History of Volcom
Volcom was founded in 1991 by Richard Woolcott and Tucker Hall in Costa Mesa, California. The brand
emerged from their shared passion for skateboarding, surfing, and snowboarding, with a vision to
create apparel that truly represented the energy and creativity of youth culture. From the
beginning, Volcom focused on innovative designs and high-quality materials, quickly attracting
attention from athletes, artists, and enthusiasts who resonated with its bold and unconventional
style. The stone logo and the motto 'True to This' became iconic symbols of the brand’s dedication
to individuality, self-expression, and the rebellious spirit of board sports.
Throughout the
1990s and 2000s, Volcom expanded its presence beyond clothing. The company began sponsoring top
professional athletes in skateboarding, surfing, and snowboarding, strengthening its connection to
the action sports community. Volcom also launched events and music festivals, creating platforms for
creative collaboration and cultural engagement. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and
environmental initiatives became more pronounced, with programs aimed at reducing environmental
impact and supporting ocean conservation and youth programs around the world.
In 2011, Volcom
was acquired by the French luxury group Kering, which helped it grow into a globally recognized
brand while maintaining its authentic identity. In 2019, Volcom returned to independent ownership
under Authentic Brands Group, allowing it to focus even more on innovation, sustainability, and its
roots in action sports. Today, Volcom continues to be a major influence in skateboarding, surfing,
and snowboarding culture, staying true to its founding principles while embracing new technologies,
eco-friendly practices, and creative collaborations that inspire the next generation of athletes and
artists.