Surfcasual, a surf clothing label launched in 2022, has come under fire from veteran surfers after its anti-violence stance stirred controversy. The brand, which aims to reduce aggression in the surfing community, was founded on the principle of promoting positive behavior in the lineup and fostering respect among surfers of all levels.
According to Surfcasual’s “Our Story” message, the brand was born from a 2019 surf trip to Sri Lanka, where the founders experienced firsthand the negative impact of aggressive behavior in the surf community. They advocate for a shift toward accountability, respect, and camaraderie among surfers, hoping to create a culture that focuses on positivity and discourages toxic behavior.
However, the brand’s message sparked backlash from some traditional surfers after they posted a video showing two surfers clashing over a wave. The clip, which has garnered nearly nine million views, was accompanied by Surfcasual’s anti-violence message, emphasizing the importance of promoting respect and responsibility in the surf lineup.
Greg Webber, a veteran surfboard shaper known for his work with concaves in the late 1980s, was quick to criticize Surfcasual’s stance. He dismissed the brand’s position as “politically correct rubbish.” Other surfers, such as Mittenscoops, expressed similar frustrations, arguing that some level of conflict is necessary for personal growth and that the pursuit of non-violence may hinder resilience.
Mittenscoops further argued that facing adversity and pressure is essential for building strength, and that a passive approach to surfing and life in general is naive. He went on to compare the idea of coddling surfers to the overprotection of children, suggesting it can lead to a lack of respect for danger and an inability to handle real-world challenges.
In a lengthy comment, he emphasized the importance of holding surfers accountable for dangerous behavior in the water. He suggested that surfers who fail to follow proper etiquette, such as dropping in on others or paddling recklessly, pose a danger not only to themselves but also to everyone around them. He stressed that while surfing should be enjoyable, it must be practiced with respect for those more experienced, especially in competitive or dangerous locations like the North Shore.
Mittenscoops and other critics argued that sometimes raising your voice to enforce the rules or even confronting a surfer is necessary to maintain safety in the lineup. They expressed concern about the increasing entitlement among surfers, with some expecting to be treated equally without paying their dues. In their view, the responsibility lies with the more experienced surfers to ensure the safety and order of the surf community.
Despite the backlash, Surfcasual’s ethos is centered on reducing aggression and promoting empathy in surfing. The brand encourages surfers to be mindful of their actions and work together to create a more respectful and welcoming community.
The debate over Surfcasual’s message highlights the ongoing clash between old-school surf culture, which values toughness and hierarchy, and the newer, more inclusive mindset promoted by brands like Surfcasual. While the brand’s anti-violence stance may be seen as overly idealistic by some, it has also sparked important conversations about how to balance respect for surfing’s traditions with the need for positive change within the sport.
Related Topics
- How Cassey Ho Turned Her Target Apparel Line Into a Viral Success
- TikTok User Criticizes Grace Beverley’s Business Philosophy, Accusing Tala of Greenwashing
- Kristin Juszczyk Teams Up with Emma Grede to Launch Off Season—A Sports Apparel Brand Inspired by Juszczyk’s DIY Designs
