Surf trend

Europe and Asia aren’t far behind: Scotland’s Lost Shore resort opened in late 2024 and hosts surf therapy programs, and massive heated surf lagoons are planned in New Zealand. Classic. It features aggressive nose and tail rocker, medium rails, and a single to double concave bottom shape. That story and more await you below!

Key Takeaways

• Sustainability is the new standard: Leading emerging brands like Outerknown and Vissla are pioneering eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing.
• Innovation drives performance: Firewire Surfboards and YOW Surf are examples of brands pushing the boundaries with new board constructions and surfskate technology.
• Authenticity and community matter: Many new brands are founded by surfers for surfers, focusing on culture and storytelling rather than just sales.
• Niche specialization offers tailored gear: From cold-water wetsuits by Finisterre to vintage-inspired women’s surfwear by Seea, there’s something for every surfer.
• Discover these brands at trade shows, local shops, and online: Surf Expo and social media are hotspots for spotting the freshest surf gear and apparel.

Ready to upgrade your surf gear and support the future of surfing?

Need we say more?

It’s impossible to talk about emerging brands without putting Outerknown at the top. We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how surf products are made, from sourcing to production.

This isn’t just a trend; it’s the future.

That’s right, wave-riding no longer needs nature. The unique lattice structure inspired by algae nanostructures provides enhanced durability and flexibility.

Emerging brands tend to offer more innovative materials and designs tailored to specific surfer needs. Collaborating with an incredible roster of artists, photographers, and designers, every towel is a work of art. They felt amazing, dried in minutes, and survived the rest of the trip without a single loose thread. Polyurethane foam, toxic resins, petroleum-based neoprene… it was a messy business.

As surfers, our connection to nature is profound. With 35 million surfers globally, the sport has captured imaginations far from its origins. They’re the gatekeepers of the local scene and often the first to bring in a cool, new brand they believe in. These small changes make a big difference.

🌱 The Green Wave: How Sustainability is Shaping New Surf Brands

Let’s be blunt: for decades, the surf industry wasn’t exactly eco-friendly.

Thanks to advances in wetsuit technology, more people can surf in places like the UK and Northern Europe, significantly expanding the sport’s reach.

The Mental and Physical Benefits of Surfing

Beyond the thrill of catching a wave, surfing offers profound mental and physical health benefits.

Brands like Billabong and Quiksilver have transcended their coastal roots, reaching a broad audience and creating a surf-lifestyle market that extends beyond the sport itself.