From Quiksilver to BOEN: A Father-Son Legacy. A Conversation with Bob and Robbie McKnight.
He never missed anything: volleyball games, school events, family travels, everything. At the time, I didn't realize how rare that was. but looking back now, knowing how massive Quiksilver was and how much pressure he must have been under, it blows my mind. He made it seem effortless. That presence shaped how i think about showing up, not just at work, but in life.
- Robbie
It was really special. When he was building Cuater with Ben (CEO of BOEN), I didn't feel the need to insert myself. i trust him. Robbie has a natural sense of leadership, but what's impressive is how thoughtful he is. he's not just reacting; he's building something with intention. Watching him step into that role, while still being humble and collaborative, it's honestly one of the most rewarding things I've experienced as a dad.
Traits I think are improtant in a business leader: be patient, have a sense of humor, be steady and not reactionary, be truthful, be humble. Talk to your team as much as possible, and tell them everything: the good, the bad, the ugly. Honest information is power. try to instill balance, both for yourself and your employees, between work, play, and family.
- Bob
It was a balance of respect and autonomy. My dad's a huge supporter. he believes in what I'm building but gives me space to do it our way. He's always there for advice or perspective, but never hovers. that's rare. Most in his position might want control, but he leads with trust. And that sets the tone for everything.
- Robbie
Yeah, I've seen what happens when people get too involved. If the ship's going in the right direction, you don't grab the wheel. you just enjoy the ride. And Robbie's earned that trust. he's calm, thoughtful, and knows what he's doing.
- Bob
Legacy's not about titles or press. It's about showing up every day and doing things the right way, even when nobody's watching. If my kids remember me for being steady, fair, and present, not just for being the CEO of a surf brand, then I've done something right.
And with Robbie, I'm proud of the kind of leader he's becoming — someone who leads with both confidence and kindness. He listens. he's intentional. he doesn't need to be the loudest in the room, but people respect him. That's not something you can teach. It comes from values, and he's got those dialed in.
- Bob
His composure. even in high-stress situations, he stays level. I watched him navigate some wild stuff growing up — situations that would make most people crack, but he never panicked. That ability to keep a cool head, to stay grounded and not overreact, left a big impression on me.
Growing up, I don't think I fully grasped the sheer amount of juggling he did. i just saw my dad. He was there when I needed him, he seemed calm, he seemed like he had it all figured out. But now, after holding leadership roles at brands and as a real estate professional, I see through a new lens. I know what it's like to carry that kind of weight. And still, he made family a priority. that perspective shift really deepens my appreciation for what he did for us.
- Robbie
