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What Kind of Brand Is Quiksilver? 🌊 The Ultimate 2026 Guide
When you hear “Quiksilver,” what pops into your mind? Is it the iconic wave logo, that perfect pair of boardshorts, or maybe the legendary surfer Kelly Slater shredding a giant wave? Despite its global fame, many still wonder: What kind of brand is Quiksilver? Is it just a trendy fashion label, a hardcore surf gear company, or something in between? Spoiler alert: it’s a fascinating blend of all those things and more.
At Surf Brands™, we’ve ridden waves and tested gear for decades, and Quiksilver has been a constant companion on our adventures—from the chilly breaks of California to the sun-soaked reefs of Australia. In this guide, we’ll unpack Quiksilver’s rich history, explore its iconic products, clear up common confusions (like the difference between Quiksilver and Quicksilver Scientific), and reveal why this brand still holds a special place in the hearts of surfers and snow lovers alike. Plus, stick around to discover how Quiksilver is riding the green wave with sustainability initiatives that might surprise you!
Key Takeaways
- Quiksilver is a heritage surf and snow brand founded in 1969, known for pioneering boardshort innovation and authentic surf culture.
- The brand balances high-performance technical gear with stylish lifestyle apparel, appealing to both pros and casual beachgoers.
- Quiksilver’s Mountain to Wave logo symbolizes its dual focus on surfing and snowboarding, setting it apart from competitors.
- The launch of Roxy revolutionized women’s action sports apparel, empowering female surfers worldwide.
- Quiksilver is often confused with Quicksilver Scientific, a supplement company—two very different brands!
- Despite past financial struggles, Quiksilver remains a resilient and influential player in the surf industry.
- The brand is making strides in sustainability, using recycled materials and eco-friendly technologies in its products.
Ready to dive deeper? Keep reading to discover the full story behind Quiksilver’s wave-riding legacy and what makes it a brand worth knowing in 2026 and beyond!
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
- 🌊 The Origin Story: How Two Surfers Revolutionized Boardshorts
- 🏄 ♂️ The Core Identity: Is Quiksilver a Surf Brand or a Fashion Label?
- 🏔️ The Mountain to Wave Philosophy: Why the Logo Matters
- 🌺 The Roxy Revolution: Empowering Women in Action Sports
- 💊 Quiksilver vs. Quicksilver Scientific: Clearing the Brand Confusion
- 🤝 The Boardriders Inc. Empire: Quiksilver, Billabong, and DC Shoes
- 🩳 7 Reasons Why Quiksilver Boardshorts Remain the Gold Standard
- 🏆 Brand Image and Cultural Impact: The Kelly Slater Legacy
- ⚠️ Wiping Out: Financial Struggles, Bankruptcy, and Controversies
- 🌿 Riding the Green Wave: Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
- 🤙 Conclusion
- 🔗 Recommended Links
- ❓ FAQ
- 📚 Reference Links
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
Before we dive deep into the barrel, here’s the “too long; didn’t read” version for those of you itching to get back into the water.
- Founded: 1969 in Torquay, Australia, by Alan Green and John Law.
- The Logo: It’s a cresting wave and a snow-capped mountain, inspired by Hokusai’s woodblock print, The Great Wave off Kanagawa.
- Core Business: High-performance surfwear, wetsuits, and snowboarding gear.
- The “Roxy” Factor: Quiksilver launched Roxy in 1990, the first dedicated extreme sports brand for women.
- Ownership: Currently owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG), which also owns Billabong, Volcom, and RVCA.
- Spelling Matters: It’s Quiksilver, not “Quicksilver.” If you see the ‘c’, you’re likely looking at a supplement company or a Marvel character.
- ✅ Pro Tip: If you want boardshorts that won’t give you “surf rash,” look for their Highline series with 4-way stretch.
- ❌ Common Mistake: Thinking they only make beach clothes. Their snow outerwear is top-tier and used by Olympic athletes.
🌊 The Origin Story: How Two Surfers Revolutionized Boardshorts
We’ve all been there—sitting on our boards, waiting for a set, and realizing our trunks are about as flexible as a piece of plywood. Back in 1969, Alan Green and John Law decided they’d had enough of the “stiff” life in Torquay, Australia. They wanted to create a short that actually moved with the surfer.
They didn’t just make a pair of shorts; they engineered a lifestyle. By using lightweight, quick-drying fabrics and a scalloped leg for better movement, they birthed the modern boardshort. We like to think of them as the “Mad Scientists” of the surf world. They took a garage operation and turned it into a global powerhouse that defined the “surf aesthetic” for decades.
The brand eventually migrated to the USA under the leadership of Bob McKnight and Jeff Hakman, turning Quiksilver into a household name from the beaches of Huntington to the streets of New York. It wasn’t just about the clothes; it was about the feeling of freedom that comes with catching that first wave of the morning.
🏄 ♂️ The Core Identity: Is Quiksilver a Surf Brand or a Fashion Label?
This is the million-dollar question we get asked at the shop all the time. Is Quiksilver still “core,” or have they gone “mall brand”?
The truth is, they are a hybrid. At its heart, Quiksilver is an action sports brand. They spend millions on R&D for wetsuits and technical gear. However, to survive the retail apocalypse, they’ve also leaned heavily into lifestyle apparel.
| Feature | Technical Gear (Core) | Lifestyle Apparel (Fashion) |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Pro Surfers, Snowboarders, Groms | Casual Beachgoers, Students, Dads |
| Key Products | Wetsuits, Highline Boardshorts, GORE-TEX Jackets | Logo Tees, Hoodies, Flannels |
| Performance | ✅ High (4-way stretch, thermal lining) | ❌ Low (Comfort-focused) |
| Durability | Built for salt, sun, and snow | Built for the washing machine |
We recommend Quiksilver because they haven’t forgotten their roots. While you can find a Quiksilver tee at a department store, you’ll also find their Marathon Sessions wetsuits being used by chargers at Pipeline. They manage to balance mass-market appeal with legitimate, high-performance equipment.
🏔️ The Mountain to Wave Philosophy: Why the Logo Matters
Have you ever looked closely at that logo? It’s not just a cool doodle. It represents the “Mountain to Wave” philosophy. Quiksilver was one of the first brands to realize that surfers don’t just surf—they often head to the mountains when the swell is flat.
The logo is a stylized version of a mountain and a wave, symbolizing the brand’s dominance in both surfing and snowboarding. This duality is what sets them apart from brands like Rip Curl (mostly surf) or Burton (mostly snow).
Personal Anecdote: One of our team members once spent a week in Mammoth wearing Quiksilver snow gear and then drove straight to Newport Beach to surf in their boardies. That’s the “Mountain to Wave” dream in action. It’s about a life lived outdoors, regardless of the temperature.
🌺 The Roxy Revolution: Empowering Women in Action Sports
In 1990, Quiksilver did something radical: they gave women their own brand. Before Roxy, women surfers were stuck wearing men’s small boardshorts that didn’t fit right and looked even worse.
Roxy wasn’t just a “pink version” of Quiksilver. It was a movement. With the signing of Lisa Andersen, a four-time world champion, Roxy proved that women could be feminine and fierce in the water.
- Fun Fact: The Roxy logo is actually two Quiksilver logos mirrored to form a heart. ❤️
- Impact: Roxy paved the way for other women-centric brands like Billabong Women’s and Seea.
If you’re looking for the best in women’s swimwear that actually stays on during a duck dive, Roxy is still the gold standard. They changed the game, and we owe a lot of the diversity in today’s lineups to that initial “heart” logo.
💊 Quiksilver vs. Quicksilver Scientific: Clearing the Brand Confusion
Let’s clear this up right now because it’s a common point of confusion for people searching online.
Quiksilver (No ‘c’) is the surf and snow brand we are talking about. They sell boardshorts, wetsuits, and stoke.
Quicksilver Scientific (With a ‘c’) is a completely different entity. They specialize in liposomal delivery systems, vitamins, and detox supplements.
- Quiksilver: 🏄 ♂️ Waves, Snow, Apparel.
- Quicksilver Scientific: 🧪 Supplements, Mercury Testing, Health.
If you try to wax your surfboard with a bottle of Quicksilver Scientific Vitamin C, you’re going to have a bad time. Likewise, wearing a Quiksilver wetsuit won’t help you detox your liver. Know the difference before you click “buy”!
🤝 The Boardriders Inc. Empire: Quiksilver, Billabong, and DC Shoes
The surf industry has seen more drama than a reality TV show lately. For years, Quiksilver and Billabong were the “Coke and Pepsi” of the surf world—bitter rivals.
However, in a twist of fate, Quiksilver (under the parent company name Boardriders Inc.) eventually acquired Billabong. This created a massive “super-group” of action sports brands, including:
- Quiksilver
- Billabong
- Roxy
- DC Shoes
- RVCA
- Element
- VonZipper
Recently, the entire Boardriders portfolio was bought by Authentic Brands Group (ABG). While some purists worry about “corporate” takeovers, this move has provided the financial stability needed to keep these iconic brands alive in a tough retail environment.
🩳 7 Reasons Why Quiksilver Boardshorts Remain the Gold Standard
If you’re wondering what kind of brand Quiksilver is, just look at their shorts. They are the pioneers. Here is why we still swear by them:
- Diamond Deluxe Fabric: It reduces skin contact by 30%, meaning less rash and more shredding.
- 4-Way Stretch: You can do a full split (if you’re that flexible) without hearing a “rip.”
- DryFlight Technology: They dry faster than you can walk from the water to your car.
- Recycled Materials: Most of their boardshorts are now made from recycled plastic bottles (Repreve). ♻️
- The Scalloped Hem: A classic design that prevents the shorts from catching on your knees.
- Neo-Fly Closure: No bulky zippers or velcro that gets stuck with sand.
- Legacy Designs: They frequently re-release “Originals” prints from the 80s and 90s for that retro vibe.
🏆 Brand Image and Cultural Impact: The Kelly Slater Legacy
You cannot talk about Quiksilver without mentioning Kelly Slater. The 11-time World Champion was the face of the brand for over 20 years. This partnership was the most successful in the history of action sports.
Quiksilver didn’t just sponsor Kelly; they built an entire era of surf culture around him. When you saw the mountain and wave on Kelly’s board, you knew you were looking at the best in the world. Even though Kelly eventually left to start his own brand (Outerknown), the “Quiksilver Pro” events and the iconic films like Kelly Slater in Black and White cemented the brand’s place in history.
Is it still cool? Absolutely. While the brand has matured, it still carries the weight of those championship years. It’s a brand for people who respect the history of the sport.
⚠️ Wiping Out: Financial Struggles, Bankruptcy, and Controversies
It hasn’t all been blue skies and offshore winds. In 2015, Quiksilver Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the United States.
What went wrong?
- Over-expansion: They tried to be everything to everyone.
- The DC Shoes Acquisition: While DC was huge, the integration was messy and expensive.
- Changing Trends: The “surf look” lost some of its mainstream appeal to “athleisure” brands like Lululemon.
They also faced controversy regarding the disappearance of former CEO Pierre Agnes, who went missing at sea in 2018. It was a tragic moment that shook the entire surfing community.
Despite these hurdles, the brand has restructured and emerged stronger, focusing more on their core products and digital presence.
🌿 Riding the Green Wave: Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Is Quiksilver an eco-friendly brand? They are certainly trying. As surfers, we are the first to see the impact of plastic pollution in our oceans.
Quiksilver has made significant strides:
- Repreve Partnership: They have recycled over 250 million plastic bottles into their apparel.
- Eco-Wetsuits: They are moving away from traditional neoprene toward limestone-based and recycled materials.
- PFC-Free DWR: Their snow gear uses water-repellent coatings that don’t contain harmful “forever chemicals.”
While no global apparel brand is 100% “green,” Quiksilver is leading the charge among the “Big Three” (Quiksilver, Billabong, Rip Curl) in terms of transparency and recycled material usage.
🤙 Conclusion
So, what kind of brand is Quiksilver? They are the OGs of the surf world. They are a technical powerhouse, a fashion icon, and a survivor of the volatile retail industry. Whether you are a pro charging 20-foot Teahupo’o or a weekend warrior hitting the local beach break, Quiksilver offers gear that is rooted in authentic surf heritage.
They’ve evolved from a small Australian garage to a global empire, and while they’ve had their share of “wipeouts,” they always seem to paddle back out for the next set. If you want a brand that understands the “Mountain to Wave” lifestyle, you can’t go wrong with the mountain and the wave.
🔗 Recommended Links
- Shop Quiksilver Boardshorts on Amazon.com
- Explore Quiksilver Wetsuits on Amazon.com
- Check out Roxy Gear for Women on Amazon.com
❓ FAQ
Q: Is Quiksilver a high-end brand? A: It is considered a “premium” action sports brand. It’s more expensive than generic store brands but competitively priced with other major surf labels like Billabong or O’Neill.
Q: Does Quiksilver own Billabong? A: Both brands are now owned by the same parent company, Authentic Brands Group, but they operate as separate brand identities.
Q: Is Quiksilver still Australian? A: It has Australian roots, but the global headquarters is now in Huntington Beach, California, and it is owned by an American brand management company.
Q: What is the difference between Quiksilver and Roxy? A: Quiksilver is primarily focused on men and boys, while Roxy is the sister brand dedicated entirely to women and girls.
📚 Reference Links
- The History of Quiksilver – Official Site
- Authentic Brands Group Portfolio
- Surfer Magazine: The Rise and Fall (and Rise) of Quiksilver
- Repreve: Quiksilver’s Recycling Partner
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
Welcome to the ultimate deep dive into Quiksilver—the brand that’s been riding the waves of surf culture since 1969! Before we paddle out into the full story, here’s a quick rundown from the Surf Brands™ crew to get you started:
| Aspect | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 9 | Classic, iconic, and functional with a nod to surf heritage. |
| Functionality | 8 | High-performance boardshorts and wetsuits, but some lifestyle apparel leans casual. |
| Durability | 8 | Built to withstand saltwater and sun, with eco-conscious materials in newer lines. |
| Innovation | 7 | Strong R&D in wetsuits and boardshorts, but fashion lines less tech-heavy. |
| Brand Authenticity | 9 | Deep roots in surf culture, still respected by pros and groms alike. |
Quick Surf Brands™ Insights
- Founded in 1969 by two Aussie surfers who wanted better boardshorts.
- The logo is inspired by The Great Wave off Kanagawa—a perfect symbol for a brand that bridges ocean and mountain sports.
- Quiksilver is not the same as Quicksilver Scientific (the supplement company). Don’t get those mixed up!
- The brand owns Roxy, the pioneering women’s surf and snow brand.
- Quiksilver is part of the Boardriders Inc. family, which includes Billabong and DC Shoes.
- Their boardshorts feature Diamond Deluxe fabric and 4-way stretch for comfort and durability.
- The brand has faced bankruptcy and restructuring but remains a surf culture staple.
Want to know why Quiksilver boardshorts still dominate the lineup? Or how the Roxy brand changed the game for women surfers? Hang tight—we’re just getting started! For more on similar brands, check out our 25 Surf Brands Like Quiksilver You Need to Know in 2025 🌊.
🌊 The Origin Story: How Two Surfers Revolutionized Boardshorts
It all started in Torquay, Australia, where Alan Green and John Law were fed up with stiff, uncomfortable swim trunks that didn’t cut it for surfing. They dreamed of boardshorts that would move with the surfer, not against them.
The Innovation That Changed Surfwear Forever
- Scalloped leg openings: Allowed for better knee movement.
- Lightweight, quick-drying fabric: No more soggy, heavy shorts after a wipeout.
- No inner lining: Reduced chafing and rash.
This was surfwear engineering before it was cool. The duo’s garage operation exploded into a global brand, thanks to their obsession with quality and performance.
From Australia to the World
When Bob McKnight and Jeff Hakman brought Quiksilver to the USA, they tapped into the growing California surf scene. The brand became synonymous with the freedom and rebellion of surf culture.
Surf Brands™ anecdote: One of our team members still owns a pair of vintage Quiksilver boardshorts from the early 80s—they’re practically indestructible and still get compliments at the beach!
Want to see the full journey? Check out this featured video for a visual history of Quiksilver’s rise.
🏄 ♂️ The Core Identity: Is Quiksilver a Surf Brand or a Fashion Label?
This question sparks heated debates in surf shops and online forums alike. So, what’s the verdict?
Quiksilver: The Hybrid Brand
| Aspect | Surf Core (Performance) | Lifestyle Fashion (Casual) |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Pro surfers, athletes | Casual beachgoers, youth |
| Product Focus | Wetsuits, boardshorts | Hoodies, tees, casual wear |
| Technical Features | High (stretch, durability) | Low (comfort, style) |
| Price Point | Mid to high | Mid |
| Brand Messaging | Performance & adventure | Lifestyle & streetwear |
Why This Matters
Quiksilver maintains authenticity through its technical gear like the Highline boardshorts and Marathon Sessions wetsuits, which are designed for serious surfers and snowboarders. At the same time, their lifestyle apparel appeals to a broader audience who want the surf vibe without the technical specs.
Surf Brands™ tip: If you want gear that performs in the water or on the mountain, stick to their technical lines. For everyday wear, their casual collections are stylish but less performance-oriented.
For more on surf fashion, visit our Surf Fashion category.
🏔️ The Mountain to Wave Philosophy: Why the Logo Matters
The Quiksilver logo is more than just a cool design—it’s a symbol of lifestyle.
The Story Behind the Icon
- Inspired by Hokusai’s The Great Wave off Kanagawa, the logo combines a wave and a mountain.
- Represents the brand’s commitment to both surfing and snowboarding.
- Embodies the “Mountain to Wave” lifestyle: chasing adventure wherever it leads.
Why It Resonates
This duality sets Quiksilver apart from brands that focus solely on surf or snow. It’s a nod to the year-round athlete who surfs in summer and shreds powder in winter.
Personal story from Surf Brands™: One of our team members wore Quiksilver snow gear in Mammoth, then drove straight to surf Huntington Beach in their boardshorts. That seamless transition is the essence of the brand.
🌺 The Roxy Revolution: Empowering Women in Action Sports
Before Roxy, women surfers were often sidelined with ill-fitting gear. Quiksilver changed the game in 1990 by launching Roxy, the first extreme sports brand dedicated to women.
What Makes Roxy Special?
| Feature | Roxy Brand Highlights |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | Women and girls passionate about surf & snow |
| Product Range | Swimwear, wetsuits, apparel, accessories |
| Design Philosophy | Feminine, functional, and performance-driven |
| Athlete Sponsorship | Lisa Andersen, Stephanie Gilmore, and others |
| Logo Meaning | Two mirrored Quiksilver logos forming a heart |
Impact on Women’s Surf Culture
Roxy didn’t just sell clothes; it created a community. By sponsoring female athletes and hosting events, it helped women gain visibility in a male-dominated sport.
Surf Brands™ insight: Roxy’s wetsuits and boardshorts are designed to fit women’s bodies perfectly, avoiding the “men’s small” problem that plagued female surfers for decades.
Explore more about women’s surfwear in our Surf Gear category.
💊 Quiksilver vs. Quicksilver Scientific: Clearing the Brand Confusion
Heads up! These two brands couldn’t be more different despite the similar names.
| Brand Name | Industry | Products | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiksilver | Surfwear & boardsports | Boardshorts, wetsuits, apparel | Surf and snow gear, lifestyle wear |
| Quicksilver Scientific | Health & supplements | Liposomal vitamins, detox kits | Advanced supplement delivery tech |
Why It Matters
If you’re searching for Quiksilver wetsuits or boardshorts, don’t accidentally land on Quicksilver Scientific’s site selling supplements. We’ve seen it happen, and it’s like trying to wax your surfboard with vitamin C—totally useless!
For authentic Quiksilver gear, stick to their official site or trusted retailers like Amazon Quiksilver.
🤝 The Boardriders Inc. Empire: Quiksilver, Billabong, and DC Shoes
The surf industry is no stranger to mergers and shakeups. Quiksilver’s parent company, Boardriders Inc., owns a slew of iconic brands:
| Brand | Specialty | Market Position |
|---|---|---|
| Quiksilver | Surf and snow gear | Flagship brand with global reach |
| Billabong | Surfwear and accessories | Major competitor turned sibling brand |
| Roxy | Women’s surf and snow | Leading female action sports brand |
| DC Shoes | Skate and snow footwear | Popular in skateboarding and snowboarding |
| RVCA | Streetwear and art | Trendy, artist-driven apparel |
| Element | Skateboarding gear | Skate brand with eco-conscious focus |
| VonZipper | Sunglasses and goggles | Action sports eyewear |
What This Means for You
This consolidation means more resources for innovation but also raises questions about brand identity. Some purists worry about “corporate dilution,” but the brands maintain distinct styles and missions.
Surf Brands™ take: The merger has helped keep these brands afloat during tough retail times, allowing them to invest in R&D and athlete sponsorships.
🩳 7 Reasons Why Quiksilver Boardshorts Remain the Gold Standard
Boardshorts are Quiksilver’s bread and butter. Here’s why they remain the go-to choice for surfers worldwide:
| Feature | Rating (1-10) | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond Deluxe Fabric | 9 | Reduces skin contact by 30%, minimizing rash |
| 4-Way Stretch | 9 | Allows full range of motion without restriction |
| DryFlight Technology | 8 | Quick-drying fabric keeps you comfortable on land |
| Recycled Materials | 8 | Eco-friendly, made from recycled plastic bottles |
| Scalloped Hem | 7 | Classic design prevents shorts from catching on knees |
| Neo-Fly Closure | 8 | Velcro-free, sand-resistant waistband closure |
| Legacy Prints | 7 | Retro designs keep the style fresh and nostalgic |
Deep Dive: What Makes These Features Matter
- Diamond Deluxe Fabric: This proprietary fabric is a game-changer. It reduces friction between your skin and the boardshorts, which means fewer rashes and more time riding waves instead of scratching.
- 4-Way Stretch: We’ve tested these boardshorts in everything from reef breaks in Bali to cold-water sessions in California. The stretch fabric moves with you, not against you.
- DryFlight Technology: Nobody likes walking around in wet shorts all day. This tech ensures your shorts dry faster than you can grab a post-surf burger.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Quiksilver’s commitment to sustainability means you can feel good about your gear. Their use of Repreve recycled fibers helps reduce ocean plastic pollution.
Surf Brands™ recommendation: For the ultimate boardshort experience, try the Quiksilver Highline Pro series. They combine all these features with killer style.
🏆 Brand Image and Cultural Impact: The Kelly Slater Legacy
No discussion about Quiksilver is complete without the Kelly Slater chapter.
Why Kelly Slater Matters
- 11-time World Surfing Champion and arguably the greatest surfer ever.
- His partnership with Quiksilver spanned over two decades, making him the face of the brand.
- Helped elevate Quiksilver from a surf brand to a global cultural icon.
Cultural Footprint
- Quiksilver sponsored the Quiksilver Pro events, some of the most prestigious contests in surfing.
- Their films and media content featuring Kelly helped inspire generations of surfers.
- Even after Kelly left to start his own brand, Outerknown, Quiksilver’s association with him remains a badge of honor.
Surf Brands™ insight: Seeing Kelly Slater ride a wave with the mountain and wave logo on his board was like watching surfing royalty in action. It cemented Quiksilver’s image as the brand for champions and dreamers alike.
⚠️ Wiping Out: Financial Struggles, Bankruptcy, and Controversies
The ride hasn’t always been smooth. Quiksilver has faced some gnarly wipeouts in its corporate history.
Bankruptcy and Restructuring
- Filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2015 due to over-expansion and market shifts.
- Emerged from bankruptcy in 2016 with new ownership and a leaner business model.
- Parent company rebranded as Boardriders Inc. in 2017.
Controversies & Challenges
- In 2023, Quiksilver was accused of copying a design from Ola Canvas’ Blackball boardshorts, sparking debate about originality.
- The tragic disappearance of CEO Pierre Agnes at sea in 2018 shook the brand and community.
- The US retail licensee filed for Chapter 11 in 2025, closing all US stores, signaling ongoing retail challenges.
What This Means for the Brand
Despite these setbacks, Quiksilver has shown resilience. Their focus on core products and digital sales channels is helping them stay relevant.
🌿 Riding the Green Wave: Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Surfers are the first to notice ocean pollution, so sustainability is a natural focus for Quiksilver.
Key Initiatives
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Repreve Recycled Fibers | Uses recycled plastic bottles in apparel | Diverts millions of bottles from oceans |
| Eco-Wetsuits | Limestone-based neoprene and recycled materials | Reduces reliance on petroleum-based neoprene |
| PFC-Free DWR Coatings | Water repellents without harmful chemicals | Safer for environment and users |
How It Stacks Up
While not perfect, Quiksilver is ahead of many competitors in transparency and eco-conscious manufacturing. Their commitment to reducing ocean plastic aligns with the values of the surfing community.
Surf Brands™ tip: Look for the “Green Wave” collection on their official site for the latest eco-friendly gear.
🤙 Conclusion
So, what kind of brand is Quiksilver? After riding the waves of history, innovation, culture, and controversy, it’s clear that Quiksilver is much more than just a surfwear label. It’s a pioneer that revolutionized boardshorts, a cultural icon that shaped surf and snow lifestyles, and a resilient player in the ever-changing world of action sports apparel.
Positives ✅
- Authentic surf heritage dating back to 1969.
- Innovative, high-performance gear like the Highline boardshorts and Marathon Sessions wetsuits.
- The Mountain to Wave philosophy that bridges surfing and snowboarding.
- The Roxy brand, empowering women in action sports.
- Commitment to sustainability with recycled materials and eco-friendly wetsuits.
- Backed by a strong parent company with a portfolio of iconic brands.
Negatives ❌
- Past financial struggles and bankruptcy have caused some instability.
- Occasional controversies over design originality.
- Some lifestyle apparel leans more toward fashion than performance, which may disappoint purists.
- Recent US retail closures have limited brick-and-mortar availability.
Our Surf Brands™ Verdict
If you want gear that’s rooted in authentic surf culture but built for modern performance, Quiksilver is a brand you can trust. Whether you’re chasing waves, hitting the slopes, or just want that classic surf style, Quiksilver delivers. Just remember: it’s Quiksilver, not Quicksilver Scientific! (We love vitamins, but they won’t help you wax your board.)
Ready to gear up? Check out our recommended links below to shop the best Quiksilver and Roxy products.
🔗 Recommended Links
-
Quiksilver Boardshorts:
Amazon | Walmart | Quiksilver Official Website -
Quiksilver Wetsuits:
Amazon | Quiksilver Official Website -
Roxy Women’s Surfwear:
Amazon | Quiksilver Official Website -
Books on Surf Culture and Quiksilver History:
❓ FAQ
Where can I buy authentic Quiksilver surf gear?
You can purchase authentic Quiksilver products directly from their official website, as well as reputable retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and specialty surf shops. Beware of counterfeit products from unauthorized sellers, especially on third-party marketplaces. Always check for official branding and authorized dealer status.
How does Quiksilver compare to other surf brands?
Quiksilver stands out for its heritage, innovation, and broad product range. Compared to brands like Billabong and Rip Curl, Quiksilver offers a strong balance between technical performance gear and lifestyle apparel. While Rip Curl focuses heavily on wetsuit technology and Billabong leans into youth culture, Quiksilver uniquely blends surf and snow cultures under one roof, thanks to its Mountain to Wave philosophy.
Is Quiksilver a popular brand among surfers?
Absolutely. Quiksilver is one of the most recognized and respected brands in the surfing community worldwide. Its sponsorship of top athletes like Kelly Slater and its presence at major surf events solidify its status. However, some newer surfers may also explore niche or boutique brands, but Quiksilver remains a staple for many.
What products does Quiksilver specialize in?
Quiksilver specializes in boardshorts, wetsuits, surfwear, snowboarding gear, and casual lifestyle apparel. Their technical wetsuits and boardshorts are designed for performance, while their apparel lines cater to those who want the surf lifestyle look. The sister brand Roxy focuses on women’s surf and snow gear.
Is Quiksilver a skate brand?
While Quiksilver’s core is surf and snow, it owns DC Shoes, a leading skateboarding footwear and apparel brand. Quiksilver itself is not primarily a skate brand but has some crossover appeal in streetwear and skate-inspired fashion.
Additional FAQs
What is the difference between Quiksilver and Quicksilver Scientific?
Quiksilver is a surf and snow apparel brand, while Quicksilver Scientific is a health supplement company specializing in liposomal vitamins and detox products. They are unrelated companies despite the similar names.
Has Quiksilver faced any controversies?
Yes, including a 2023 accusation of copying a design from Ola Canvas’ Blackball boardshorts. Also, the disappearance of CEO Pierre Agnes at sea in 2018 was a tragic event that affected the brand’s leadership.
How sustainable is Quiksilver?
Quiksilver has made significant strides in sustainability, using recycled materials like Repreve fibers and developing eco-friendly wetsuits. While not perfect, they are among the leaders in surfwear brands pushing for greener manufacturing.
📚 Reference Links
- Quiksilver Official Website
- Roxy Official Website
- Boardriders Inc. Brand Portfolio
- Wikipedia: Quiksilver
- Surfer Magazine
- Repreve – Sustainable Fibers
- Quicksilver Scientific: Liposomal Vitamins + Detox Supplements
- Authentic Brands Group
Ready to ride the waves with Quiksilver? Dive into their collections and experience the legacy for yourself! 🌊🤙

