Dawn breaks over the coastline, salt hangs in the air, and perfect waves beckon on the horizon. For surfers, this is paradise. But even the most dedicated wave-riders need to come ashore eventually. When they do, they want gear that’s as stylish as it is functional.

After countless hours in and out of the water, testing everything from boardshorts to hoodies, it’s clear which brands are making waves in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just finding your feet, these names make sure you’ll look the part in and out of the water.

Remember that iconic Billabong tee coveted by teenagers everywhere? Well, the brand has come a long way since then. Sure, their classic logo still adorns many a surfer’s chest, but Billabong has seriously upped its game in recent years.

Take the new Airlite boardshorts, for example. The fabric is so light it’s barely noticeable, yet holds up beautifully against rough waves. And as for the wetsuits, the Furnace series keeps surfers toasty even during those chilly early morning sessions.

O’Neill: The OG of Wetsuits

Speaking of wetsuits, we can’t ignore the brand that started it all. O’Neill has been keeping surfers warm since the 1950s, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down almost 75 years later. Now, that’s quite the run. 

Talk to any grizzled local at your home break, and chances are they’ll sing the praises of O’Neill’s Psycho One wetsuit. It’s the kind of gear that fits like a second skin, perfected over decades of innovation.

Quiksilver: Performance Meets Style

Quiksilver has always had a knack for blending performance with street-ready style. Its latest line of boardshorts features some seriously eye-catching prints, but don’t let the good looks fool you—these are built to perform.

The Highline Pro shorts, for instance, not only look great for post-surf beers at the local bar but hold up beautifully during intense sessions at challenging breaks. The four-way stretch fabric allows for free movement, while the DryFlight water-repellent coating keeps surfers comfortable even after hours in the water.

Rip Curl: The Search Never Ends

Rip Curl’s “The Search” campaign has inspired generations of surfers to explore new breaks and push their limits. But it’s not just marketing fluff aimed to sell apparel—its gear is genuinely built for adventure.

Its Anti-Series jacket is a lifesaver during blustery beach checks, while the E-Bomb wetsuit keeps surfers comfortable in frigid waters. It’s the kind of gear you want when embarking on a coastal road trip, chasing waves and new experiences.

Animal: British Surf Style

While many surf brands hail from sunnier climes, Animal proves that the Brits know a thing or two about surf style. Based in Poole, Dorset, Animal has been kitting out UK surfers since way back in the 1980s..

The brand’s hoodies are perfect for those post-surf warmups when the British weather is doing its thing. Plus, its commitment to using organic cotton and recycled materials aligns nicely with the eco-conscious ethos that’s becoming increasingly important in the surf community.

Patagonia: Surfing with a Conscience

Speaking of eco-consciousness, Patagonia has long been at the forefront of sustainable surf wear. Its Yulex wetsuits, made from natural rubber, are revolutionary for anyone who wants to minimize their environmental impact.

Surfers who’ve made the switch to Patagonia wetsuits often report that they don’t miss neoprene one bit. The fit is great, they keep you warm through colder surfing climates, and there’s the added bonus of supporting a company that puts the planet first.

Outerknown: Kelly Slater’s Sustainable Vision

When 11-time world champion Kelly Slater puts his name behind a brand, you know it’s going to be good. Outerknown, Slater’s sustainable clothing line, has quickly become a favorite among surfers who care about both style and sustainability.

Its Blanket Shirts have become a go-to for chilly beach mornings. Made from organic cotton and recycled polyester, they’re soft, warm, and built to last. Plus, they look just as good in the bar as they do on the beach.

Finisterre: Cold Water Surfing Specialists

Anyone who’s braved the icy waters of the North Atlantic will appreciate gear that’s built specifically for cold water surfing. Enter Finisterre, the Cornwall-based brand that’s been outfitting hardy surfers from Britain and beyond since 2003.

Their Nieuwland wetsuits are some of the warmest on the market, perfect for those winter sessions when the waves are pumping but the mercury is plummeting. And their post-surf wear is second to none—many a surfer practically lives in their Finisterre beanie during the colder months.

Vans: From Skate Park to Surf Break

While Vans might be better known for their skate shoes, the brand has made serious inroads into the surf world in recent years. Its surf boots are a godsend for anyone who’s ever hobbled across a pebble beach in bare feet, and its range of surf-inspired clothing is both stylish and functional.

The UltraRange EXO shoes have become a favorite for beach approaches. They’re comfortable, quick-drying, and provide great grip on slippery rocks. Essential for those secret spots that require a bit of a hike to access.

The Final Wave

So there you have it—a rundown of some of the best surf clothing brands making waves in 2024. From the established giants like Billabong and O’Neill to eco-warriors like Patagonia and Outerknown, there’s something for every type of surfer’s style.

But ultimately, the best gear is the gear that works for you. Don’t be afraid to mix and match brands to find your perfect surf outfit. And whatever you choose, make sure it allows you to focus on what really matters – catching that perfect wave.

The tide’s coming in and there’s a clean swell on the horizon. Time to suit up and paddle out. See you in the lineup.