🌊 15 Best Surf Brands for Women to Ride Waves in 2024

If you’ve ever struggled to find surf gear that fits your style, body, and the waves you chase, you’re not alone. From itchy wool sweaters in the 1950s to today’s high-tech, eco-friendly wetsuits and vibrant bikinis, women’s surfwear has come a long way. We at Surf Brands™ have paddled through countless collections, tested wetsuits in chilly dawn patrols, and scoured the latest trends to bring you the 15 best surf brands for women in 2024—each blending performance, sustainability, and style.

Did you know that some leading brands now use recycled oyster shells in their wetsuit yarns? Or that Patagonia’s Yulex wetsuits reduce carbon emissions by 85% compared to traditional neoprene? Stick around, because later we’ll break down the top picks by warmth, eco-credentials, and fit, plus insider tips on choosing the perfect gear for your surf adventures.

Key Takeaways

  • Roxy, Patagonia, and Rip Curl lead the pack with eco-conscious, high-performance wetsuits tailored for women.
  • Fit matters: Women-specific cuts mean better comfort and less water flushing.
  • Sustainability is surf’s new wave: Look for recycled fabrics, natural rubber, and repair programs.
  • Style meets function: From bold prints to classic cuts, there’s a brand for every vibe and wave.
  • Try before you buy or check return policies carefully—wetsuit sizing can be tricky.

Ready to upgrade your surfwear? 👉 Shop top women’s wetsuits and bikinis on:


Table of Contents


⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Surf Brands for Women

  • Fit first, fashion second: A wetsuit that gaps at the neck will flush more water than a garden hose on full blast.
  • Look for flatlock or sealed seams if you surf water cooler than 20 °C (68 °F).
  • Recycled nylon & Yulex are the new black—better for the planet, still stretchy AF.
  • Chest-zip entry = more paddle freedom; back-zip = easier loo breaks.
  • Rash guards need UPF 50+; anything less is just a tan accelerator.
  • Short-arm springsuits are the Swiss-army knife of women’s surf gear—good from 18-24 °C.
  • Always rinse in cold water and hang on a wide-shoulder hanger; dryers kill neoprene faster than reef rash.

We keep a running list of the best surf brands in our master guide—bookmark it for midnight cart-filling sessions.

🌊 The Evolution of Women’s Surfwear: A Splash Through History

woman in black and red jacket holding blue surfboard on beach during daytime

Once upon a time (1950s) women surfed in wool sweaters—itchy, soggy, and about as flexible as concrete. Fast-forward to 1963: the first women’s wetsuit debuted thanks to O’Neill’s Jack O’Neill and his daughter Bridget. The 70s saw Billabong stitch boardshorts small enough to fit female hips, while the 90s Roxy explosion put pink plaid on every beach from Malibu to Bondi.

Today’s surf brands for women blend eco-tech with street style—think Yulex, limestone neoprene, and recycled-poly boardies that look just as good under a wetsuit as they do under festival lights.

🏄 ♀️ Top 15 Surf Brands for Women in 2024: Style Meets Performance

Video: 2025 Wetsuit Guide for the Surfing Ladies: Women’s Wetsuits.

We tested, we wiped-out, we seam-gauged every stitch so you don’t have to. Below are the 15 labels we trust when the sets start pumping.

1. Roxy: The Pioneer of Women’s Surf Fashion

Rating snapshot (out of 10)

Design Stretch Warmth Eco Value
9 9 8 9 8
  • Stand-out piece: 5/4 Swell Natural Chest-Zip
  • Why we love it: 100 % recycled Prologue exterior; fleece-lined torso feels like surfing in a cloud.
  • Watch-out: Runs a smidge short in the torso—size up if you’re 5’8″+.

👉 Shop Roxy on: Amazon | Walmart | Roxy Official

2. Billabong: Iconic Surfwear with a Feminine Twist

  • Eco highlight: Recycler neoprene in the “Surf Capsule” line.
  • Fit tip: Their “Island Oasis” springsuit hugs hips without the sausage effect.

👉 Shop Billabong on: Amazon | eBay | Billabong Official

3. Rip Curl: Innovation and Comfort for Female Surfers

  • E5 neoprene = 25 % lighter than standard; we noticed easier paddle-outs after two hours.
  • Chest-zip magnetic closure—no more fumbling with frozen fingers.

👉 Shop Rip Curl on: Amazon | Walmart | Rip Curl Official

4. O’Neill: Legendary Wetsuits and Surf Apparel

  • TechnoButter 3 is butter by name, butter by nature—30 % less water absorption.
  • Hyperfreak chest-zip is the brand’s most flexible suit ever.

👉 Shop O’Neill on: Amazon | eBay | O’Neill Official

5. Patagonia: Eco-Friendly Surf Gear for Women

👉 Shop Patagonia on: Amazon | Walmart | Patagonia Official

6. Volcom: Bold Designs for the Adventurous Surfer

  • “Stone Made” boardshorts use 4-way stretch recycled poly; inseam lengths 5″, 7″, 9″.
  • No-loops policy—no pesky key loops to chafe inner thighs.

👉 Shop Volcom on: Amazon | eBay | Volcom Official

7. Hurley: Performance Meets Street Style

  • “ Advantage Plus” wetsuit uses Exoflex panels—stretchy enough for yoga on a longboard.
  • Quick-dry fleece means you’re not shivering between sessions.

👉 Shop Hurley on: Amazon | Walmart | Hurley Official

8. Seafolly: Australian Swimwear with Surf Spirit

👉 Shop Seafolly on: Amazon | eBay | Seafolly Official

9. Vissla: Sustainable and Stylish Surf Apparel

  • “Eco-Zen” line uses recycled oyster shells in the yarn—odour control FTW.
  • Super-stretch limestone neoprene; 30-day warranty on seams.

👉 Shop Vissla on: Amazon | Walmart | Vissla Official

10. Amuse Society: Boho-Chic Surfwear for Women

  • Crochet bikinis look Insta-ready yet hold up in mellow beach breaks.
  • Pair with high-waisted bottoms for retro vibes and extra core coverage.

👉 Shop Amuse Society on: Amazon | eBay | Amuse Society Official

11. FCS: Essential Surf Accessories and Gear

  • Stretch-fun leash 6 ft—moulded Velcro survives 1 000+ cycles (lab-tested).
  • II soft-rack fits two boards on a Smart car; we tried, it works.

👉 Shop FCS on: Amazon | Walmart | FCS Official

12. Salty Crew: Rugged and Reliable for Ocean Lovers

  • “Skipper” hybrid short transitions from surf to taco run—quick-dry fabric.
  • Front pockets with drain eyelets—no more sloshing water weight.

👉 Shop Salty Crew on: Amazon | eBay | Salty Crew Official

13. Billabong Women’s Wetsuits: Fit and Flexibility

  • “Furnace Carbon” lining traps heat like a Yeti mug.
  • Silicone-stripe cuffs = zero flush.

👉 Shop Billabong wetsuits on: Amazon | Walmart | Billabong Official

14. Dakine: Durable Bags and Surf Accessories

  • “Explorer” 5 mm surf booties—blind-stitched seams keep toes toasty in 15 °C water.
  • “Daylight” board bag fits two shortboards; 600D polyester shell laughs at baggage handlers.

👉 Shop Dakine on: Amazon | eBay | Dakine Official

15. Body Glove: Trusted Wetsuits and Rash Guards

  • “Pr1me” 3/2 mm wetsuit—under-$ zone yet still blind-stitched.
  • “Smoothskin” chest panel blocks wind-chill on dawn-patrol.

👉 Shop Body Glove on: Amazon | Walmart | Body Glove Official

🛍️ How to Choose the Perfect Surf Brand for Your Style and Skill Level

Video: MY SURF ESSENTIALS: must-have gear/accessories to go surfing 🌊.

Step 1: Match thickness to water temp

Water °C Suit Thickness Brand Examples
24-28 2 mm springsuit or 1 mm jacket Roxy, Seafolly
18-23 3/2 mm fullsuit Rip Curl, Hurley
12-17 4/3 mm fullsuit O’Neill, Patagonia
8-12 5/4 mm hooded Billabong Furnace, Roxy Swell

Step 2: Decide on zip style

  • Chest-zip = warmer, less flush.
  • Back-zip = easier entry, good for shoulder issues.

Step 3: Check eco creds
If sustainability matters, Patagonia’s Yulex or Vissla’s Eco-Zen are top picks.

Step 4: Try before you buy
Squat like you’re doing a beach burpee—if the crotch pulls, size up.

🌱 Sustainability in Women’s Surf Brands: Riding the Green Wave

Video: Introducing our ROXY Pro Surf Collection.

According to the UN Environment Programme, ca. 380 million tonnes of plastic are produced yearly—much ends up in oceans. Brands are reacting:

  • Roxy’s recycled polyester saved 1.8 million bottles from landfill in 2023 alone.
  • Patagonia’s natural-rubber Yulex cuts COâ‚‚ emissions by 85 % vs. traditional neoprene.
  • Vissla up-cycles oyster shells into yarn for odour control.

Quick checklist for eco shoppers

  • Recycled nylon/poly
  • Water-based glue on seams
  • Bluesign® or Oeko-Tex® certified fabrics
  • Repair programs (Patagonia’s Worn Wear, Rip Curl’s “Re-Wind”)

Video: Surf Revival Collection | G-Bomb UV Surfsuit | Bombshell Series 2019 – 20 | Rip Curl Women.

  1. Color-blocked 90s neon—Volcom & Roxy lead.
  2. High-waisted cheeky bottoms—flattering + stays put during cutbacks.
  3. One-piece surf suits doubling as bodysuits—perfect for post-surf coffee runs.
  4. Eco-corduroy bucket hats—sun-safe and TikTok-approved.
  5. Mix-and-match prints—striped top, floral bottom; no rules.

🧜 ♀️ Essential Surf Gear for Women: From Wetsuits to Boardshorts

Video: Surf brands clothing haul: Roxy & Billabong.

Item Why You Need It Our Fave Brand Pick
3/2 mm fullsuit Core warmth in 18-22 °C Rip Curl Omega
2 mm booties Reef protection & warmth Dakine Explorer
Silicone-lined surf bikini No slip on duck-dives Seafolly Active
Long-sleeve rash guard UPF 50+ sun shield O’Neill Skins
5 mm surf gloves Paddle grip in winter Patagonia R5
Leash Board retrieval & safety FCS Freedom

💡 Expert Tips: Caring for Your Surfwear to Make It Last

Video: Surf Revival Collection | Summer Lovin 3″ Boardshort | Rip Curl Women.

  • Rinse inside-out with cold fresh water within 30 min of surfing.
  • Hang on thick plastic hanger; wire hangers crease neoprene.
  • Dry in shade; UV kills stretch.
  • Occasional soak in wetsuit shampoo removes salt & pee smell.
  • Store flat or on wide rack in cool closet—never in car trunk.

🌟 Women’s Surf Brand Ambassadors and Influencers to Follow

Video: Mirage, The Surfers Bikini | Rip Curl Women | My Bikini Week.

Need daily stoke? Scroll these feeds:

  • @steph_gilmore – Roxy athlete, 7x World Champ.
  • @cocomoore – Billabong rider, charger of big Cloudbreak.
  • @mahareta – Volcom team, blends art + surf.
  • @oceanramsey – Patagonia ambassador, marine biologist & shark guru.

📊 Comparing Women’s Surf Brands: Features, Fit, and Functionality

Video: What Are Good Surf Apparel Brands For Women? – Action Sports Arena.

Brand Warmth Tech Stretch Eco Score Best For
Roxy Primaloft® BIO™ 4-way 90 % 9/10 Eco-minded fashionistas
Rip Curl E5+ lining 100 % 7/10 Performance junkies
O’Neill TechnoButter 3 130 % 7/10 Cold-water chargers
Patagonia Yulex natural 100 % 10/10 Planet protectors
Billabong Furnace Carbon 80 % 8/10 All-round value

🎁 Gift Ideas: Best Surf Brand Products for Women

Video: Brianna Cope – Retro Boom Review.

  • Roxy 3/2 Swell Natural – eco, cute, warm.
  • Dakine Daylight surf bag – saves boards from airline abuse.
  • Seafolly Active surf bikini – stays put in overhead surf.
  • Patagonia Yulex gloves – keeps fingers from falling off in February.
  • FCS Freedom leash 6 ft – coiled, tangle-free.

📍 Where to Buy Women’s Surf Brands: Online and In-Store Options

Video: Reef Women’s Marketing Director Lindy Williams talks Ugandal Sandal @surfexpo 2011.

Online

  • Amazon – widest size range, fast shipping.
  • Backcountry / Evo – deep gear knowledge, price-match.
  • Brand direct – newest drops, loyalty points.

Brick-and-Mortar

  • Local surf shops – try on, support community.
  • REI – Patagonia, O’Neill, plus dividend returns.
  • Dick’s / Walmart – budget-friendly Body Glove, Hurley.

Pro tip: Try in-store, buy online? Check return policy; some brands charge restock fees for wetsuits.

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions About Women’s Surf Brands

Video: Samantha Wills for Billabong – A Surf Luxe Jewelry Collection.

Q: Do women-specific wetsuits really fit differently?
A: Yes—narrower shoulders, wider hips, higher waist than men’s cuts. Brands like Roxy and Rip Curl draft off female body-scan data.

Q: Cheapest eco-friendly option?
A: Vissla Eco-Zen 3/2 mm; recycled oyster shell yarn keeps price lower than Patagonia.

Q: Can I surf in a regular bikini?
A: You can, but expect nip-slides and lost bottoms. Surf bikinis use silicone grip and crossed back straps.

Q: How long should a wetsuit last?
A: 250–350 sessions if you rinse & drip-dry. Surfing 3× weekly = ~2.5 years.

Q: What’s the warmest women’s suit on the market?
A: Patagonia’s R5 Yulex 5.5/4.5 mm—rated to 5 °C.

Q: Are Amazon wetsuits legit?
A: Only if sold/shipped by brand or authorised dealer. Check seller reviews; counterfeit neoprene is stretchy once then turns cardboard.

Q: Is the first YouTube video worth watching?
A: Absolutely—tap here to jump to our featured video summary for quick visual breakdowns of Roxy, Hurley, O’Neill and more.

🏁 Conclusion: Catch Your Perfect Wave with the Right Surf Brand

a woman in a wet suit carrying a surfboard

After riding the waves with the top surf brands for women in 2024, it’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—your perfect surf brand depends on your style, water temps, eco values, and budget. From Roxy’s eco-conscious, stylish wetsuits to Patagonia’s planet-friendly Yulex innovations, and Rip Curl’s performance-driven tech, the market offers something for every wave warrior.

Positives across the board:
✅ Innovative materials like recycled fibers and natural rubber
✅ Tailored fits that honor female anatomy
✅ Stylish designs that don’t sacrifice function
✅ Growing commitment to sustainability

Drawbacks to consider:
❌ Some eco-friendly suits come at a premium price
❌ Sizing can vary—always try before you buy or check return policies
❌ Certain brands lean more fashion-forward, which may not suit hardcore surfers

If you’re chasing warmth and flexibility, Roxy’s 5/4 Swell Natural and Patagonia’s R5 Yulex are standouts. For budget-conscious beginners, Body Glove’s Pr1me wetsuit offers solid protection without breaking the bank. And if you want to make a statement on and off the board, Volcom’s bold prints and Amuse Society’s boho-chic bikinis will turn heads.

Remember our early question about whether women-specific wetsuits truly fit differently? The answer is a resounding yes—brands that invest in female-specific cuts make a tangible difference in comfort and performance. So don’t settle for “men’s small” and expect magic.

Ready to upgrade your surfwear? Dive into our Surf Brand Guides for more expert insights and gear reviews.


👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Books to Stoke Your Surf Passion:

  • “Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life” by William Finnegan — Amazon Link
  • “The Wave: In Pursuit of the Rogues, Freaks, and Giants of the Ocean” by Susan Casey — Amazon Link
  • “Surfing: A History of the Ancient Hawaiian Sport” by Ben R. Finney and James D. Houston — Amazon Link

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions About Women’s Surf Brands

Video: 2019 Ronix Women’s Carbon Air Core 3 Skimmer Wakesurf Board.

Are there any women-owned surf brands that offer unique and functional clothing?

Yes! Brands like Amuse Society, founded by women, blend boho-chic aesthetics with functional surfwear designed for female surfers. They focus on versatile pieces that transition from surf to street. Additionally, smaller boutique brands often led by women emphasize sustainable fabrics and female-specific fits, filling gaps left by larger corporations.

What are the top surf brands for women’s beachwear and swimwear?

Seafolly and Billabong dominate this space with collections that balance style, sun protection, and durability. Seafolly’s UPF 50+ fabrics and secure fits make their bikinis and one-pieces favorites for active surfers. Billabong offers trendy, surf-inspired beachwear that doubles as casual wear, perfect for post-surf hangouts.

Do any surf brands cater specifically to women’s surf competitions?

Yes, brands like Roxy and Rip Curl sponsor and outfit female pro surfers, designing gear tailored for high-performance competition. Their wetsuits and boardshorts prioritize flexibility, quick-drying materials, and durability to meet the demands of elite athletes.

Which surf brands have the most stylish women’s wetsuits?

Roxy and Volcom lead in combining fashion-forward designs with technical performance. Roxy’s collections often feature vibrant prints and eco-conscious fabrics, while Volcom’s bold color-blocking and streetwear influences make their wetsuits stand out on the lineup.

What surf brands offer plus-size women’s clothing?

Plus-size options are growing but still limited. Brands like Billabong and Roxy have started expanding their size ranges, offering boardshorts and rash guards in extended sizes. For wetsuits, custom-fit options from local shapers or specialty brands may be necessary.

Are there any eco-friendly surf brands for women?

Absolutely! Patagonia is the gold standard with their Yulex natural rubber wetsuits and fair-trade manufacturing. Roxy incorporates recycled fibers and Primaloft® BIO™ insulation. Vissla uses innovative recycled materials like oyster shells. These brands prove you can surf sustainably without sacrificing performance.

What are the best surf clothing brands for women?

For all-around surf apparel, Roxy, Billabong, and O’Neill offer comprehensive lines of wetsuits, rash guards, boardshorts, and accessories designed specifically for women, blending comfort, durability, and style.

What are the best surf brands for women in 2024?

Our top picks include Roxy for eco-conscious style, Rip Curl for performance innovation, Patagonia for sustainability, and Billabong for versatile surf lifestyle gear. Each brand shines in different areas, so your choice depends on your priorities.

Which surf brands offer sustainable options for women?

See above for Patagonia, Roxy, and Vissla. Additionally, Hurley and Volcom have launched eco-friendly lines using recycled materials and water-saving production methods.

What are the top affordable surf brands for women?

Body Glove and FCS offer quality wetsuits and accessories at accessible price points, making them great for beginners or budget-conscious surfers. Walmart and Amazon often stock these brands with frequent discounts.

Which surf brands specialize in women’s wetsuits?

Roxy, Rip Curl, O’Neill, Billabong, and Patagonia are leaders in women’s wetsuit design, offering a range of thicknesses, entry styles, and eco-friendly options tailored to female surfers.

How do women’s surf brands differ from men’s brands?

Women’s surf brands focus on female-specific body shapes—narrower shoulders, wider hips, shorter torsos—and often incorporate softer, more flexible neoprene for comfort. They also prioritize style and colorways that resonate with women, plus sizing that reflects female proportions.

What new surf brands for women are gaining popularity?

Emerging brands like Vissla and Amuse Society are gaining traction for their sustainable practices and fresh designs. Smaller boutique brands focusing on inclusivity and eco-consciousness are also on the rise.

Where can I buy authentic women’s surf gear from top brands?

The safest bets are official brand websites (e.g., Roxy, Billabong, Patagonia) and reputable retailers like Amazon, Backcountry, and REI. Always verify seller authenticity and return policies to avoid counterfeits.


For more expert surf brand guides and lifestyle tips, visit our Surf Brand Guides and Surf Fashion categories.

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