The best surf brands you can find in New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the most popular surfing destinations in the world. It is said that the Māori were already surfing even before European settlers arrived in the 19th century, that’s how long New Zealand’s surfing culture goes.

The country has a long surfing tradition due to its varied coastline and surf locations. The west coast is known for its big swells and high winds that create the perfect conditions for surfers to enjoy a challenge.

Because of this, some of the best surfing brands in the world can be found in New Zealand. Here are five of the most popular brands you need to check out before hitting the beach.

Patagonia

Patagonia is one of the most popular outdoor brands in the world. Their surfing line includes premium wetsuits equipped with Yulex technology, backpacks, impact vests, boardshorts, hooded full suits, hybrid booties, split shoe booties gloves, and insertable hoods. The brand has been in the surfing apparel business for a long time and it has always been recognized for the quality of its materials and amazing collections.

The company has many stores around the country and an online marketplace where you can shop directly.

Billabong

If you had to name three surfing brands Billabong would probably be on the list. Every year, the brand sponsors dozens of surfing events and some of the wildest most popular teams in the world. Founded in Australia in 1973 by a surfboard shaper Gordon Merchant, the brand has been part of Australia’s surfing culture since 1980.

With some of the best boards and wetsuits in the world, Billabong stands proud as a pioneer of mainstream surfing culture and one of the sport's main ambassadors.

O’Neill

Founded in 1952 by a young man named Jack O’Neill, the company sold some of the first commercial neoprene suits and board leashes in America. The brand was one of the first mainstream surf companies in the world. They also created the first stitchless board shorts and some of the first surfing accessories designed for competitions and pro surfers.

Vans

Vans was founded in 1966 by Paul and James Van Doren and Serge Delia. Originally a skateboard brand, the company entered the surfing business in 1980 and immediately stood out from the crowd. Recently, the band released a new collection called Vans X TC Surf Collection to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Channel Islands Surfboards

CIS has been around since 1969. Originally a small surfboard manufacturer, the company grew into a cutting-edge organization that works with some of the best surfers in the world. The quality of their materials, excellent craftsmanship, and attention to detail had made them a power player in the surfing business.