Billabong: One of Surfing’s Most Iconic Lifestyle Brands

 

In July 1989 my father and I opened Troggs The Underground Surf Shop at 8 Bath Street Portrush. The very first clothing brand we stocked was the iconic Australian Surf Brand Billabong. Our very first delivery was brought over by a very famous Welsh surfing Legend the infamous Paul Gill. I later travelled with Paul across South Africa and we scored amazing waves together. Billabong has been a part of our local surfing heritage for almost 37 years. To celebrate this relationship we have partnered with Billabong and have now a limited edition t shirt. The Billabong Troggs Arch Tee. I thougbt id write this Blog to give some insight into the history of the brand and to of course show of the new limited edition troggs Billabong T-shirt!

When bought instore get 10% off any additional New Spring/Summer Collection Billabong item!! While stocks last

At Troggs, we’re proud to stock Billabong leisurewear because it represents exactly what many of our customers are looking for — clothing that feels at home both in the water and on the street.

Walk into almost any surf town in the world and you’ll find the name Billabong somewhere nearby. For decades it has been one of the most recognisable brands in surf culture, combining authentic surf heritage with relaxed coastal style.

But what exactly is Billabong, and why has it remained such a strong name in surf culture?

The Story Behind Billabong

Billabong was founded in 1973 on Australia’s Gold Coast by Gordon and Rena Merchant. Gordon began shaping and sewing durable boardshorts designed specifically for surfers who needed clothing that could withstand long sessions in the water.

The name “Billabong” comes from an Australian Aboriginal word describing a waterhole left behind after a river changes course — a fitting symbol for a brand born from a deep connection with water and surf culture.

From those early boardshort designs, Billabong quickly grew into a global surf brand, supporting professional surfers and helping shape the modern surf lifestyle movement.

Today the brand is worn not only by surfers but by people who connect with the relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle that surfing represents.

Billabong’s Place in Surf Culture

Unlike many fashion brands that simply borrow surf imagery, Billabong has always been rooted in the sport itself.

Over the years the brand has supported some of surfing’s biggest names and events, including the famous Billabong Pipe Masters in Hawaii, one of the most prestigious contests in professional surfing. check out one of the most memorable surfing events in history - the 2020 pipe masters; a 50 year old Kelly Slater charged his way to victory proving himself as truly the greatest competitive surfer in history.

Because of this long-standing involvement in the surf world, Billabong has maintained a strong reputation as a brand that blends performance heritage with everyday lifestyle clothing.

For customers, that means products that don’t just look good — they come from a genuine surf background.

Why We Stock Billabong

At Troggs, we try to choose brands that genuinely reflect the lifestyle of our customers and the culture of our local coastline. Billabong fits that perfectly for several reasons.

Authentic Surf Heritage

First and foremost, Billabong is a true surf brand. Its history, designs and identity all come from surfing culture rather than fashion trends.

Reliable Quality

Billabong has been producing surfwear for over 50 years, and their clothing is designed with comfort and durability in mind.

Style That Works Everywhere

One of the things customers love about Billabong is that the clothing works just as well on the beach, in town, travelling, or relaxing after a surf session. So If you’re looking for relaxed coastal clothing with real surf heritage, the Billabong range at Troggs is a great place to start.

Discover the Billabong Range In Store