Dakine outdoor gear and accessories

Founded in 1979 by Rob Kaplan on the North Shore of Maui, Hawaii, Dakine began its journey by creating an innovative surf leash that could withstand the powerful waves of the Hawaiian coast. The brand's name, derived from the Hawaiian Pidgin phrase 'the kind,' quickly became synonymous with high-quality, durable equipment for extreme sports. In 1986, the brand relocated its headquarters to Hood River, Oregon, a hub for windsurfing and snowboarding, allowing it to expand its product line into winter sports and mountain biking gear.

Today, Dakine is recognized globally for its high-performance backpacks, luggage, gloves, and technical apparel designed for surfers, snowboarders, and cyclists. While the brand has deep American roots, its manufacturing is primarily outsourced to specialized facilities across Asia, including Vietnam and China, to manage its diverse technical production requirements.

Ownership of the brand has transitioned several times, reflecting the consolidation of the outdoor industry. Dakine was acquired by Billabong International in 2008 and later sold to Altamont Capital Partners in 2013. In 2018, the Marquee Brands firm acquired the brand’s global intellectual property, while operation of the business was transitioned to JR286, which serves as the core licensee and operator for the brand’s day-to-day business.