Legendary Surf Brand Lightning Bolt Hangs Up the Towel in Venice

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Major bummer for wave riders: after over 40 years of outfitting surfers and stylish beach bums, legendary surfboard and apparel brand Lightning Bolt is calling it quits.

Founded by legendary surfer Gerry Lopez and surf shop owner Jack Shipley in 1970, the then-Hawaii-based brand got its start shaping boards for pro riders before creating clothing midway through the decade. The brand was sold by its founders 20 years ago and recently relocated its Stateside HQ to Venice, where it opened a flagship boutique. Lightning Bolt tells us the decision to shutter "is nothing romantic—we lost the North American license."

The brand is bidding its last adieu to Venice with a major store closing sale now through next Wednesday, September 30th. Hit up the brand's boardwalk shop (1510 Pacific Ave.) for major deals everything in stock, including women's and men's apparel and swimwear, surf accessories, and more.