Outerknown, Firewire Surfboards, and Slater Designs are thrilled to announce their first joint tradeshow appearance since officially partnering in early 2024. The three purpose-driven brands—all linked by eleven-time World Surf League champion Kelly Slater, co-founder of Outerknown and majority shareholder in Firewire Surfboards and Slater Designs— are sharing a space at Surf Expo on January 8th-10th in Orlando, FL.
This collaborative showcase features a new collaboration between Outerknown and Kelly, which has been curated for surf specialty retail, alongside Firewire and Slater Designs’ latest innovations in surfboards and accessories.
Attendees can visit adjoining booths to explore the brands’ innovative products—from versatile, eco-friendly apparel designed for in and out of the water, to new surfboard shapes, fins, traction pads, leashes, and other essential accessories. Representatives from the brands are on hand to discuss wholesale partnerships and their commitment to eco-conscious craftsmanship.
“We are incredibly proud to be showcasing our new apparel collection, which is made with 95% preferred materials—organic, Regenerative Organic Certified®, recycled, or regenerated,” said Dylan Slater, CEO of Outerknown, Firewire Surfboards, and Slater Designs. “Buyers are able to experience our elevated, lasting, and versatile wardrobe staples designed for both in and out of the water, crafted from the highest quality, most sustainable materials. Alongside these, our surfboards and accessories reflect our unwavering commitment to sustainability without compromising performance.”
In addition to the product showcase, Firewire Surfboards is excited to announce they premiered “ROB MACHADO: BY DESIGN”, a short film that delves into the life and career of Rob Machado—Pipe Master, free surfer, and world-class shaper. Directed by David Malcom, the film explores Machado’s competitive history, early equipment choices, and the inspiration behind his renowned surfboard designs
The film provides an intimate look at Machado’s journey as a world class shaping and designing talent, from his youth in Encinitas, Ca with his father’s homemade shaping bay in the backyard, to today, with his popular Seaside, Too Fish and Machadocado built in Firewire Surfboards Helium Technology at quality surf shops everywhere. ROB MACHADO: BY DESIGN presents the culmination of Rob’s shaping journey, premiering at Surf Expo, just weeks ahead of his highly anticipated ‘The Groove’ surfboard model launching globally this coming March.
The global premiere of “ROB MACHADO: BY DESIGN” took place at Surf Expo on Wednesday, January 8th with Machado in attendance. The film will also be available for free viewing on the brands’ YouTube channel later this year.
About Firewire Surfboards:
Since 2006, Firewire Surfboards has been on a mission to inspire and enhance the surfing experience. Through innovative and quality surf products built with the conscious minimization of harm to the planet, we believe in our ability to improve the lives of the people and communities we touch.
About Outerknown:
Founded in 2015 by pro surfer Kelly Slater and creative director John Moore, Outerknown’s mission is to craft elevated, lasting wardrobe staples, empower the people making them, protect natural resources, and inspire industry change through transparency and an unwavering commitment to responsible sourcing practices.
