Rip Curl is an Australian surfwear and lifestyle brand best known for its high-performance wetsuits, surfing apparel, watches, travel gear, and accessories. Founded in 1969 in Torquay, the company has grown from a small surfboard workshop into one of the world’s most recognized surfing brands. Rip Curl describes itself as “The Ultimate Surfing Company”, reflecting its long-standing focus on surf culture, product innovation, and adventure-driven lifestyles. [1] [2]

• Founded: 1969

• Founders: Doug ‘Claw’ Warbrick and Brian Singer

• Headquarters: Torquay

• Industry: Surfwear, sportswear, outdoor apparel

• Products: Wetsuits, boardshorts, swimwear, casual clothing, watches, backpacks, luggage, accessories

• Parent company: KMD Brands (formerly Kathmandu Holdings)

• Slogan: _The Search_ [1] [2]

Rip Curl was established in March 1969 when friends Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer decided to start making surfboards together in Torquay, a coastal town famous for its surf breaks, including Bells Beach. The business originally operated from a small garage, producing handcrafted surfboards for local surfers. [1] [2]

Soon after, the founders expanded into wetsuit manufacturing. At the time, wetsuits were largely adapted from diving equipment, and Rip Curl focused on designing lighter, warmer, and more flexible suits specifically for surfers. This innovation helped establish the brand as a technical leader in surfing equipment. [2]

During the 1970s and 1980s, Rip Curl expanded internationally while maintaining its identity as a surfer-owned company. The brand invested heavily in research, athlete sponsorships, and surf event organization, contributing significantly to professional surfing’s global growth. [1]

In 2019, after celebrating its 50th anniversary, Rip Curl was acquired by KMD Brands, a New Zealand-based outdoor company, while continuing to operate under the Rip Curl brand. [2]

Rip Curl’s philosophy revolves around “The Search,” a concept introduced in the early years of the company. Rather than simply referring to surfing, “The Search” represents the pursuit of perfect waves, adventure, exploration, and personal freedom. [1]

This philosophy influences:

• Product design

• Athlete sponsorships

• Travel documentaries

• Surf competitions

• Marketing campaigns

The Search has become one of the most recognizable themes in the surfing world and remains central to Rip Curl’s identity. [1]

Rip Curl manufactures a broad range of surfing and lifestyle products, including:

Surf Equipment

• High-performance wetsuits

• Surfboard accessories

• Rash guards

• Surf ponchos

Apparel

• T-shirts

• Hoodies

• Jackets

• Boardshorts

• Swimwear

• Dresses

• Pants

• Shirts

Accessories

• Watches

• Sunglasses

• Backpacks

• Travel luggage

• Wallets

• Hats

• Beach towels

Its wetsuits are especially well known for technical features such as advanced neoprene materials, thermal linings, waterproof seams, and flexible construction designed for a wide range of water temperatures. [1]

Rip Curl has introduced numerous surfing technologies, including developments in:

• Stretch neoprene

• Seam-sealing techniques

• Lightweight wetsuit construction

• Thermal insulation systems

• Surf watches featuring tide, moon phase, and surf-condition functions

The company invests heavily in research and development to improve surfer performance and comfort in the water. [1]

Rip Curl has sponsored many of the world’s leading surfers and has organized or supported major surfing events for decades. [1]

Notable athletes associated with the brand include:

• Mick Fanning

• Stephanie Gilmore

• Gabriel Medina

• Tyler Wright

• Tom Curren

Rip Curl also sponsors prestigious competitions, particularly the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach, one of the longest-running professional surfing events in the world. The company was the first surf brand to sponsor a professional surfing competition there in 1973. [1]

Rip Curl products are sold in more than 60 countries through:

• Company-owned retail stores

• Surf shops

• Sporting goods retailers

• Department stores

• Online stores

The brand has a particularly strong presence in Australia, Europe, North America, South America, Japan, Indonesia, and South Africa. [1]

Rip Curl has introduced initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact, including:

• Increasing the use of recycled materials

• Developing more environmentally conscious wetsuit manufacturing methods

• Supporting ocean conservation efforts

• Reducing packaging waste

These efforts reflect growing attention to sustainability within the surf and outdoor industries. [1]

More than five decades after its founding, Rip Curl remains one of the “Big Three” heritage surf brands, alongside Billabong and Quiksilver. The company is widely respected for combining technical surf innovation with a lifestyle centered on exploration, ocean culture, and adventure. [1]

Its influence extends beyond apparel, helping shape modern surfing through athlete development, product innovation, international competitions, and the enduring philosophy of The Search. [1]

1. About Rip Curl | Ultimate Surfing Company | Rip Curl Australia

2. Rip Curl