While I’ll readily admit I’m not the best surfer in the world by any stretch of the imagination, I have dabbled with relative success. Most recently I braved the Atlantic and the Irish summer (and by that I mean lashing rain) for a spot of surfing at the fabulous Inchydoney Island Lodge in West Cork. The beach was breathtaking, the waves were fantastic but what really made an impression was the easy-going surf sartorial flair of the many dedicated followers.

From small cult beginnings, surf culture has gone mainstream, influencing music, film and of course fashion. Surf poster boys include ex-Baywatch star and 9 time World Champion pro-surfer, Kelly Slater, singer songwriter Jack Johnson and movie star Matthew McConaughey who’s regularly papped emerging from the water with his surf board in hand.

The surfer look is not all about tousled blond hair, dirty tans, toned bodies or indeed looking like you’ve just hopped off your board. You can add an aire of surfer dude to your look quite easily. Companies like Quiksilver, Billabong and Carhartt have made surf culture and attire accessible to all even if you don’t surf – catering for what I like to term the ‘street surfer’.

Overall it’s a relaxed aesthetic that says fun-loving and free-spirited. The key components of any ‘street surfer’s’ wardrobe should include the following pieces:

FOOTWEAR
Perhaps the easiest way to inject a hint of surfer dude to your look is with your footwear. There is a certain style that surfers and skater boys alike, tend to wear. Tell tale design characteristics are wide sides with flat soles. Brands such as Vans, Element and DC specialise in these. Super easy to wear, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more comfortable runner. This blue and black pair by DC will look great, paired with casual jeans or trousers and a simple sweater. If you prefer your footwear less bulky, then choose a slip-on style such these Vans from Tribe, St Stephens Green, which will have the same effect.

BOARD SHORTS
Board shorts add a genuine gnarly edge to any look. Initially designed for surfers these have evolved into an essential component of any man’s casual wardrobe. Choose a pair that reflects your personality. To really up the surf quotient pick bold colours and designs. You can create your own at www.quiksilver.co.uk. The options are endless so have fun with pattern and texture. Quiksilver also have a range of ‘no-rash’ shorts will come in handy should you actually decide to get up on a board.

ACCESSORIES
Of course, another simple way to inject a dash of urban surfer look is with accessories. You don’t have to go as obvious as Hawaii-inspired jewellery. Adding some nice leather or cord wrist pieces or chains is enough to set the ‘surfs-up’ tone. Check out Topman, River Island and TK Maxx for a well-priced and varied selection. Caps and belts also help inject a healthy pop of surf cowabunga colour!

This style is all a bit rough and ready so don’t be afraid to layer up!

By Darren Kennedy

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