Fifteen world titles. Over two decades as the undisputed best surfer on the planet. Kelly Slater is the greatest competitive surfer of all time — and for most of his career, he did it wearing Quiksilver. The pieces from that partnership are now some of the most collectible vintage surf items in existence.
The Partnership
Kelly Slater signed with Quiksilver in 1990 at age 18. What followed was one of the most successful athlete-brand partnerships in sports history. Slater won his first world title in 1992 and didn't stop. Quiksilver built their entire identity around him — and the signature pieces they produced together are extraordinary.
The Signature Boardshorts
Throughout the 90s and early 2000s, Quiksilver released multiple Kelly Slater signature boardshort lines. Each one reflected the era — bold prints in the 90s, more refined designs in the 2000s. The 2005 Kelly Slater 7x World Champion series is particularly sought-after, commemorating his record-breaking seventh title.
These pieces were made in limited quantities, worn by the best surfer in the world, and are now decades old. Finding one in good condition is genuinely rare. Finding one deadstock is extraordinary.
Beyond the Boardshorts
The Slater x Quiksilver partnership extended beyond boardshorts. Sweatshirts, t-shirts, long sleeves — all bearing the Slater signature or branding from his championship years. A vintage Quiksilver Kelly Slater sweatshirt from the 90s or early 2000s is a piece of surf history that you can actually wear.
The Collectibility Factor
Kelly Slater is still competing. His legacy is still being written. But the Quiksilver era — which ended in 2014 when he launched his own brand — is now closed. Those pieces are historical artefacts. And as time passes, they only become rarer and more valuable.
Collectors know this. Which is why Slater-era Quiksilver pieces move fast when they appear.
Shop at Backwash Vtg
We've sourced Kelly Slater x Quiksilver pieces from the championship era. Authentic, accurately described, and ready to ship worldwide. These don't come around often.
Shop the Kelly Slater collection at Backwash Vtg — before it's gone.