Why Bethany Hamilton Left Rip Curl With Three Years & Six Figures Left On Her Contract
Was an inclusive bikini campaign the end of their quarter-century partnership?
Seven days ago, Bethany Hamilton posted a before-and-after Instagram slider to commemorate her 20-year journey after the shark attack that famously took her left arm.
On the second slide, the nose of Bethany’s board, which for the past 24 years has been occupied by Rip Curl stickers, appears vacant.
This is unusual, because on January 28th, 2022, Bethany re-signed a five-year deal with her long-term sponsor. The cotton candy pleasantries included: “It feels amazing to have been with Rip Curl for this long, and it really feels like we align on so many different levels.”
However, this agreement was inked before February 2023, when Bethany took to socials in opposition of the World Surf League’s recently released Transgender policy. The policy stated:
As an Olympic Sport, and with aspirations for all of the WSL’s disciplines to be included in the Olympics, the WSL had adopted the International Surfing Association (ISA) policy on transgender participation.
Bethany’s response to the news was a minutes-long Instagram Reel, explaining why she found the ruling contrary to the interests of “biologically” female athletes.
This year, Rip Curl featured a transgender woman in their Summer Looks Good On You bikini campaign. And, well…
Get Stab Premium
Home to the greatest films, series, and editorial in surfing.
Already a member? Sign In
Signed in but can't see the content?
Update Your Card > Menu > Subscriptions > Renew Now
Other issues? Email [email protected]
Are you a student and semi-broke?
Email a pic of your current student ID to [email protected] for 20% off Premium.
Member
benefits
Stab Original Films
Stab In The Dark, How Surfers Get Paid, Electric Acid Surfboard Test and many more.
Daily Premium Editorial
Breaking news, exclusive interviews, untold stories and industry deep dives.
Access to Stab Merch
Member-only merch drops. Tees, hats and accessories you won't find anywhere else.
Member Only Giveaways
Like free surfboards and all-expenses-paid surf trips? Here's your ticket.
Deals and discounts
Save cash with Stab's brand partners that cancel out the cost of your Premium subscription.
Invites to Stab Events
First access and VIP perks at Stab High, EAST Fest and film premieres.
Money Can't Buy Products
One-offs, rarities and unrepeatables you won't find anywhere else. Think boards from our series, premium collabs and limited edition capsule drops.
Plus way, way more.
More locked rewards and surprise and delights that simply pop up. Join Stab Premium today and find out more.
Apr 20, 2026
