Surf Expo Orlando USA January 8-10th 2025 Preview
Surf Expo the premier watersports and coastal lifestyle trade show, returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from January 8-10th with a massive selection of brands and resources for its retail buyer base.
This is largest gathering of watersports and coastal lifestyle professionals globally with over 750 exhibiting brands and an exciting lineup featuring exhibitors from across Surf, Shoreline, Boutique, Swim, Footwear, Resort, Coastal Gift, and Souvenir categories, offering retail buyers a chance to discover the next big trends and connect with industry leaders
Surf Expo Show Director and SVP Roy Turner shared his excitement for the upcoming event, saying, “The momentum for our January show is incredible. Buyer registration is tracking well above last year, and we are thrilled to welcome an outstanding mix of returning and new exhibitors and brands and this will be our largest event since 2020! with growth in all categories, with a particular highlight in our Surf and Shoreline sections..”
Brands exhibiting include such Reef, Oakley, Olukai, VISSLA, Outerknown, Sector 9, Firewire Surfboards, Slater Designs, Chubbies, Rusty, Katin, , , Tommy Bahama, Birkenstock, , Jetty, AVVA Brand, Salt Life, Elan, Simply Southern, , Exist, Guy Harvey, ALOHA Collection, Sanuk, HUK, Fahlo, Salty Crew, Body Glove, Seager Co., BN3TH, Free Fly, Baja Llama, Dippin Daisy’s, INSTINCT, Rhythm, Roark, Dark Seas, Costa, I-SEA, Sharp Eye, Haydenshapes, TAHE and Vineyard Vines. New brands to the event, including Melin, Goodr, Melan Suncare, Moai Boards, CAMP Eyewear, Attitude Skincare, and Goorin Brothers.
Surf Expo will welcome a diverse roster of retailers to the January show, ranging from globally recognised chains to boutique shops rooted in their coastal communities. Major retailers including, JCPenney, Walmart, Sam’s Club, REI, L.L. Bean, Glik’s, Spencer’s Gifts, The Paper Store, Marshall Retail Group, and Urban Outfitters, are set to attend, alongside specialty lifestyle outfitters like Academy Sports, Hibbett Sports, Play it Again, and Fleet Feet. In addition to the large-scale players, an array of independent retailers will also be attending, highlighting the grassroots spirit and authenticity that make Surf Expo unique such as, Cinnamon Rainbows, Rooster Bus, Hi Tech Surf Sports, Emerald City, Coastal Edge, Palmetto Moon, Bird Rock Surf Shop, Hansen Surfboards and South End Surf Shop.
“This is going to be a fantastic show, we’ve got a packed schedule of events, and key players from the surf and watersports community. And don’t forget your baggies, bikinis, or spring suit for the wave machine!” Turner added.
Surf Expo January will feature an exciting new addition sure to “make waves” on the show floor: Surf-Days Pop Up Wave Machine. This inflatable surf station uses advanced “flow” technology to deliver an authentic surfing experience that’s perfect for beginners or seasoned riders. Attendees will have the chance to ride waves—right on the show floor!
In addition to the Learning Labs sessions held throughout each day of the show, Surf Expo will also welcome an impressive lineup of keynote speakers including Rob Machado, Shaun Tomson, and Chris Bertish, each bringing their unique stories and insights. Rob Machado’s will present his short film By Design and follow it up with a live Q&A. Chris Bertish the Mavericks Big Wave Champion, Guinness World Record holder, author, and ocean pioneer, will present his keynote based on his latest book, ALL IN! The Atlantic SUP Crossing – 93 Days Alone at Sea on Thursday, at 10:30am. He will share the gripping journey, defying all odds and pushing the limits of human endurance. His keynote will challenge you to think big, pursue your dreams, and take bold steps toward achieving the impossible. Chris will also be onsite for book signings all three days on the Boardwalk. Shaun Tomson World Surfing Champion, best-selling author, entrepreneur, environmentalist, and leadership expert, will deliver a session titled The Code – How to Empower and Unite Your Team on Wednesday, at 2:30 PM. Shaun will present a powerful framework for creating a unified, purpose-driven team. Geared for retailers and exhibitors navigating today’s challenging business environment, offering actionable strategies to boost morale, foster collaboration, and achieve lasting success.
The 2025 Florida Shape Off returns to celebrate the artistry of hand-shaped surfboards, onoring the legacy of Pete Dooley of Natural Art, a pioneer in surfboard craftsmanship This year’s competition at the Shaping Bay, booth 269, will feature talented shapers including Greg Loehr, Allen White, Chris Birch, Tommy Maus, Bob Rohmann and Scott Busbey. Timing is as follows Wednesday, 11:00-1:00 – Allen White and 1:30-3:30 – Chris Birch, Thursday, 9:30-11:30 – Tommy Maus, 12:00-2:00 – Greg Loehr and 2:30-4:30 – Bob Rohmann and Friday, 9:30-11:30 – Scott Busbey. This will be followed by the winners award ceremony at 1:00pm.
With networking events like the Industry Party featuring Rage Against the DJ and Happy Hours, along with daily professional Fashion Shows, Surf Expo January 2025 will offer invaluable opportunities for commerce and connections to those in the watersports and coastal lifestyle industries.
Surf Expo is the world’s premier watersports and beach lifestyle trade show. As a proven must-attend event, international attendees can shop the best selection of heritage and new brands found at Surf Expo, visualise the trends emerging from the surf market, as well as build and reinforce relationships with brand partners. So its important for European brands and retailers to attend. See you in Orlando.
