In 1969, two Torquay locals, Alan Green and John Law, turned to making boardshorts in their home garage based on what they saw as a market opportunity. Authenticity, innovation, pride, confidence and a belief in limitless potential have been the foundations in Quiksilver becoming the largest and most prestigious apparel company in the action outdoor sports industry

About the Company

The Quiksilver logo, a cresting wave and snow-capped mountain, has become a marque of excellence. Since 1969, Quiksilver has maintained its commitment to quality and performance, and taken this message around the world. Born on the beach, Quiksilver’s core concept of fashion with function has now been embraced by all who enjoy active outdoor lifestyles.

The cresting wave and snow capped mountain logo symbolises excellence and authenticity. The logo was inspired by a famous Japanese woodcut depicting a typhoon wave and Mt Fuji.

Where did the name “Quiksilver” come from?

Alan’s wife Barbara was reading a novel when she came across the word ‘quicksilver’ describing something as; elusive, liquid, mercurial, changing readily – and thought that sounded similar to what Alan was trying to do with the company.

The name Quiksilver is derived from the ancient alchemists’ term for the turning of base metals into gold. The goal of the company was the turning of good fabric into extra ordinary products. It was thought to be an appropriate name for the company’s products.

Quiksilver Today

Boardriders, Inc. (NYSE:ZQK) is the world's leading outdoor sports lifestyle company, designing, producing and distributing a diversified mix of branded apparel, wintersports and golf equipment, footwear, accessories and related products.

The Company's apparel and footwear brands represent a casual lifestyle for young-minded people that connect with its boardriding culture and heritage, while its wintersports and golf brands symbolise a long-standing commitment to technical expertise and competitive success on the mountains and on the links.

On top of sponsoring some of the world’s top outdoor sports athletes, the company also organises and sponsors numerous contests and events, ranging from premiere international events to small community-based efforts that its riders and dealers may be involved with.

Quiksilver has become far more than just a fashion apparel company. It is a company with deep roots in the history of the demanding outdoor sports lifestyle.