Rip Curl isn’t just a surf label—it’s a global symbol of adventure, performance, and ocean culture. Founded in 1969 by surfing friends Brian Singer and Doug “Claw” Warbrick, Rip Curl grew from the Australian surf scene into one of the world’s most recognized surf and snow brands, driven by a single idea: “The Search.”
A Brand Born in Surf Culture
From the beginning, Rip Curl positioned itself as a brand “for the crew on The Search”—surfers chasing the next swell, the next coastline, the next experience. That mindset helped shape everything the brand became known for: not only clothing, but technical surf gear, iconic events, and products designed for life in and around the water.
Performance Gear: Wetsuits That Set the Standard
Rip Curl is especially famous for its wetsuit innovation, offering a wide range of suits for men, women, and kids—from fullsuits and springsuits to hoods, booties, gloves, and cold-water essentials. Lines like Flashbomb and E-Bomb are often highlighted as bestsellers for surfers who want warmth, flexibility, and comfort during long sessions.
Rip Curl’s wetsuit-first heritage keeps it deeply connected to actual surf performance—not just surf-inspired fashion.
“The Eddie”: One of Surfing’s Most Iconic Events
Rip Curl’s cultural credibility is also powered by its involvement with legendary surf events—especially “The Eddie” (Rip Curl Eddie Big Wave Invitational), a prestigious invitational contest held at Waimea Bay and named in honor of Hawaiian legend Eddie Aikau.
“The Eddie” only runs when conditions are truly extreme, making it one of the most respected and dramatic big-wave events in the world—and a core part of Rip Curl’s brand identity.
Technology Meets Surf: Search GPS3 Watch
Rip Curl has also pushed into surf tech with the Search GPS3 watch and companion app—designed to track surf sessions with data like wave count, speed, distance, and more. The product is positioned as a tool for surfers who want to track, relive, compare, and share their sessions within a global community.
A More Responsible Future: Certified B Corp
In addition to performance and culture, Rip Curl has strengthened its sustainability and responsibility positioning by becoming a Certified B Corp in early 2023, signaling verified commitments to higher social and environmental standards.
Beyond Surf: Lifestyle, Snow, and Everyday Wear
While wetsuits remain core, Rip Curl also offers broader lifestyle categories—hoodies, fleece, jackets, boardshorts, swimwear, accessories, bags, and travel gear—built for people who live close to the ocean (or just love the look). Their collections often blend functionality with a relaxed, surf-rooted aesthetic that works well beyond the beach.
Final Take
Rip Curl has lasted because it’s not trying to be everything—it’s staying true to a clear identity: performance surf gear, iconic surf culture, and the spirit of exploration. From its 1969 origins to events like “The Eddie,” and modern tools like the Search GPS3, Rip Curl continues to represent a lifestyle powered by movement, nature, and the endless pull of the next wave.
