Superior Surf Shorts: Quiksilver

(For all of 2019’s Superior Surf Shorts, head here!)

The shining bastion of what we could’ve been, Quik doesn’t forget the lofty heights, and nor should they. In homage to a hell of a history, Quik’s latest release pays respects to some of the iconic designs and logos that have come before with some stylish staples, and the return of the star trunks… only this time in cherry red.

Interestingly, Quik designer James Kindred, was one of the trunk makers interviewed who pointed to the 80s and 90s as inspirational, rather than to be avoided. But not necessarily for the overall aesthetic. “Most of the boardshorts from that era had epic colour, the artwork had more attitude and the design ethos was unapologetic,” James says. Before adding, “plus, I bet the house parties were off the charts back then.”

As for the now, James points to surfing’s new found all-inclusiveness as something that he’s thankful for. Whether that’s in the water, or in the fashions borne out of it. “I am happy to see the amount of variety there is today,” he says. “People have way more options for style, fabrics and construction than they had a few years ago. Surfing is a form of expression, so it’s cool to see that coming through in boardshorts. I think it’s directly related to the alternative shapes you see in a lot of people’s quivers, which is rad…well, within reason.” (laughs)

Quiksilver’s most recent boardshort launch pays due respect to the lineage of one of the most recognisable surf brands we’ve got. The reason being is that it’s Quik’s 50 year anniversary, and what better way to celebrate a momentous occasion than to put modern twists on iconic silhouettes. 

“We developed two replicas of heritage pieces to celebrate Quiksilver’s 50-year milestone,” James says. “A remake of the Star Trunk, which first appeared in the ‘If you can’t rock n roll, don’t fucken come’ campaign and was made famous by Kelly Slater In Black And White. The other is a replica of the ST COMP — which stood for Surf, Train, Competition. It had bold, logo-driven graphics and pioneered the use of stretch fabric panels in boardshorts.” 

Grab yourself a piece of Quik history, in here.