40 Years of History
From a small surfwear shop to the largest surfboard factory in Brazil
The history of Pro-Ilha Surfboards is a journey of growth and innovation in the world of surfing. It all began in May 1984, with the opening of the small QT Surf shop. In 1986, surfboard production started in a modest wooden facility. The company’s first shapers were Ricardo Ziemath and Zulmar Leao, who quickly helped establish Pro-Ilha’s reputation in the market.
In the early 1990s, the company moved its operations to a small building behind the owner’s house, expanding its capabilities. During this period, growth opportunities emerged, including the production of boards for brands such as 775, HD, Hang Loose, and 30 Pes. Talented shapers like Saulo Lira, Valdo Pirata, Crivela, and Joca Secco joined the team, bringing new experiences and options for customers.
Between the late 1990s and early 2000s, Pro-Ilha opened its first large headquarters, allowing a significant increase in production. This period also marked the beginning of important partnerships, such as contracts with Mormaii and advertising campaigns with Pepsi and Gatorade.
In 2008, Pro-Ilha entered the international market. Renowned Hawaiian shapers such as Tokoro and John Carper visited Brazil and were impressed by the facilities, resulting in new partnerships. The arrival of these international shapers drove the need for technological updates, leading to the acquisition of the first shaping machine, the DSD shape machine in 2009, followed by the Australian Aku Shaper the following year.
In the early 2000s, Pro-Ilha experienced a phase of intense technological and logistical evolution. The company began importing raw materials and exporting its products, establishing partnerships with major brands such as Rusty, Tokoro, John Carper, and Webber. Later, Chilli and Cabianca also joined Pro-Ilha’s portfolio. Finally, in November 2014, Pro-Ilha inaugurated its new model factory, designed to meet diverse needs and the continuous growth in production. With this modern structure, Pro-Ilha Surfboards consolidated its position as the largest surfboard factory in Brazil, recognized both nationally and internationally.
