The Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA) is a prominent nonprofit trade organization representing the interests of the surf industry in the United States. Established in 1989, SIMA serves as a member-owned association that unites diverse stakeholders across the surfing sector including surf apparel and accessories manufacturers, board builders, retailers, representatives, suppliers, media, and professional service companies. Its mission focuses on fostering the growth of the surf industry through innovation, stoke, and sustainability while maintaining a strong commitment to ocean health and environmental stewardship.

Overview

SIMA acts as a collaborative platform where industry leaders work together to build a solid foundation for the surf industry. The organization champions initiatives aimed at ocean protection, business sustainability, public policy advocacy, humanitarian causes, and professional surfing development. By engaging its members, SIMA plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of surfing both as a sport and commercial enterprise.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To support the growth of the surf industry through fearless innovation, stoke, and sustainability.
• Vision: A healthy ocean leading to a healthy industry.

Membership and Benefits

SIMA membership provides access to a broad array of resources and opportunities designed to strengthen business practices and promote sustainable growth in the surf sector. Benefits include:

• Access to exclusive industry research and insights to inform business decisions.
• Participation in educational programs that keep members up-to-date with evolving market and sustainability trends.
• Opportunities to network and collaborate with industry peers.
• Tools and initiatives supporting sustainable product development and environmentally responsible business practices.
• Engagement in public policy efforts to protect ocean environments and support industry resilience amid challenges such as tariffs and supply chain disruptions.
• Support for humanitarian outreach within the surf community.

Through these offerings, members contribute directly to vital initiatives supporting environmental conservation and the socioeconomic development of the industry.

Environmental and Community Initiatives

SIMA actively supports the health of oceans and coastal environments via its Environmental Fund, which since 1989 has awarded over $9 million to various environmental organizations. Notably, SIMA has maintained a long-standing partnership with groups like Coastkeeper, supporting efforts to enforce clean water regulations and protect aquatic ecosystems. These initiatives underscore SIMA’s commitment to aligning industry growth with ecological sustainability.

Industry Impact and Trends

The organization also produces research and reports relevant to shifting dynamics within the surf community. For instance, a 2024 report highlighted increased diversity in surfing participation, noting a decline in Caucasian surfers’ market share alongside growth among African American, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander surfers. Such insights reflect SIMA’s role in promoting inclusivity and broadening the sport’s appeal.

Notable Members

SIMA’s membership roster features influential companies and entities within the surf industry, including major brands like the World Surf League, Vissla, Rip Curl, Vans, O’Neill, and Surfline.

In summary, the Surf Industry Members Association stands as a critical nonprofit organization fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in the American surf industry, while actively advocating for ocean health and inclusive industry growth.