Being first at inventing things has then been a core business for O’Neill.
In 1970, Jack invented the supersuit, a new piece of neoprene in which you could blow air to be more comfortable and recognizable in case you are lost in the ocean, waiting for rescue. The following year, in 1971, Jack’s son, Pat, invented the first surf leash. Since then, nobody imagines a surf deck without it to prevent you from losing your board.

Unfortunately, as fate would have it, some assumptions say that this same invention cost Jack his eye. Indeed, during one of many surf sessions one year later, after Jack fell off his board, the deck came back right into his left eye. Was it because of another wave coming back or because of the leash tied to his body? Jack himself wouldn't know what could be considered as the real reason of this accident. Nevertheless, that very moment is the one at the origin of this classical image of the One-Eyed-Jack, strongest label of the brand ever since.
That, however, didn't stop the company to innovate and, in 1976, O’Neill took over the mountains by launching the very first noeprene snow pants. Then, the 1980’s witnessed the appearances of the first rashguards and split-toe boots. You guessed it, invented by Jack’s crew, once again.