Who is KATIN?

Relatively new to the UK shores, Katin is one of the OG surf brands from California and a favourite of ours at Balsa Surf, the materials and build quality of their clothing really is next level.

A Heritage of Craftsmanship and Surf Culture

The surf world is steeped in stories of innovation, creativity, and lifestyle, but few brands embody these qualities like Katin.

Born in the mid-20th century, Katin’s rise to prominence mirrors the evolution of California surf culture, transforming from a local favourite to an iconic name synonymous with durability, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Let’s dive into the rich heritage of Katin and how it has shaped the surf world over the decades.


Timeless Quality in Modern Surf Culture

Today, Katin continues to hold its place as a cornerstone in surf culture. While much of the surf apparel world has shifted towards mass production and trend-driven designs, Katin has remained committed to its heritage of quality over quantity. Their surf trunks, still made with the same attention to detail and craftsmanship, are as popular with today’s surfers as they were in the 1960s.

The brand has also expanded beyond just surf trunks, offering a full range of apparel that reflects its connection to the ocean and California lifestyle. From t-shirts and hats to jackets and accessories, Katin’s designs are rooted in its deep history, blending timeless style with a modern touch.

What sets Katin apart in today’s crowded market is its authenticity. While trends may come and go, Katin’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and its place in surf history have ensured its enduring legacy. For those who wear Katin, it’s more than just apparel—it’s a piece of surf history, a nod to the pioneers of the sport, and a reminder of the craftsmanship and spirit that built modern surf culture.

Humble Beginnings in Canvas Craftsmanship

Katin’s story begins in the late 1950s, when Walter and Nancy Katin, a husband-and-wife duo, were running a canvas business in Seal Beach, California. Specialising in boat covers and other heavy-duty canvas products, the Katins earned a reputation for their sturdy craftsmanship. But it wasn’t long before their talents found a new home in the nascent world of surf.

In the early 1960s, as surfing’s popularity boomed along the California coast, local surfers sought out the Katins for an unusual request: boardshorts that could withstand the harsh conditions of constant ocean exposure. Surfing was in its experimental phase, with surfers making do with regular shorts that often frayed or tore after just a few sessions. Understanding the challenge, Walter Katin crafted the first pair of surf trunks from the same canvas material he used for boat covers. These tough, durable shorts became an instant hit among surfers.

The Birth of the Iconic Katin Surf Trunks

These hand-sewn, canvas surf trunks soon became a must-have for surfers who wanted gear that could hold up to the sport’s demands. Katin’s innovation not only filled a need in the surfing community but also laid the foundation for an entirely new category of surf apparel. These trunks, with their durability and clean lines, marked a turning point in surf fashion and functionality.

As Katin surf trunks gained traction, the brand’s philosophy of quality craftsmanship and practical design resonated with surfers seeking authenticity. Each pair of trunks was custom-made, and word-of-mouth quickly spread about the durability and comfort Katin offered. By the late 1960s, Katin was supplying surf shops along the California coast, building a reputation that extended beyond just gear—it became a symbol of the surf lifestyle itself.

The Legacy Grows: From Local Surf Brand to Global Influence

By the 1970s, Katin was firmly established as a leader in surf apparel. The brand wasn’t just about making rugged surf trunks—it had become part of the larger surf culture. Surfers, especially in California, saw Katin as more than just a product; it was a badge of honour worn by those who valued quality, heritage, and an adventurous spirit.

The Katins themselves became beloved figures in the surf community. Nancy Katin, in particular, was known for her hands-on involvement, personally taking care of the business long after her husband Walter passed away. She maintained close ties with surfers, often hosting the Katin Pro/Am Team Challenge, a surf competition held in Huntington Beach that still stands as one of the longest-running surf contests in America.

Katin’s influence grew internationally as the surf industry exploded into a global phenomenon. Yet, despite this growth, the brand remained true to its roots, continuing to craft high-quality products with the same commitment to durability and craftsmanship that defined its early days.

Carrying the Legacy Forward

Katin’s journey from canvas boat covers to crafting the first surf trunks is a testament to the brand’s ingenuity and dedication to the surf community. Over 7 decades later, the brand’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and its roots in surf culture remain strong. Whether you’re paddling out at your local break or walking the streets of a bustling city, Katin continues to represent the spirit of surf—timeless, resilient, and rooted in the pursuit of adventure.

See you Out There.

Balsa