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Riding the Waves in Style: Exploring NZ Streetwear for Surfers

by Michelle Griffin on November 28, 2023
nz streetwear

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look awesome! You can look amazing when you’re on land and in the water if you choose the right NZ streetwear outfits. 

Dipping your toes into the world of streetwear can be a bit daunting. It’s an extremely diverse style, so you might not know where to start. Are there any specific brands you should go for or styles you should mimic? 

No worries, we’re here to help you find your personal sense of streetwear style. Continue reading to learn how to casually dress fashionably as a New Zealand surfer.

Essential Tips For Stylish Surfers

With its stunning coastline and world-class waves, New Zealand is a surfer’s paradise. But what do you wear when you’re heading out with your surfing mates or going to relax on the beach?

Here are a few tips for surfers who want to look their best:

Choose Loose-Fitting Clothing That’s Breathable And Comfortable. Unlike certain other fashion trends, where the look is far more important than the feel, NZ streetwear has a big focus on comfort. Loose-fitting clothing allows you to move freely without feeling uncomfortably restricted.

Having good mobility is good for sports and daily life, and it’s just more pleasant. 

Wear A Rash Guard. A rash guard is a long-sleeved top that will cover your arms and chest. It will protect your skin from the hot sun’s rays and can protect you from the elements. They come in different colours and styles, so you can pick one that pairs nicely with whatever else you're wearing.

If you’re not surfing in a wetsuit or other protective outfit, then a rash guard is a smart choice - especially if you know you’ll be out for a while. Surfing is a very fun and thrilling sport, but you should always remember to put safety first. One surf session is not worth a painful sunburn that lasts for days!

Invest In Good Footwear. Although shoes aren’t the first thing most people look at when they first spot an outfit, they’re still a very important part of any NZ streetwear look. Invest in good pairs of durable and stylish footwear you can wear with your favourite clothes. 

Plus, having durable footwear is a smart thing if you’re an active person who frequently goes out.

Don’t Forget The Accessories. Accessories can really elevate any outfit. They’re also an easy way to add a touch of your personality to your look. 

A few great accessories for surfers are:

  • Sunglasses. Sunglasses are a very popular and practical choice for surfers. Not only do they look good and can be the perfect finishing touch for your daily attire, but they’re also practical and a smart choice for sunny days. They come in various styles and colours, so you can have fun picking the right sunglasses for the right looks.
  • Hats. A nice hat can keep the sun off your face and neck, and it can add flair to your NZ streetwear ensemble. 
  • Necklaces And Other Kinds Of Jewellery. Jewellery and accessories come in many styles that are perfect for any gender, and they can make you look more ‘you.’ Search for necklaces, bracelets and more that fit your style and tastes. 

It’s important to remember not to go overboard with your accessories, especially if you’re being active. If you plan on surfing with accessories on, make sure you choose ones that won’t disrupt your performance. For example, too many long necklaces could tangle or otherwise bother you. You may want to remove your accessories before you surf (especially if they could fall off and become lost in the water!). 

Keep It Simple. You don’t have to show up at the beach looking like you just stepped out of a fashion show. Sometimes, the best way to look stylish is to keep it simple. An important part of NZ streetwear is staying casual while keeping fashion in mind. 

Keep Your Clothes Clean. If you’re going to get in the water while wearing your clothes, make sure you wash your clothes after each session. This will help to prevent the fabric from fading or shrinking.

Be Yourself. A significant part of streetwear fashion is letting your own unique style shine through your clothes. Take inspiration from yourself, the world and people you like, but don’t feel pressured to mimic others just to fit in. 

Choose clothes you like and experiment with them. You could find your new favourite look.

Where You Can Go For Stylish Surfer Goods In Aotearoa

Come and see what we offer at Westside Surf + Street if you’re searching for comfortable, fashionable clothes that are perfect for NZ streetwear enthusiasts. We have plenty of awesome clothes and accessories from popular brands like Nike, Billabong, Thrasher and more.

If you’d like to speak to our team for any reason, please don’t hesitate to call us on 03 768 6513. We’d be glad to help. 

Westside Surf + Street: Helping NZ’s surfers look and feel good.

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