Rip Curl
Victorian surf brand, 'made by surfers for surfers'. The diamond-framed wave, then the rectangular red wave, date its tags.
- Origin
- Australia
- Founded
- 1969
- Category
- Athletic & Streetwear
- Documented eras
- 4
How Rip Curl labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
'Made by Surfers' Tags
Bright bold tags reflecting the era's aesthetic, often carrying 'Made by Surfers for Surfers', rectangular with vibrant multi-colour logos and text.
- Tags often feature bright colors and bold designs reflective of the era’s aesthetic.
- Includes descriptors like “Made by Surfers for Surfers.”
- Commonly rectangular with vibrant, multi-colored logos and text.
How to spot it
Bright tags with 'Made by Surfers for Surfers'.
Value signal
Strong; 80s Rip Curl has a surf-collector following.
1990–1999
'A Product of the Search' Tags
More subdued colours than the 80s, the logo still prominent but more streamlined, frequently with 'A Product of the Search', size on the tag or a small attached tag.
- Tags typically use more subdued colors compared to the 1980s.
- Logos are still prominent but the design is slightly more streamlined.
- Frequently includes slogans like “A Product of the Search.”
- Size indicators often appear on the same tag or on an attached smaller tag.
How to spot it
'A Product of the Search' wording on the tag.
Value signal
Solid 90s vintage; value tracks the garment.
2000–2009
Dark Modern Loop Tags
More modern fonts in darker colours, loop tags increasingly common, bold lettering with brand slogans and added production and composition detail.
- Introduction of more modern fonts and darker colors.
- Loop tags become more common during this period.
- Tags feature both bold lettering and additional brand slogans or descriptors.
- Often includes production details and material compositions.
How to spot it
Dark modern tags, often with a loop.
Value signal
Common; modest resale.
2010–2019
Minimalist URL Tags
Modern sleek minimalist logos in varied materials and colours, tags carrying website URLs and fuller production detail.
- Modern, sleek design with minimalist logos.
- Variety in tag materials and colors, reflecting a more contemporary branding approach.
- Includes website URLs and more detailed production information.
- Maintains the classic logo while incorporating new branding elements.
How to spot it
A minimalist tag — a website URL means modern.
Value signal
Modern; priced on the piece.