Rip Curl Overview
Pro stress-test →Rip Curl is an Australian designer, manufacturer, and retailer of surfing sportswear and accompanying products, and a major athletic sponsor. Globally, Rip Curl is considered a successful member of the "Big Three" of the surf industry alongside Quiksilver and Billabong. The company was sold to outdoor specialist company Kathmandu in October 2019.
Strategic Profile
Pro stress-test →Rip Curl remains a company built by surfers for surfers, and has been a market leader in surfing for over 50 years. Rip Curl is now present in several areas of board sports, including skateboarding/surfskating, freestyle skiing, snowboarding and wakeboarding. Rip Curl became a Certified B Corp brand in early 2023, demonstrating its commitment to high social and environmental standards.
Competitive Landscape
Pro stress-test →Rip Curl competes as a member of the "Big Three" in the surf industry alongside Quiksilver and Billabong. Rip Curl has become one of the largest surfing companies in Australia, Europe, South America, North America and South Africa. Competitors include premium wetsuitmakers like Xcel and O'Neill, as well as broader action sports brands targeting overlapping demographics.
Industry Context
Rip Curl operates in Surfing apparel and wetsuits.
Key facts
Founded: 1969 · Headquarters: Torquay, Australia · Employees: 1,700-3,000 · Revenue: $5B (estimated May 2026)