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Quiksilver: Surfwear, History & What to Know 🌊
Quiksilver is a surfwear original worth considering, but the right buy depends on the product—not just the iconic Mountain and Wave logo. Check fit, materials, and technical features against how you’ll use it, whether that’s paddling out, fishing, or kicking around town.
Founded in Torquay, Australia, in 1969, Quiksilver grew from surf roots into a global action-sports brand. Our surf-team rule is simple: a boardshort needs to work in the water, while a graphic tee just needs to feel good after the session. Mixing up the two can leave you with a cotton shirt clinging like a stubborn barnacle.
Key Takeaways
- Quiksilver has genuine surf heritage: The brand began in Australia in 1969 and is known for boardshorts, surf apparel, and its Mountain and Wave logo.
- Choose by activity: Boardshorts, hybrid shorts, rash guards, wetsuits, and casual clothing serve different purposes.
- Check each product’s details: Fit, fabric, care instructions, and any UPF or recycled-material claims can vary by style and season.
- Waterman is a broader water-lifestyle collection: It includes casual clothing as well as pieces intended for activities such as fishing and boating.
- Our recommendation: Quiksilver can be a solid choice when the specific item fits your needs; don’t let the logo do all the paddling.
Table of Contents
- ⚡ Quick Tips and Facts
- 🌊 What Is Quiksilver? Brand Overview and Surfwear Guide
- 🏄 Quiksilver History: From Australian Surfboards to Global Surf Culture
- 🧵 Quiksilver Quality, Materials, and Sustainability
- How Quiksilver Boardshorts and Surfwear Are Made
- Recycled Fabrics, Surfside Impact, and Environmental Initiatives
- 👕 Quiksilver Clothing and Product Categories
- Boardshorts, Hybrid Shorts, and Swimwear
- Surf Tes, Rash Guards, and Sun Protection
- T-Shirts, Shirts, and Everyday Clothing
- Wetsuits, Surf Accessories, and Gear
- 🌴 Quiksilver Waterman Collection: Shirts, Shorts, and Surf Essentials
- Waterman Mix Pack 17 Swim Trunks
- Waterman Legion Cargo 20 Amphibian Hybrid Shorts
- Waterman Boca 19 Boardshorts
- Waterman Island Time Short Sleeve Woven Shirt
- Waterman Harvest Long Sleeve Flannel Shirt
- Waterman Centinela Premium Anti-Wrinkle Short Sleeve Shirt
- Waterman Offshore Angler UPF 50 Long Sleeve Surf Tee
- Waterman Roadside Service Classic Short Sleeve Knit T-Shirt
- Waterman Outrigger Classic Short Sleeve Knit T-Shirt
- Waterman Fronds Short Sleeve Woven Shirt
- Waterman Worries Out Short Sleeve Cotton T-Shirt
- Waterman Strands 19 Amphibian Hybrid Shorts
- 🌺 Quiksilver Hawaii Collection: Island-Inspired Surfwear
- Surfsilk Hawaii Blockchild 19 Boardshorts
- Hawaii Nomad 21 Boardshorts
- Hawaii Barb Wire Classic Short Sleeve Cotton T-Shirt
- Hawaii Spearhead 20 Boardshorts
- Surfsilk Kaimana 20 Boardshorts
- Hawaii Everyday UPF 50 Short Sleeve Surf Tee
- Hawaii Old English Classic Short Sleeve Knit T-Shirt
- Hawaii Everyday UPF 50 Long Sleeve Surf Tee
- 🛍️ Shop Quiksilver by Activity
- Surfing and Paddleboarding
- Swimming, Beach Days, and Travel
- Everyday Wear and Casual Style
- 📏 Quiksilver Size Guide: Finding the Right Fit
- How Quiksilver Boardshorts Should Fit
- Choosing Shirt, Surf Tee, and Wetsuit Sizes
- 🧼 How to Wash and Care for Quiksilver Surfwear
- ✅ Quiksilver Pros and Cons
- 🤔 Is Quiksilver Worth It? Our Surf-Team Verdict
- 🔄 Quiksilver Alternatives and Comparable Surf Brands
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quiksilver
- Is Quiksilver a Good Surf Brand?
- Where Is Quiksilver From?
- Does Quiksilver Make Sustainable Boardshorts?
- How Do Quiksilver Boardshorts Fit?
- What Is Quiksilver Waterman?
- How Should You Wash Quiksilver Boardshorts?
- 🏁 Conclusion
- 🔗 Recommended Links
- 📚 Reference Links
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
Quiksilver’s a surf brand with deep roots, but its gear is worn far beyond the lineup. The useful question isn’t just “Is it a surf brand?” It’s which Quiksilver products suit your water time, climate, and everyday style.
| Quick fact | What to know |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1969 in Torquay, Victoria, Australia, by surfers Alan Green and John Law |
| Known for | Boardshorts, surf apparel, wetsuits, snowear, casual clothing, and accessories |
| Logo | The “Mountain and Wave,” inspired by Hokusai’s The Great Wave off Kanagawa |
| Waterman | A collection aimed at fishing, boating, and other water-based activities |
| Ownership | Quiksilver’s brand and intellectual property are owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG) |
| Fit and availability | Product lines, sizing, and retail channels can vary by country and license |
👉 Shop by the job, not just the logo: choose boardshorts for surfing, a rash guard for sun and abrasion coverage, and a hybrid short if you want one pair to go from the beach to lunch without looking like you’re still waiting for a wave.
For more on the company’s present-day structure, see our related guide, Is Quiksilver Still a Company? The Surprising Answer 🌊. Explore our Surf Brand Guides, Surf Fashion, and Surf Gear for more practical comparisons.
Fast surf-team checklist
- ✅ Check the product’s fabric, lining, closure, and care label; a familiar collection name doesn’t guarantee identical construction across seasons.
- ✅ For long sessions, prioritize secure fit and freedom of movement over a loud print.
- ✅ UPF clothing can reduce UV exposure on covered skin, but it does not replace sunscreen on exposed areas. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration explains the risks of ultraviolet exposure.
- ❌ Don’t assume every Quiksilver product is designed for surfing. Some are lifestyle pieces, and some are built for other activities.
🌊 What Is Quiksilver? Brand Overview and Surfwear Guide
Quiksilver is an action-sports and surf-inspired apparel brand. Its range has grown from boardshorts and surf gear to casual clothing, snow apparel, footwear, and accessories. The official Quiksilver site organizes products around activities such as surfing, fishing, and golf, reflecting a broader lifestyle focus than “gear for surfers only.”
That breadth is handy, but it can blur the line between technical equipment and beach-inspired fashion. We treat those as different buying decisions:
| Product type | Best suited to | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Surf boardshorts | Paddling and surfing | Waist security, seam placement, stretch, and length |
| Hybrid shorts | Water and casual wear | Drying time, pockets, fabric weight, and whether pockets suit your activity |
| Rash guards and surf tees | Sun and abrasion coverage | Fit, sleeve length, and UPF rating where stated |
| Wetsuits | Thermal protection | Water temperature, thickness, seam construction, and fit |
| Casual apparel | Daily wear | Fabric feel, cut, shrinkage guidance, and construction |
Quiksilver’s brand story is closely tied to the evolution of surf clothing. But here’s the wrinkle: a famous surf logo doesn’t tell you whether a specific shirt is technical, environmentally preferable, or suited to your local conditions. The product details do.
For wider context, browse our Surf Lifestyle coverage and the official Quiksilver collection pages.
🏄 Quiksilver History: From Australian Surfboards to Global Surf Culture
From Torquay surf roots to a boardshort breakthrough
Quiksilver began in 1969 in Torquay, a coastal town in Victoria, Australia. Surfers Alan Green and John Law started the company around surfboards and surf clothing. A central part of the brand’s early identity was boardshort design: apparel intended to move more freely in the water than heavy everyday shorts.
Historical accounts describe early design details such as a Velcro fly, metal press studs, scalloped legs, and a yoke-style waist. These features helped set a template for functional surf trunks. The broader point is more important than any single detail: surfers wanted clothing shaped by surfing, not ordinary clothing simply worn into the ocean.
The Mountain and Wave logo
Quiksilver’s logo is widely known as the Mountain and Wave. Its wave-and-mountain image draws inspiration from Japanese artist Hokusai’s The Great Wave off Kanagawa. The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s guide to Hokusai provides background on the artist and his celebrated prints.
We’ve heard surfers call the logo “the wave on the mountain” and “the mountain under the wave.” Either way, it’s a compact bit of surf iconography: recognizable on a boardshort from across a windy beach, even when the wearer’s hair has staged a rebellion.
International growth, financial changes, and current ownership
Quiksilver expanded internationally, building a presence in North America and Europe and developing a wider action-sports portfolio. Its corporate history included major acquisitions, financial strain, and restructuring. Quiksilver, Inc. became Boardriders, Inc. in 2017; Authentic Brands Group acquired Boardriders’ brands and intellectual property in 2023.
Brand ownership and local retail operations are not the same thing. In 2025, Liberated Brands, a North American license that operated Quiksilver stores, filed for Chapter 11 and announced U.S. store closures. That affected particular retail operations; it did not mean Quiksilver’s intellectual property had changed owners. ABG’s brand portfolio is the more appropriate source for current ownership, while local product availability can depend on regional operators.
This distinction explains why you may see different stores, assortments, or websites in different markets. The logo is global; the route from factory to shop can be local.
🧵 Quiksilver Quality, Materials, and Sustainability
How Quiksilver Boardshorts and Surfwear Are Made
Quiksilver sells a wide range of products, so there isn’t one universal quality verdict. A boardshort designed for repeated paddling has different demands from a cotton graphic tee. When checking a garment, we look at the details that matter in use:
- Read the material composition. Stretch fabrics can help with movement; recycled content tells you about material inputs, not the whole environmental footprint.
- Inspect the seams and stress points. Waistbands, fly closures, and pocket corners take more abuse than a shirt’s front panel.
- Check the fit for its intended activity. A casual short can feel fine on shore but snag or chafe during a long paddle.
- Follow the care instructions. Salt, sunscreen, and heat can shorten the life of technical fabrics if you treat them like indestructible beach towels.
- Judge the actual garment, not only the collection name. Construction and materials can change between styles and seasons.
For a useful benchmark, the Federal Trade Commission’s clothing-label guide explains how fiber-content and care-label rules work in the United States.
Recycled Fabrics, Surfside Impact, and Environmental Initiatives
Quiksilver has promoted recycled materials in parts of its product range, including performance fibers made from recycled inputs. A recycled-material claim is worth noticing, but it should be read carefully: it does not, by itself, prove that a garment is recyclable, plastic-free, or low-impact in every stage of its life.
To assess a sustainability claim, look for:
- A clearly stated percentage of recycled content.
- The specific material and which garment components it applies to.
- Information about manufacturing, durability, and care.
- A named certification or traceable standard where relevant.
The Global Recycled Standard explains a certification framework for recycled materials and supply chains. For ocean protection, our Ocean Conservation section covers practical ways surfers can reduce waste and care for coastal places.
👕 Quiksilver Clothing and Product Categories
Quiksilver’s assortment varies by region and season, but these are the main categories most shoppers will encounter:
Boardshorts, Hybrid Shorts, and Swimwear
Boardshorts are built for water use, while hybrid shorts try to cover both wet and dry activities. Compare the construction before deciding:
| Feature | Boardshorts | Hybrid shorts |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Surfing and swimming | Water activities plus everyday wear |
| Typical priorities | Secure closure, movement, low-chafe seams | Quick drying, pockets, versatile styling |
| Pocket design | Often minimal or secured | May include more casual pockets |
| Best for | Surf sessions and beach use | Travel, casual wear, and light water use |
For surfing, we usually prefer a simple, secure design. A bulky pocket can feel like a tiny water parachute; convenient on land, less charming when you’re paddling.
Surf Tes, Rash Guards, and Sun Protection
Surf tees and rash guards can help protect covered skin from sun exposure and reduce rubbing from a board or wetsuit. A UPF rating, when specified, indicates how much ultraviolet radiation a fabric blocks under test conditions. The Skin Cancer Foundation’s guide to sun-protective clothing explains why garment coverage, fabric, and fit matter.
- ✅ Choose a fit that stays in place while paddling.
- ✅ For sun-heavy sessions, consider long sleeves and a high neckline.
- ❌ Don’t assume a regular T-shirt offers the same protection as a rated surf tee.
- ❌ Don’t forget sunscreen on exposed skin.
T-Shirts, Shirts, and Everyday Clothing
Quiksilver’s casual range includes graphic tees, knitwear, woven shirts, flannels, and outerwear. These pieces are better judged like everyday clothes: check fabric weight, cut, care instructions, and how the item fits your wardrobe. Surf branding may be the hook; comfort and durability are what make a shirt earn repeat wear.
Wetsuits, Surf Accessories, and Gear
Wetsuits and accessories need more technical scrutiny than casual apparel. A wetsuit’s thickness and fit should match the water temperature and your tolerance for cold. A suit that is too loose flushes water; one that is too tight can restrict movement. See NOAA’s marine forecast resources for local marine conditions, and check the product’s own temperature guidance rather than buying by brand name alone.
Quiksilver has also offered surf accessories and gear across markets. Product availability changes, so verify the current official listing and regional warranty terms before purchase.
🌴 Quiksilver Waterman Collection: Shirts, Shorts, and Surf Essentials
The Waterman collection is aimed at fishing, boating, and other water-based activities, alongside casual wear. That makes it a useful range to browse if you want sun-conscious shirts or shorts with water-friendly details, but not every Waterman item is technical fishing gear.
Collection names and availability can change between seasons and regions. The following named styles are best treated as product-page or search targets, not a guarantee that each style is currently in stock. Check the fabric, fit, pocket layout, and UPF claims on the listing before buying.
Waterman Mix Pack 17 Swim Trunks
A 17-inch swim-trunk cut is a more compact option than longer boardshorts. Check whether the garment has a lining, how the waistband closes, and whether the length suits your height and preferred coverage.
- Good fit for: Swimming and casual beach days.
- Potential drawback: A shorter cut may feel less secure or offer less coverage for some surfers.
- Surf-team tip: Try a few deep squats and a simulated paddle motion before removing the tags.
Waterman Legion Cargo 20 Amphibian Hybrid Shorts
The “amphibian” hybrid concept suggests a short intended to cross between land and water; cargo styling adds storage. Pockets are useful for a walk or travel day, but extra fabric and pocket contents can be inconvenient while surfing.
- Good fit for: Travel, fishing, and mixed beach-town days.
- Potential drawback: Cargo pockets may hold water or feel bulky during active surfing.
- Check: Fabric drying claims, pocket closures, and the listed inseam.
Waterman Boca 19 Boardshorts
A 19-inch boardshort sits between shorter and longer cuts for many wearers. Look for a secure waist closure and enough leg mobility for paddling and popping up.
- Good fit for: Surfers who want moderate coverage.
- Potential drawback: Inseam numbers don’t tell the whole fit story; rise and body proportions matter too.
- Check: The current product listing for fabric stretch and closure details.
Waterman Island Time Short Sleeve Woven Shirt
A short-sleeve woven shirt is a casual option for warm weather and post-session plans. It isn’t a substitute for a rash guard or rated sun-protective surf tee unless the product specifies relevant protection.
- Good fit for: Beach dinners, travel, and warm-weather casual wear.
- Potential drawback: Woven fabric may feel less comfortable than a technical top during vigorous activity.
- Tip: Check whether the fabric is lightweight and whether the care label allows machine washing.
Waterman Harvest Long Sleeve Flannel Shirt
A flannel is a land-first layering piece: useful for cool evenings, road trips, or the walk back from a windy beach. It’s not surf equipment, and cotton flannel is generally a poor choice for staying warm in the water.
- Good fit for: Casual layering in cool, dry conditions.
- Potential drawback: Not a technical water or wetsuit layer.
- Tip: Wear it over a dry base layer rather than pulling it over damp surf gear.
Waterman Centinela Premium Anti-Wrinkle Short Sleeve Shirt
An anti-wrinkle claim can be convenient for travel, but the exact performance depends on fabric and care. Read the garment’s material composition and washing directions instead of assuming “anti-wrinkle” means maintenance-free.
- Good fit for: Travel and casual occasions where a neater look is useful.
- Potential drawback: A more polished woven shirt may be less comfortable for sweaty, high-output activity.
- Tip: Pack it folded around softer clothing and check the care label before ironing.
Waterman Offshore Angler UPF 50 Long Sleeve Surf Tee
A stated UPF 50 rating makes this style more directly relevant to sun protection than a generic long-sleeve shirt. UPF measures fabric protection, not whole-body protection; sleeves can ride up, and uncovered skin still needs care.
- Good fit for: Long days on the water when you want more coverage.
- Potential drawback: Long sleeves can feel warm in hot, humid conditions.
- Tip: Check sizing closely so the shirt stays comfortably in place while you paddle.
Waterman Roadside Service Classic Short Sleeve Knit T-Shirt
A classic knit tee is an everyday layer, not specialized surf protection. The key questions are how the fabric feels, how it fits at the shoulders, and how it behaves after washing.
- Good fit for: Casual wear and post-surf downtime.
- Potential drawback: A standard tee may cling when wet and offer no stated UPF rating.
- Tip: If you’ll be in the sun for hours, choose a rated surf tee instead.
Waterman Outrigger Classic Short Sleeve Knit T-Shirt
This is another graphic or casual knit-tee style to evaluate for everyday comfort. Look at fabric composition and cut, since similarly named tees can differ between collections.
- Good fit for: Daily wear and surf-inspired styling.
- Potential drawback: Not a technical base layer or rash guard.
- Tip: Choose your usual fit preference rather than sizing up automatically for a relaxed look.
Waterman Fronds Short Sleeve Woven Shirt
A short-sleeve woven shirt with a tropical print suits warm-weather casual outfits. Think of it as beach-town clothing rather than an on-water performance shirt.
- Good fit for: Holidays, casual dinners, and warm afternoons.
- Potential drawback: Woven construction may limit stretch compared with technical surf apparel.
- Tip: Check the fabric blend and whether the print matches the rest of your travel wardrobe.
Waterman Worries Out Short Sleeve Cotton T-Shirt
A cotton T-shirt is straightforward, breathable casual wear for dry-land use. Once soaked, cotton tends to stay wet longer than many technical fabrics, so we wouldn’t pick it as our main surf top.
- Good fit for: Everyday wear and post-session comfort.
- Potential drawback: Less suited to repeated wet use and long paddling sessions.
- Tip: Keep one dry tee in your bag for after the surf.
Waterman Strands 19 Amphibian Hybrid Shorts
The hybrid label suggests versatility, while the 19-inch length offers a moderate coverage option. Compare the pockets and fabric with dedicated boardshorts if you intend to surf in them regularly.
- Good fit for: Travel, beach activities, and casual water use.
- Potential drawback: A versatile short can be a compromise if you need specialized surf performance.
- Tip: For frequent surfing, prioritize a secure waist and chafe-conscious seams over extra storage.
🌺 Quiksilver Hawaii Collection: Island-Inspired Surfwear
Quiksilver Hawaii styles often combine surf graphics and island-inspired design. That aesthetic is not a substitute for technical details: verify the fabric, inseam, stretch, lining, and sun-protection claims on each product page.
Surfsilk Hawaii Blockchild 19 Boardshorts
Surfsilk is a Quiksilver fabric name used for certain boardshorts. Check the official listing for the exact recycled-content or construction claims for the specific season and style; the name alone doesn’t establish the complete material breakdown.
- Good fit for: Surfers looking for a branded, mid-length boardshort option.
- Potential drawback: Print and fabric details may vary by version.
- Check: Waist closure, stretch, seam layout, and care instructions.
Hawaii Nomad 21 Boardshorts
A 21-inch length provides more leg coverage than many shorter boardshorts. Whether that feels right depends on your height, board style, and personal preference.
- Good fit for: Surfers who like a longer silhouette.
- Potential drawback: Longer legs may feel restrictive if the cut is narrow.
- Tip: Compare the product’s inseam and leg opening with a pair you already like.
Hawaii Barb Wire Classic Short Sleeve Cotton T-Shirt
This is a graphic cotton tee for casual wear. Treat it like a regular T-shirt, and check the care label for washing and drying guidance.
- Good fit for: Everyday surf-inspired outfits.
- Potential drawback: Cotton is not the best choice for a wet, high-friction surf session.
- Tip: Pair it with a dedicated rash guard when you’re actually surfing.
Hawaii Spearhead 20 Boardshorts
A 20-inch boardshort is a middle-ground length for many surfers. The real fit depends on the waistband, rise, and leg shape as much as the number.
- Good fit for: Surfers who want moderate coverage.
- Potential drawback: A fixed inseam may sit differently on different body types.
- Check: Stretch, closure, lining, and the current size chart.
Surfsilk Kaimana 20 Boardshorts
This named Surfsilk option combines a 20-inch style designation with Quiksilver’s boardshort fabric branding. Before buying, verify the current product details rather than relying on a past season’s description.
- Good fit for: Surf sessions and beach use, subject to the current design’s construction.
- Potential drawback: The product name alone does not confirm UPF, recycled-content percentage, or stretch.
- Tip: Look for a size chart and a clear description of material and closure.
Hawaii Everyday UPF 50 Short Sleeve Surf Tee
A short-sleeve surf tee with a stated UPF 50 rating can add coverage while keeping arms freer than a long-sleeve top. Choose it for conditions where the sleeves and torso coverage meet your needs.
- Good fit for: Shorter sessions and warm weather when extra coverage is wanted.
- Potential drawback: Less coverage than a long-sleeve surf tee.
- Tip: Apply sunscreen to arms and other exposed areas; clothing only protects what it covers.
Hawaii Old English Classic Short Sleeve Knit T-Shirt
A classic knit tee is a dry-land staple with surf-inspired graphics. Consider the fabric and fit first; graphic style is personal, but comfort is what makes the shirt a keeper.
- Good fit for: Casual outfits and travel.
- Potential drawback: No technical surf protection unless the specific listing says otherwise.
- Tip: Wash graphic tees inside out if the care label recommends it.
Hawaii Everyday UPF 50 Long Sleeve Surf Tee
A long-sleeve option provides more covered skin than its short-sleeve counterpart, which can be useful on bright, exposed breaks.
- Good fit for: Longer outdoor sessions and extra arm coverage.
- Potential drawback: May feel warm when air temperatures are high.
- Tip: Choose a close, comfortable fit that won’t billow or twist while paddling.
🛍️ Shop Quiksilver by Activity
Quiksilver’s official site presents products by activity, including surfing, fishing, and golf. That’s a useful starting point, but you should still check each item’s technical claims and intended use.
Surfing and Paddleboarding
For board sports, prioritize a secure fit, mobility, and materials suited to frequent weting. A basic set-up might include:
- Boardshorts that stay secure while paddling.
- A rash guard or surf tee for coverage.
- A wetsuit suited to local water temperatures.
- A towel and dry change of clothes for after the session.
See our Surf Gear guides for equipment advice beyond apparel.
Swimming, Beach Days, and Travel
For casual water use, hybrid shorts and swim trunks can be convenient. On a travel day, we like garments that dry reasonably quickly and work with more than one outfit. Still, don’t pack every task into one “do-it-all” short if you need high-performance surf gear.
Everyday Wear and Casual Style
Graphic tees, flannels, woven shirts, and hoodies are lifestyle clothing. Pick them for fit, fabric, and versatility, then enjoy the surf reference without pretending your flannel is a wetsuit. For outfit ideas, visit Surf Fashion.
📏 Quiksilver Size Guide: Finding the Right Fit
Quiksilver sizing can vary by garment type and market. Use the size chart on the specific regional product page, and compare body measurements rather than relying on a letter alone.
How Quiksilver Boardshorts Should Fit
- Measure your waist where you normally wear the waistband.
- Check the product’s closure. A drawcord, hook-and-loop fly, or other fastening system can affect how secure the fit feels.
- Compare inseam and rise. Two pairs with the same stated length can sit differently.
- Move before you buy. Walk, squat, and raise your knees; for surfing, imagine paddling and standing quickly.
- Look for rubbing risks. Seams and pocket edges shouldn’t dig in or flap.
A good boardshort feels secure on land without needing a wrestling match to put on. If you’re between sizes, check the product-specific guidance rather than assuming every Quiksilver short fits the same.
Choosing Shirt, Surf Tee, and Wetsuit Sizes
- Casual shirts: Choose based on your preferred shoulder and torso fit.
- Surf tees: Aim for a close but comfortable fit that stays in place in the water.
- Wetsuits: Fit matters for warmth and mobility. Follow the brand’s chart and try the suit on carefully; excessive gaps can let water flush through, while excessive tightness can restrict movement.
For wetsuits, compare the model’s thickness and construction to your local conditions. Cold-water advice should be based on water temperature, wind, and session length, not a vague “winter suit” label.
🧼 How to Wash and Care for Quiksilver Surfwear
Saltwater, sunscreen, sand, and heat can all be rough on surf clothing. Follow the garment label first, then use these practical habits:
- Rinse after saltwater use to remove salt and sand.
- Wash technical garments according to their care labels. Avoid assuming a hot wash is better.
- Close fastenings and turn graphic tees inside out when the label recommends it.
- Air-dry where permitted. High heat can damage some elastics and technical fabrics.
- Store wetsuits clean and dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The American Cleaning Institute’s laundry-care guidance offers general fabric-care advice, but your garment’s own label takes priority.
✅ Quiksilver Pros and Cons
| Strengths ✅ | Limitations ❌ |
|---|---|
| Long heritage in surf and action-sports apparel | Product quality and technical performance vary by item |
| Broad range from surfwear to casual clothing | Brand recognition alone doesn’t prove a garment suits your activity |
| Offers boardshorts and water-focused collections such as Waterman | Seasonal styles and regional availability can differ |
| Some products use recycled materials or specify sun protection | Sustainability and performance claims need product-level verification |
| Strong surf identity and broad cultural reach | Licensing and retail changes can make shopping channels confusing |
Our verdict is selective rather than logo-led: Quiksilver is worth considering when the garment’s design, materials, fit, and intended use match what you need. For a technical purchase, read the specifications. For a tee, choose the one you’ll actually want to wear after the surf.
🤔 Is Quiksilver Worth It? Our Surf-Team Verdict
Yes, Quiksilver can be a good choice, especially if you want surf heritage, familiar boardshort styles, or casual clothing with a boardsports look. But we wouldn’t give every item an automatic pass because it carries the Mountain and Wave.
Our team’s short version:
- For surfers: Compare the cut, stretch, closure, seams, and current technical specifications.
- For sun protection: Look for a stated UPF rating and choose coverage for the conditions.
- For everyday wear: Judge fit and fabric like you would with any clothing brand.
- For eco-conscious shopping: Verify the specific recycled-content claim, not just a sustainability headline.
- For value: Consider durability and how often you’ll wear the item, not only the brand name.
The first video featured above, linked at #featured-video, offers a brief and cryptic perspective: “No helmet. I couldn’t disarmed you even if I wanted it.” It doesn’t provide product specifications or a basis for judging garment performance; for that, we’d trust the item listing and care label over a dramatic one-liner.
🔄 Quiksilver Alternatives and Comparable Surf Brands
Quiksilver sits in a crowded surfwear field. Compare individual products rather than assuming one brand always wins.
| Brand | Often considered for | What to compare |
|---|---|---|
| Billabong | Surf apparel, boardshorts, and wetsuits | Fit, materials, seam details, and current collection |
| Rip Curl | Surf gear, wetsuits, and watches | Wetsuit construction, fit, and regional service |
| O’Neill | Wetsuits and surf apparel | Thermal needs, suit fit, and product-specific design |
| Hurley | Surf-inspired apparel and boardshorts | Fabric, cut, and intended use |
| Vans Surf | Surf-inspired footwear and lifestyle products | Footwear needs, grip, and water suitability |
Our recommendation: compare the exact garment you’re considering, including its care instructions and warranty terms. A well-fitting boardshort from another brand can be a better buy for you than a Quiksilver pair with the wrong length or closure.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quiksilver
Is Quiksilver a good surf brand?
Quiksilver is an established surf and action-sports brand with a long history and a broad apparel range. Whether a particular item is “good” depends on its construction and intended use. Check the product’s fit, fabric, closures, and technical claims rather than buying on reputation alone.
Where is Quiksilver from?
Quiksilver was founded in Torquay, Victoria, Australia, in 1969. The brand later expanded internationally and its corporate ownership and regional operations have changed over time.
What is Quiksilver Waterman?
Waterman is a Quiksilver collection associated with fishing, boating, and other water activities, alongside casual clothing. Its individual products range from shirts and shorts to apparel with specific functional claims. Always check the product listing to confirm whether a garment is technical or lifestyle-focused.
How do Quiksilver boardshorts fit?
Fit varies by style. Check the product-specific chart, waist closure, inseam, and rise. If possible, try the shorts on and move around before buying; a secure waist and comfortable leg movement matter more in the water than how they look on a hanger.
Does Quiksilver make sustainable boardshorts?
Some Quiksilver products have been marketed with recycled materials, but claims depend on the specific style and season. Look for a stated material percentage and supporting details. Recycled content is one part of sustainability, not a complete assessment of manufacturing impact or product lifespan.
How should you wash Quiksilver boardshorts?
Follow the care label for your particular pair. As a general habit, rinse after saltwater use, remove sand, avoid unnecessary high heat, and air-dry when permitted. Care instructions can differ between fabrics and trims.
Does Quiksilver sell wetsuits and surf gear?
Quiksilver has offered wetsuits and surf-related gear alongside apparel, but current selection varies by region and season. Check the official Quiksilver site and local retailer listings for current products.
What is Quiksilver known for?
Quiksilver is known for surf-inspired clothing, boardshorts, its Mountain and Wave logo, and its connection to boardsports culture. The brand’s product range now extends beyond surfing, so its apparel should be judged by the activity it is designed for.
Who owns Quiksilver?
Authentic Brands Group owns Quiksilver’s brand and intellectual property. Retail and product operations can be handled by regional licenses or operators, which is why the brand’s store presence and product assortment may differ between markets. See ABG’s brand portfolio for ownership context.
How does Quiksilver compare with Billabong?
Both brands have strong surf identities and offer boardshorts, apparel, and other surf-related products. Neither is automatically better across the board. Compare the specific product’s fit, materials, features, and warranty, then choose the one that suits your needs.
What does “Quiksilver” mean?
The brand name is styled Quiksilver; it is not the same as the ordinary word “quicksilver.” The brand is best known through its surf heritage, Mountain and Wave logo, and apparel rather than a product specification implied by the name.
Where can I find current Quiksilver product information?
Start with the official Quiksilver website for current product pages and regional selections. Quiksilver’s Instagram account shares posts and videos, but social content may not include full specifications, care guidance, or sizing details. For those, use the product page and garment label.




