THIEVES have netted more than $4000 in stolen clothing after a smash-and-grab raid on Whytes mens and ladies wear store in Mittagong.

Proprietor John Whyte was called to the Hume Highway store in the early hours of yesterday morning after a security alarm was activated on the premises shortly after 4am.

Rather than being an opportunist theft, it appears the thieves knew exactly what they were looking for, targeting designer-labelled surf jackets and jeans.

A stock take was taken at the store yesterday morning which revealed around 20 surf jackets and about the same number of pairs of jeans were missing.

A small number of baseball caps and shirts were also taken in the raid.

Mr Whyte yesterday appealed to anyone who is offered cheap surf jackets or jeans in pubs and clubs to contact the police.

"Most of the missing surf jacket brands are Quiksilver and Realm which are valued at anything between $100 and $200," he said.

"The thieves obviously knew what they were looking for and have probably visited the shop previously to have a quick look around.

"They've taken a full rack of surf jackets which adds up to a very substantial amount.

"The alarm in the premises was activated but they were in and out very quickly before police and security personnel arrived.

"If anyone saw anything suspicious in the area or is offered cheap clothing, I would urge them to contact the police."

Inspector Michael Toohey from Bowral Police said three youths were seen in the vicinity at around the same time as the theft.

"Police are appealing to anyone with information regarding this theft, which will be treated in the strictest confidence, to contact Bowral Police on 4862 9299," he said.