Best Rip Curl in 2026

Most surfers assume that shorter inseams are the only way to achieve true mobility, but the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Boardshorts prove that a 21" outseam offers a much more balanced silhouette. While testing these in the Navy Heather colorway, I found that the cut provides enough coverage to feel secure without the bulk of traditional long-form trunks. They hit that sweet spot for guys who want a classic look that doesn't feel like they are wearing heavy gear. At a price point, these feel like a reliable staple for your surf kit rather than a specialized piece of high-cost equipment. They are straightforward, functional, and built for the daily grind of the ocean.

Why settle for restrictive swim trunks when you can have total mobility in the water? The Rip Curl Mirage Setters are built for those who live for the surf, utilizing a specialized 4-way stretch Mirage Core fabric that moves exactly how you do. Whether you are paddling through a heavy swell or just lounging on the boardwalk, the standard fit provides a comfortable, reliable feel all day long. The blend of polyester and elastane ensures they stay lightweight, while the secure drawstring and zip fly pocket keep your essentials safe. It is clear that this brand understands the needs of the surfing community, offering a high-performance piece of gear that transitions seamlessly from a morning session to a casual afternoon out.

The Rip Curl Men's Mirage Setters Boardshorts rely on advanced 4-way stretch Mirage Core fabric to deliver unmatched mobility in the water. Having tested gear designed by surfers for surfers, I can tell you that the 12% elastane blend makes a massive difference when you're paddling hard or navigating a heavy swell. These aren't just beach trunks. They are high-performance tools built for 'The Search.' The standard fit feels natural whether you are strolling along the boardwalk or catching waves, and the secure drawstring paired with a zip fly keeps everything tucked in place. At a price point, you're getting a durable, machine-washable piece of apparel from a brand that has led the surf scene since 1969.

Most people assume that durable swimwear inevitably feels stiff or heavy, but the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol boardshorts defy that logic by balancing ruggedness with actual comfort. Having been a staple in the surf scene for over 50 years, Rip Curl clearly understands that gear needs to survive a heavy wipeout while remaining wearable for a casual afternoon by the pool. These shorts are constructed from 100% polyester ripsuede fabric, which provides a high-quality feel that holds up through repeated machine washes. The 21” outseam and slanted side pockets offer a practical, functional fit for surfing, paddle boarding, or just lounging. Whether you are deep in 'The Search' or just relaxing at home, the adjustable waist tie ensures you stay secure without sacrificing mobility.

Serious surfers who demand gear that survives heavy whitewash and long sessions need the Rip Curl Mirage Core boardshorts in their rotation. I found that the 20-inch length provides that perfect, classic coverage that avoids feeling too skimpy when you're paddling out. The blend of polyester and elastane gives the fabric a responsive stretch that moves with your body rather than resisting it. One of the smartest design choices here is the waterproof zippered side pocket. It’s a lifesaver for keeping small essentials secure while you're navigating sand and waves. Between the diagonal side seams and the comfortable drawstring closure, these shorts balance high-performance utility with a clean, casual aesthetic that works just as well at a beach bonfire as it does in the lineup.

The buttery-soft texture of the suedeside fabric is the first thing you'll notice when pulling these on. These Rip Curl All Time boardshorts capture a classic surf aesthetic through a stylish sublimation print featuring variegated stripes and a sharp contrast waistband. I found the fixed waist and traditional surf-tie closure to be incredibly reliable for active days in the water, while the snap-flap pocket on the right leg keeps essentials secure. With a 9-inch inseam and a comfortable 12-inch front rise, they offer a balanced fit that doesn't feel too restrictive. The subtle Rip Curl branding and contrasting accents add just enough detail to make these look as good on the beach as they do in the lineup.

The Rip Curl All Time Boardshorts deliver an authentic surf aesthetic through their incredibly soft buttersuede fabric. I was immediately struck by the stylish sublimation print, which uses variegated stripes to capture that classic coastal vibe without feeling dated. The light blue colorway looks sharp, especially when paired with the contrasting waistband and subtle logo accents. These aren't just for the water, though. The fixed waist with a traditional surf-tie closure and the secure snap-flap pocket on the right leg make them comfortable enough for all-day wear. With a 9-inch inseam and a generous 22-inch leg opening, they offer plenty of mobility for paddling or lounging. It is a reliable, high-quality staple for anyone looking to maintain that original surf spirit.

The textured feel of the Black Heather fabric is the first thing you notice when pulling these on, offering a premium look that transitions easily from the lineup to the beach bar. These Rip Curl Mirage Sunrise shorts are built for movement, utilizing a specialized stretch construction that prevents that restrictive feeling during heavy paddling sessions. With a 21" outseam, they sit at a modern, versatile length that provides enough coverage without feeling bulky or outdated. Whether you are duck-diving through a set or just lounging in the sun, the lightweight material holds up remarkably well against the elements. They strike that perfect balance between high-performance surf gear and comfortable daily apparel.

Most bikini bottoms fail the moment you actually hit the water, but the Rip Curl Standard Classic is built to survive the surf. Instead of relying on those flimsy, unreliable tie sides that constantly come undone in a swell, this bottom uses a secure pull-on style designed specifically for high-performance water activities. Whether you are paddling out for a heavy session or just sailing, the 85% polyamide and 15% elastane blend provides a reliable fit that stays put. It offers a flattering, cheeky coverage that balances style with the rugged durability required by actual surfers. It is rare to find a piece of swimwear that feels this comfortable for lounging while remaining tough enough for the roughest waves.

Most swimwear forces you to choose between a cute silhouette and actually staying dressed once you hit the water, but these Rip Curl bottoms refuse to compromise. Instead of relying on flimsy tie sides that unravel during a wipeout, this cheeky coverage piece uses a secure pull-on style designed to withstand heavy surf. I love that it feels purpose-built for real water activities like surfing or sailing rather than just looking good for a tan. The blend of polyamide and elastane provides a comfortable, stretchy fit that moves with you. It is a reliable, high-performance staple from a brand that has been leading the surf scene for over fifty years, making it much more dependable than your average beachwear.

The Rip Curl Men's Elite Anti Series Hooded Wind Breaker delivers serious weather protection without the bulk of a heavy coat. Having tested various layers for unpredictable coastal conditions, I found the laminated and bonded fabrics to be a game-changer for blocking wind chill. It utilizes a DWR coating and water-repellent technology to keep you dry when the rain starts to pick up, while the full zip closure makes it easy to layer over a hoodie. The design is incredibly functional for those who live for the outdoors, featuring a zippered chest pocket for essentials and standard hand pockets for warmth. It is a lightweight, high-performance piece that honors Rip Curl's fifty-year legacy of building gear specifically for the surf and snow scenes.

The Rip Curl SearchGPS is a specialized powerhouse designed to turn every ocean session into actionable data. While most sports watches feel like afterthoughts in the water, this 43mm unit thrives by offering a detailed tide view and real-time surf metrics like wave counts and top speeds. I found the GPS tracking remarkably versatile, moving seamlessly from tracking surf sessions to monitoring skiing or biking. The rechargeable battery keeps up with long days outdoors, and the 100m water resistance ensures it handles waves and snorkeling without a hitch. Once you are back on land, syncing your stats to the Rip Curl app provides a satisfying way to analyze your distance and speed through graphic charts and location maps.

Most surfers settle for bulky, restrictive trunks that lose their shape after a few sessions, but these Mirage Surf Revival shorts bridge the gap between retro aesthetics and high-performance engineering. Rip Curl has spent over fifty years refining their gear for 'The Search,' and you can feel that heritage in this specific design. While the look leans into a classic, throwback vibe from the Surf Revival Collection, the actual technology is strictly modern. The fabric provides the essential stretch needed for active movement in the water, ensuring you stay comfortable whether you are paddling out or hanging at the beach. It is a thoughtful blend of old-school style and the technical reliability you expect from a brand built by surfers, for surfers.

Traditional surf aesthetics often sacrifice the technical performance required for heavy sessions, but the Rip Curl Mirage Surf Revival shorts bridge that gap perfectly. These shorts blend a nostalgic, throwback design with the high-performance stretch technology that modern surfers demand. Having been a staple in the industry since 1969, Rip Curl clearly understands the 'Search'—that constant drive to find the next wave—and they’ve built these to make those long days in the water feel drier and more comfortable. The navy colorway offers a clean, timeless look that doesn't feel dated, while the advanced microfiber construction ensures you aren't weighed down by heavy, waterlogged fabric. It is a reliable piece of gear that honors the brand's heritage without compromising on modern functionality.

Most parents assume that finding reliable swimwear for active kids means compromising on style, but these Rip Curl boardshorts prove that simplicity is actually a superpower. I found that the 5-inch cut provides just the right amount of coverage for young surfers without feeling restrictive during heavy paddling or running on the sand. The comfort fit is the real hero here, allowing for a full range of motion that standard tight-fitting suits often lack. Since these are designed specifically for the surf environment, they handle the transition from saltwater to the beach towel with ease. At a price point, you are investing in a durable piece of gear that prioritizes movement over unnecessary bells and whistles.

After weeks of salt-water sessions and long afternoons on the sand, the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol boardshorts have proven to be a reliable staple for any surfer. The 21-inch outseam provides that sought-after longer fit, making them ideal for those who prefer more coverage while riding waves. What really sets these apart is the Ripsuede fabric. It has a remarkably soft hand-feel that stays comfortable even during all-day wear. The design isn't just functional, either, as the engineered sublimation print and heat transfer logos give them a premium look. With a secure drawstring waist, a fly, and a practical side pocket with a flap, these shorts balance technical performance with everyday utility.

Rip Curl has cemented its reputation for performance with the Dawn Patrol 21" boardshorts, a top-tier choice for surfers who prefer a longer, more traditional silhouette. The standout feature is the Ripsuede fabric, which provides a surprisingly soft hand-feel while maintaining the flexibility needed for all-day sessions in the water. I was impressed by the engineered sublimation print and the clean look of the heat transfer logos, which feel integrated rather than just slapped on. The diagonal side seam adds a unique structural touch, and the inclusion of a drawstring waist with a fly ensures a secure fit. Even with the added utility of a side pocket with a flap, these shorts manage to stay streamlined and functional for active riding.

Most swimwear forces a compromise between ocean-friendly materials and actual surf performance, but these Rip Curl bottoms refuse to play that game. Being part of the Eco Surf Essentials collection, they feel like a deliberate step toward more sustainable beachwear without sacrificing that classic, reliable fit you expect from a heritage surf brand. The black colorway is a total staple, making them incredibly easy to mix and match with different tops for a versatile summer wardrobe. Whether you are paddling out through a break or just lounging on the sand, the construction feels purposeful and durable. It is refreshing to find a piece that aligns with environmental consciousness while still being rugged enough for a full day in the waves.

Most parents assume that high-performance surf gear has to come with a massive price tag, but these Rip Curl essentials prove otherwise. I was surprised to see such a reputable brand offering a staple like this black bikini bottom at such an accessible price point. These bottoms belong to their premium surf essentials collection, meaning they are built to handle the actual rigors of a day at the beach rather than just looking good by the pool. The fit is reliable for junior sizing, providing that classic, understated look that works for any active kid. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense piece of apparel that prioritizes function and brand heritage without unnecessary frills.

The first light of dawn hits the water just as you paddle out, and the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2mm ensures that the morning chill doesn't cut your session short. This suit relies heavily on E5 Neoprene, which provides a lightweight, high-stretch feel that moves naturally with your body during heavy paddling or turns. I was particularly impressed by the E4 Thermoflex back mesh panels. They act as clever skin panels that absorb solar heat while shielding you from biting wind chill. The internal E5 Flash Lining works overtime with water-wicking technology to keep you feeling dry and comfortable from the moment you zip up the back entry system. It is a reliable, high-performance piece of gear for anyone serious about their dawn patrol sessions.

The vibrant, multicolored tree print immediately catches the eye against the washed black fabric, making these shorts a standout piece for any beach trip. Beyond the aesthetic, the technical performance is what actually impresses during a long day in the water. Rip Curl utilized a DWR water-repellant treatment that is free of PFOA/PFOS, ensuring you stay dry without compromising environmental safety. Combined with integrated hydrophobic technology, these shorts dry incredibly fast once you're out of the surf. The mid-rise fit feels secure, especially with the broad contrasting waistband and reliable tie closure that stays put during heavy sessions. They strike that rare balance between high-performance surf gear and stylish casual wear.