Leilani McGonagle’s Favorite Rip Curl Products

The 24-year-old surfer from Costa Rica shares her favorite Rip Curl gear for surfing, along with picks from the Fall 2024 collection.

Currently ranked 2nd in the QS standings for North America, Leilani McGonagle recently claimed victory at the La Marginal Surfing Pro in Puerto Rico. The 24-year-old surfer from Pavones, Costa Rica, grew up in front of one of the world’s most beautiful left-hand point breaks. Coming from a family of surfers, Leilani was introduced to the waves before she could even walk.

Today, she balances her competitive career, intense training, and studies in communications at Harvard University. In early October, during her time in Portugal for the Ericeira Challenger Series, Leilani took a moment to share her favorite Rip Curl products—not only for surfing but also from the Fall 2024 collection.

I’d say the Ebomb is my favorite, both the 3/2 and the 4/3 are great options. The material is super flexible, which makes a big difference for me—especially since I grew up surfing in bikinis. When I started wearing wetsuits, I struggled to get them on, but the flexibility of the Ebomb has been a game changer. It’s made my cold-water sessions so much more enjoyable, even as someone who usually isn’t a fan of chilly conditions.

I’m a big fan of the surf suits, especially the long sleeves for sun protection. But when it’s warm, I love wearing the premium surf bikinis—they’re super reliable, stay in place, and come in so many flattering cuts that are fun to mix and match.

Her two favorite picks from the Fall 2024 Season are the Soleil Puffer Jacket and the Anti-Series Cropped Jacket.