Surf and Style

Every where you turn, it seems that there are new surf apparel companies that seem to surface every year. Needless to say, this is a direct result of the popularity of the sport that has grown tremendously. Even major sports apparel giant Nike has created Nike 6.0 to appeal to the extreme sports nut. It didn't take them long to realize the growth of surfing and other extreme sports and the large market share that they would lose out on if they hadn't created an apparel line to fit this demographic.

Whether you're a surfer, or just someone who wishes he was a surfer, the clothing, apparel and over all style of surfing has caught on in the lives of people everywhere. But what identifies the true style of a surfer? Is it the long hair and baggy board shorts that hang off his waist? Or is it the smooth reggae music that blares from his truck stereo? In actuality, there is no ONE style that can describe a surfer. The actual style of a surfer is a simple state of mind. To emulate the true style of a surfer, is to have a huge smile on your face after you've had an awesome morning surf session full of epic waves and massive tube rides. Whether you're in college and trying to get in your session in between classes, or you're an executive squeezing in a mid-day session on your lunch break, you carry the true style in your emotions. It's evident that you're stoked when you've had a great time surfing.

There is a certain spirit that follows a true surfer. It's one of humility, patience and overall kindness. This could be a topic of discussion and even great disagreement, but in my world, surfers that truly care about life and the ocean don't carry feelings of contention with them. They appreciate the gift of the ocean and the enjoyment that they are able to experience as they ride waves. Nothing can take away that special feeling.

Trends will come and go as surf apparel will continue to evolve. I've found that the style of clothing will "recycle" itself every decade or so. What was popular last year, may not be so "in" two years from now. But don't be so quick to throw away that hat or t-shirt, because you may be safe to sport it again in another ten years. As trends evolve, change, and reappear, there's one aspect of surf and style that will remain constant. That true Aloha spirit that follows every surfer where ever he goes.

Stay Stoked!