Top 10 Best Sports Gear Brands in North Devon

An Outdoor Playground on the Atlantic Coast

Few places in the UK are as closely tied to outdoor sport as North Devon. The golden beaches of Croyde, Saunton, Woolacombe and Putsborough attract surfers from around the world, while the South West Coast Path, Exmoor National Park and the traffic-free Tarka Trail draw walkers, runners and cyclists all year round. Braunton is often described as the spiritual home of British surfing and hosts the Museum of British Surfing, underlining the region's influence on surf culture.

This active lifestyle has nurtured local brands that grew from the beach up, alongside national outdoor names that equip everyone from weekend ramblers to serious athletes. The right gear makes a real difference in a region where the weather can change rapidly and the Atlantic swell rewards good preparation.

How We Chose the Brands

We evaluated brands on performance, durability, innovation, sustainability, value and local heritage. Brands that were founded in or have deep roots in North Devon received extra credit, as did those widely available to local shoppers.

The Top 10 Sports Gear Brands in North Devon

1. Tiki

Established in 1967, Tiki is a long-standing Braunton surf company that manufactures its own surfboards and wetsuits. Its decades of experience in North Devon's challenging conditions give it unmatched local credibility. Tiki's boards and wetsuits are trusted by beginners and experienced surfers alike, and its shop is a focal point for the local surf community.

2. Saltrock

Saltrock was founded in 1988 by brothers Ross and Angus Thomson. Beginning in Cornwall before moving to Croyde, the brand later established its headquarters in Braunton. Known for surf-inspired clothing, hoodies, swimwear and accessories, Saltrock has grown into a well-loved lifestyle brand that captures the relaxed spirit of the North Devon coast.

3. Second Skin

Second Skin is a Braunton surf shop founded in 1975 by Andy Schollick, who pioneered early wetsuit design innovations such as mixed-thickness materials and the C-Seal. Its legacy in wetsuit development makes it an important name in British surf history, and it remains a respected source of expert advice for local surfers.

4. Finisterre

Finisterre is a South West cold-water surf and outdoor brand celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and product longevity. Its technical knitwear, waterproofs and wetsuits are designed for Atlantic conditions, making them ideal for North Devon surfers and coastal walkers who value responsible manufacturing.

5. Gul

Gul is a British watersports brand with a long history in wetsuits, buoyancy aids and watersports accessories. It is popular with surfers, kayakers, sailors and paddleboarders on the Taw and Torridge estuaries. Gul's reliable performance and accessible pricing make it a common sight on North Devon beaches.

6. Animal

Animal is a British surf and action sports brand offering boardshorts, changing robes, wetsuits and casual clothing. Its changing robes have become especially popular among year-round swimmers and surfers who need warmth after chilly Atlantic sessions, a growing community across North Devon's beaches.

7. Mountain Warehouse

Mountain Warehouse provides affordable outdoor clothing and equipment for walking, camping and travel. Its waterproof jackets, walking boots and base layers are practical choices for families exploring Exmoor and the coast path. Frequent promotions make it a budget-friendly option for kitting out the whole household.

8. Berghaus

Berghaus is a respected British outdoor brand known for high-performance waterproofs, fleeces and rucksacks. Hikers tackling the demanding cliffs between Ilfracombe and Lynton value its reliable weather protection. Berghaus balances technical performance with everyday wearability.

9. Decathlon

Decathlon offers an enormous range of sports equipment across dozens of disciplines, from surfing and cycling to running and fishing. Its in-house brands deliver excellent value for beginners, and its online service ensures North Devon customers can easily access the full range.

10. Sports Direct

Sports Direct stocks leading sportswear and footwear brands alongside its own labels, covering football, running, gym training and team sports. It serves local clubs, schools and fitness enthusiasts who need accessible, affordable kit.

Trends in North Devon's Sports Gear Market

Sustainability is reshaping outdoor gear. Brands are investing in recycled fabrics, natural rubber alternatives to neoprene and repair programmes that extend product life. North Devon's surf community, deeply connected to ocean health, is at the forefront of demand for responsible products.

Year-round participation is another notable trend. Cold-water swimming, winter surfing and all-season trail running have grown significantly, increasing demand for thicker wetsuits, changing robes and technical layering. The rise of paddleboarding on the estuaries and the popularity of cycling the Tarka Trail have also broadened the market for leisure sports equipment.

How to Choose the Right Gear

Consider the conditions you will face. For surfing, choose wetsuit thickness according to the season, with thicker suits needed in winter. For walking, prioritise waterproof, breathable layers and supportive footwear. Seek advice from local surf shops, which offer invaluable knowledge of beaches and conditions, and invest in quality items that will withstand salt, sand and wind.

Final Thoughts

North Devon's sports gear landscape reflects a region shaped by the sea and the moors. From pioneering Braunton surf brands to trusted national outdoor names, the brands in this guide help residents and visitors make the most of one of Britain's finest natural playgrounds.