By Erin Irish
Hurley is an American multinational corporation that designs, develops, manufactures, markets and sells surf and skateboard apparel and accessories worldwide. The company is based in Costa Mesa, California. Hurley was formed in 1979 by Bob Hurley, partner Bob Rowland, and business manager Joe Knoernschild as Hurley Surfboards/International Pro Designs.
Hurley became one of the premier surfboard shapers in Southern California. In 1983, the company licensed the U.S. rights to the Australian company, Billabong, and formed Billabong USA. In 1998, the licensing rights were up for renewal, but the management decided not to renew and to give their full attention back to the Hurley brand.
In 1999, Hurley International was reborn and in 2002, its prominence in the surfing world was recognized by Nike, Inc., so much so that it became a subsidiary of the giant athletic brand. Hurley sponsors professional surfers, professional skateboarders and has also sponsored various musicians. One of its most famous endorsements, which has brought the company relative success, is Blink-182.