Riding Waves, Breaking Barriers: Women in Surf

Riding the Wave of Empowerment: Celebrating Women-Owned Water Sports Businesses & Brands

The world of water sports has long been dominated by men, but a powerful tide is turning. Women are carving their own paths, not just in the waves themselves, but also in shaping the industries that surround them. From surfboard design to retail and coaching, women entrepreneurs are making a splash with innovative ideas and a dedication to inclusivity.

This isn't just about representation; it's about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and empowered to explore the joy of water sports. These businesses are breaking down barriers, fostering community, and rewriting the narrative around who belongs on the beach, in the surf, or on the paddle board.

Surfboard Shapers & Designers:

Forget cookie-cutter boards! Women-owned surfboard brands are pushing the boundaries of design and performance, catering to diverse skill levels and body types.

• Lost Surfboards (Female Founders): Founded by female surfers, Lost offers a range of boards for women, prioritizing performance and style.
• Rip Curl (Co-Founded by a Woman): While not entirely women-owned, Rip Curl was co-founded by Doris and Brian Singer, paving the way for female leadership in the industry. Their commitment to supporting female surfers continues today with initiatives like the "Search" series featuring top female athletes.

Retail & Apparel:

Beyond boards, women are changing the face of water sports apparel and retail.

• Girlfriend Collective (Female-Founded): This sustainable activewear brand embraces inclusivity with sizes ranging from XXS to 6XL and a range of styles perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, and more.
• Salty Crew (Founder's Wife is CEO): While founded by a man, Salty Crew's success wouldn't be the same without the leadership of its CEO, who happens to be the founder's wife. Their commitment to quality and style resonates with both men and women who love the water.

Coaching & Instruction:

Learning to surf or paddleboard can be daunting, but female coaches are creating welcoming and supportive environments for beginners.

• The Surf Sisters (Female-Founded): This organization offers lessons for all ages and skill levels, focusing on empowerment and confidence building.
• Numerous independent female surf instructors: Many experienced female surfers are now taking their passion to the next level by teaching others, sharing their knowledge and fostering a love for the ocean.

The Future is Female (and Flowing!)

This is just a glimpse into the world of women-owned water sports businesses and brands. As more women enter these industries, we can expect even more innovation, creativity, and inclusivity.

So next time you're hitting the beach or planning your next water adventure, look for the women shaping the future of this vibrant community. Support their businesses, learn from their expertise, and join them in riding the wave of empowerment!## Riding the Wave: Real Women Shaping the Future of Water Sports

The movement empowering women in water sports is more than just a trend; it's a wave of change crashing onto shores worldwide. Beyond the brands and names mentioned earlier, countless inspiring stories illustrate the dedication, talent, and impact of women leading the charge.

Shaping the Surf:

Take Nikki Van Dijk, for example, a professional surfer from Australia who not only excels in competition but also advocates for inclusivity and representation in surfing. She founded "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," a non-profit organization providing surf lessons and mentoring to young girls, empowering them to embrace their passion and challenge stereotypes.

On the design front, Chloe Calmon is making waves with her eponymous surfboard brand. A former competitive surfer herself, Calmon recognizes the need for boards designed specifically for women's bodies and surfing styles. Her innovative designs prioritize maneuverability, stability, and performance, breaking away from traditional unisex shapes.

Beyond the Board:

The impact extends far beyond the waves themselves. Malia Manuel, a Hawaiian surfer turned entrepreneur, launched "Mana Maoli," a sustainable swimwear line using recycled materials and empowering women through ethical production practices. Her brand reflects a commitment to both ocean conservation and female empowerment.

In coaching, the influence of women like Lisa Andersen is undeniable. A legendary figure in surfing, Andersen transitioned into coaching, nurturing new talent and sharing her wisdom with aspiring surfers of all genders. She believes that coaching isn't just about technical skills but also fostering confidence, resilience, and a love for the ocean.

The Power of Community:

These examples showcase the diverse ways women are contributing to the water sports landscape. The shared passion for the ocean unites them, driving their commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and empowering future generations.

From coaching to design, retail to entrepreneurship, women are rewriting the narrative around water sports, proving that the future of this vibrant community is not only female but also flowing with creativity, passion, and a deep respect for the ocean.