Umhlanga’s Gateway Theatre of Shopping was abuzz on Thursday, 14 November with the official launch of the RVCA [pronounced rew-ka] store, bringing this iconic Californian brand to Durban’s shores. The store opening attracted key stakeholders, brand partners and ambassadors, local personalities, and media, celebrating RVCA’s growing presence in South Africa. The brand’s unique collaborations with local talent are set to further entrench its identity in the region.

“We are super excited to be bringing an RVCA concept store to KZN shores. This store marks a new chapter in our Boardriders world, with several new store openings happening this side of the year and many planned for 2025,” said Dane Patterson, Sales & Marketing Executive Manager at Boardriders. Patterson highlighted that the store roll-out would represent RVCA alongside other Boardriders brands. “The RVCA brand is hot right now, and the timing for summer is perfect!”

RVCA’s Unique Heritage and Ethos

Founded in 1999 by Pat Tenore and professional surfer Conan Hayes, RVCA is built on the ethos of “The Balance of Opposites,” an idea encapsulated in its name. The V and A chevrons reflect the merging of nature and industrialisation, femininity and masculinity, and traditional and contemporary styles. RVCA’s approach is deeply collaborative, drawing inspiration from skate and surf culture, Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and more. Yet, RVCA stands out as a design-driven lifestyle brand that transcends the boundaries of traditional sportswear and fleeting trends. The Artist Network Programme (ANP), in particular, embodies this ethos, disrupting norms by supporting local artists and offering a platform for cultural expression.

Local Collaboration with Artist Shaun Oakley

For the Gateway store, RVCA has collaborated with renowned Durban multidisciplinary artist, Shaun Oakley (37), also known as Damn Vandal. With over two decades of experience in graffiti and illustration, Oakley has brought more than 2,000 walls to life, using a distinctive style that fuses digital and street graffiti art.

Shaun Oakley will be contributing to the Summer ’25 Collection and has also created the store’s graphics and artwork. Commenting on the opportunity, he expressed his excitement: “I think our brands align with one another and share the same energy. I felt it was a great opportunity to represent South Africa. I’ve followed RVCA for many years, seen a lot of their artist collaborations, and wanted to emphasise my passion and unique style… to portray elements of my life and adventures in Durban and bring those through with some conceptual quirkiness.”

Oakley explained that the store’s artwork connects to the Summer ’25 Collection: “I have used a variety of graphics and visuals true to my style and past experiences. I wanted to tell different stories within each artwork that represent my love for street cultures and graffiti.”

A Vibrant Shopping Experience at RVCA Gateway

Shoppers visiting the new RVCA store at Shop 210 on Gateway’s Ground Level can immerse themselves in Oakley’s vibrant artwork while browsing the brand’s diverse range of men’s and women’s apparel, swimwear, activewear, footwear, accessories, and artist-inspired collaborations.

The store is operated by New Pier Trading (Pty) Ltd as part of the Boardriders family, which also includes brands like Billabong, Quiksilver, Roxy, DC Shoes, and Element. With over 35 stores across South Africa, RVCA’s latest opening at Gateway continues to strengthen its foothold in the Durban market.

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RVCA - Boardriders
New Pier Trading (Pty) Ltd
Website: www.rvca.com

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Launch of Innovative RVCA at Gateway Fuses California Style with Homegrown Talent
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