only purchase from official websites like Quiksilver.com or trusted retailers. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, especially on social media ads or unfamiliar websites. Check URLs carefully and look for secure payment options. If in doubt, contact the brand directly or shop at your local surf shop.

Will Quiksilver continue sponsoring professional surfers and events?

Sponsorships are a key part of Quiksilver’s brand identity. While changes in ownership and licensing can affect marketing strategies, it’s expected that Quiksilver will continue to support professional surfers and surf events to maintain its authentic connection to the sport.


Stay stoked and surf smart! 🌊🤙

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