Surfing’s Most Innovative Entrepreneurs

From Mick Fanning to the GOAT, here are the most business-savvy wave riders of this generation.

Introduction: Surfing and Entrepreneurship

Ever wondered how surfers turn their passion into profitable ventures? Let’s dive into the world of surfing’s most innovative entrepreneurs, who’ve mastered the art of balancing waves and business.

Mick Fanning: Riding Success Beyond the Surf

Mick Fanning became a legend in the water, but his entrepreneurial journey didn’t stop at surfing. Post-retirement, Fanning leveraged his fame and business acumen to invest in ventures like Balter Brewery, which fetched him millions after acquisition. His approach? Simple: back ideas he believes in, like MF Softboards and Sea Forest, without getting lost in the numbers.

Koa Rothman: From Waves to Vlogs and Beyond

Koa Rothman isn’t just about big waves; he’s conquered digital waves too with his vlog, This is Livin’, and coffee venture, Sunrise Shacks. With a new partnership in Darc Sport and Magic Mind, Koa proves that entrepreneurship is about focus and commitment.

David Trewern: Surfing the Digital and Hydrofoil Waves

David Trewern, founder of Fliteboard, started his journey with a digital agency but found new heights in hydrofoiling. His electric surfboard company now spans continents, with accolades and revenues soaring past expectations.

Coco Ho: Carving a Path Beyond the Surfboard

Coco Ho isn’t just a pro surfer; she’s a savvy entrepreneur with ventures like XO Coco surfboards and collaborations with brands like Volcom and Pirette Beach. Her influence extends far beyond the waves.

Nicholas Woodman: Capturing Surfing Moments with GoPro

Nicholas Woodman, the mind behind GoPro, revolutionized how we capture action sports. From humble beginnings to a billion-dollar company, Woodman’s influence on surfing and beyond is undeniable.

Kelly Slater: Surfing’s Renaissance Man

Kelly Slater isn’t just a surfing icon; he’s a serial entrepreneur. From Outerknown to Surf Ranch and sustainable ventures like Endorfins and KLLY, Slater’s vision reshapes the surfing industry with every new venture.

Conclusion: Riding the Wave of Entrepreneurship

Surfers like Mick Fanning, Koa Rothman, David Trewern, Coco Ho, Nicholas Woodman, and Kelly Slater prove that passion and business savvy can create tidal waves of success. Whether it’s through surfboards, digital innovations, or lifestyle brands, these entrepreneurs continue to inspire on and off the waves.

Photo credit: ebony 

Learn more

• Mick Fanning – Mick Fanning
• Koa Rothman – Koa Rothman
• David Trewern – David Trewern
• Coco Ho – Coco Ho
• Nicholas Woodman – Nicholas Woodman
• Kelly Slater – Kelly Slater