Rincon Surf Shack

The Changing Nature of Surfing

Trends

  • The industry has changed significantly since the inception of the Southern California culture.
  • Surfer were mainly teenagers in the 1960's. They followed a beach lifestyle
  • Their clothes consisted of baggies, or board shorts as they are called today.
  • The bikini was popular with the girls that admired the surfers. They were called beach bunnies.
  • Very few women surfed in the early 60;s
  • Surf music was born with groups like Dick and The Deltones. They played instrumental surfing music
  • The Beach boys group was formed.
  • Jan and Dean sang surfing and skateboard songs.

  • Skateboards were a way to surf on land and become part of the surfing culture.
  • Retailers have more brand choices but are carrying fewer brands and product categories.
  • While only 23% of core retailers use Internet/Catalog sales, those who use it have seen a 29.5% increase in sales.
  • Overall shoe sales are down, but sandals sales are up to over $300 million - an increase of over $50 million since 2004.
  • Apparel is the largest product category with an increase of 9.9% in sales in 2006 and currently has sales over $8 billion.
  • Men's board shorts have continued to see strong growth.
  • Wetsuits represent a small percent of core sales, dollars are up 30% due to price points.
  • Accessories: sunglasses, watches, bags, hats, saw slight sales growth of 4.3%. Most of the increase was due to sunglasses.
  • Hard goods: surfboards, skateboards, snowboards, wake boards, sales are up 24% from 2004 to 2006
  • There are more female surfers now and surfers are getting older.
  • Females make up 36% of the surfing population
  • The median income of a surfer is $75,000
  • Artificial waves created at a wave break park could have a significant positive influence on the surfing market.
  • The growing popularity of long boards has made the industry grow. It is easier to learn how to surf on a long board.
  • The only choice of boards in the 60's was the long board. They were heavy about 4 lbs and long, 9 to a little over 10 feet.
  • The short boards and other models that are on the market today are faster, lighter, shorter and more maneuverable.
  • We now have stand up paddle boards available ranging 10=12 feet in length
  • SIMA - Surf Industry Manufacturers Association, and others have increased visibility through promotional and educational programs.

    Written by The Web Master

    • Positive Attributes of Surfing

    Health Benefits

  • Surfing has gone from a 60's cult sport to the mainstream with bona-fide stars, major surfing competitions.
  • The surfer look is an important style for America's youth.
  • By 2017 the surfing market will make 13.24 billion dollars
  • Surfing is a health and fitness sport that can be done at any age.
  • Great cardiovascular benefits.
  • Strengthens core strength in back shoulders and legs.
  • A great way to spend time outdoors.
  • Reduces stress and tension.
  • Join the surfing community today and feel the benefits of this great sport.

    Written by the Web Master