Volcom is an American lifestyle and action sports apparel brand with deep roots in skateboarding, surfing and snowboarding. Since its establishment in 1991, the company has grown into one of the most recognisable names in boardsports culture, merging performance-oriented clothing with art, music and youth creativity. Its iconic Stone logo serves as a symbol of individuality and self-expression among athletes, artists and outdoor enthusiasts.1

• Brand Name: Volcom
• Founded: 1991
• Founders: Richard Woolcott and Tucker Hall
• Headquarters: Costa Mesa, United States
• Industry: Apparel, Footwear, Accessories
• Specialisation: Skateboarding, Surfing, Snowboarding, Lifestyle Fashion
• Signature Motto: “True To This”
• Official Website: Volcom

Volcom was founded in 1991 following a snowboarding trip to Lake Tahoe undertaken by friends Richard Woolcott and Tucker Hall. Driven by their passion for snowboarding, skateboarding and surfing, they sought to create a company that embodied the freedom and creativity of board sports rather than traditional corporate values.

Operating initially from their bedrooms in Southern California with a US$5,000 investment, the pair recorded first-year sales of approximately US$2,600. Despite this modest start, the brand quickly gained recognition within skateboarding and surfing communities for its authentic image and distinctive designs.2

Volcom identifies itself as “America’s First Boarding Company”. Rather than focusing on a single discipline, the brand unites skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, music and art under one identity. Its long-standing slogan, “True To This”, encourages individuals to pursue their genuine passions regardless of mainstream expectations. This philosophy has remained central to the brand’s identity for over three decades.3

Volcom produces a wide range of products for men, women and children across several categories.

Clothing

• T-shirts
• Hoodies
• Jackets
• Jeans
• Shorts
• Pants
• Dresses
• Flannels

Surf Collection

• Boardshorts
• Rash guards
• Wetsuits
• Swimwear

Snow Collection

• Snow jackets
• Snow pants
• Base layers
• Gloves
• Technical outerwear

Skate Collection

• Durable pants
• Graphic tees
• Hoodies
• Skate-inspired apparel

Accessories

• Hats
• Beanies
• Backpacks
• Wallets
• Belts
• Socks
• Sunglasses

The brand’s aesthetic is characterised by streetwear sensibilities, skate-inspired fashion and influences from surf culture. Designs often feature minimalist yet bold graphics, premium outerwear construction and relaxed fits. Artistic collaborations are also a frequent element of Volcom collections. Many products prominently display the Stone logo, which remains one of the most recognisable symbols in action sports.

Volcom has sponsored hundreds of professional athletes across skateboarding, surfing and snowboarding. Beyond apparel, the company has collaborated with musicians, artists, photographers and filmmakers, contributing to the broader development of action sports culture.4

In recent years, Volcom has expanded its sustainability initiatives as part of a broader commitment to responsible product development. These efforts include increased use of recycled materials, more responsibly sourced cotton, lower-impact manufacturing practices and environmental awareness campaigns.5

Volcom has undergone several changes in ownership throughout its history:

• 1991: Founded independently by Richard Woolcott and Tucker Hall.
• 2005: Became a publicly traded company.
• 2011: Acquired by Kering.
• 2019: Acquired by Authentic Brands Group, which continues to own the brand and licenses its operations to partners.6

Volcom is distinguished by its authentic action sports heritage, creative independence and strong ties to youth culture. Unlike many fashion labels, its identity has consistently centred on the cultures of skateboarding, surfing and snowboarding, supported by music and art collaborations, premium technical outerwear and a dedicated community of riders and creators.

Volcom products are currently sold in North America, Europe, Australia, Japan, South America and numerous other international markets through retailers, distributors and e-commerce platforms.7

• Volcom refers to itself as “America’s First Boarding Company”.
• The Stone logo is among the most recognisable symbols in skate, surf and snowboard culture.
• The brand has maintained the slogan “True To This” for many years.
• Throughout its history, Volcom has supported independent music, film and art alongside boardsports.8

Founded in 1991, Volcom is a pioneering American action sports brand that blends skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, music and art into a distinctive lifestyle identity. Built on the philosophy of “True To This”, it has evolved from a small California startup into a globally recognised brand known for durable apparel, creative collaborations and enduring influence on boardsports culture. Today, Volcom is owned by Authentic Brands Group and continues to serve athletes, artists and action sports enthusiasts worldwide.9

1. About Volcom | True to This
2. Volcom
3. Quiksilver, Billabong and Volcom stores across the US will close as operator files for bankruptcy
4. LLM Info – Volcom
5. History – Volcom United Kingdom
6. About – Volcom
7. About – Volcom Europe
8. História – Volcom Brasil – Loja Oficial
9. Sobre Nós – Volcom Brasil – Loja Oficial