RVCA
Authentic Brands Group · United States
RVCA is an American clothing brand founded in 2001 in Costa Mesa, California, by PM Tenore and pro surfer Conan Hayes. Rooted in surf, skate and martial arts culture, it makes lifestyle apparel and is now owned by Authentic Brands Group.
| Founded | 2001 |
|---|---|
| Founders | PM Tenore and Conan Hayes |
| Headquarters | Costa Mesa, California |
| Owner | Authentic Brands Group (since 2023) |
| Website | rvca.com |
What is RVCA?
RVCA is a lifestyle apparel brand from Costa Mesa, California, founded in 2001 by PM Tenore and Hawaiian professional surfer Conan Hayes. The brand draws on surf, skate, art and combat sports culture.
History
Billabong acquired RVCA in 2010. When Boardriders took over Billabong in 2018, RVCA became part of the Boardriders portfolio, and in September 2023 Authentic Brands Group acquired Boardriders and its brands, including RVCA.
Products and positioning
RVCA makes clothing and accessories for men and women, from T-shirts and fleece to boardshorts and training wear. Two programmes define the brand's identity:
- The Artist Network Program, started in 2002, which supports established and emerging artists through collections, exhibitions and events, and published the ANP Quarterly magazine from 2005
- Sports sponsorship in surfing, skateboarding and mixed martial arts, beginning with fighter B.J. Penn in 2006
Why it matters
RVCA is a case study in how a surf brand built cultural credibility through art and fight sports rather than surfing alone, and its path through Billabong, Boardriders and Authentic Brands Group mirrors the consolidation of the action sports apparel industry.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns RVCA?
RVCA is owned by Authentic Brands Group, which acquired Boardriders and its brands in September 2023.
Who founded RVCA?
RVCA was founded in 2001 by PM Tenore and professional surfer Conan Hayes.