Dakine

Dakine was founded in 1979 by Rob Carlson on Maui, Hawaii – originally with a single product: a foot strap system for surfboards designed to improve maneuvering on standing waves. The word "Dakine" comes from Hawaiian Pidgin English and means something like "the thing" or "the best of its kind" – a name that sounds modest but sets a high standard. Carlson recognized early on that the surfing community needed good, functional accessories that weren't just cheaply cobbled together. He gradually expanded the range with surfboard leashes and board bags.

Today, Dakine is one of the most important accessory brands in surfing, kitesurfing, and mountain sports. The product range is impressively broad: surfboard leashes in various thicknesses and lengths, board bags for shortboards and longboards, backpacks and bags, gloves for kiteboarding and windsurfing, harness protectors, helmets, and an extensive luggage line. The leashes and board bags in particular have an excellent reputation for durability and functionality. The backpacks combine surf aesthetics with practical organization – robust enough for everyday use, adapted for the beach. Dakine has been part of Marquee Brands since 2020.

Dakine does not have a manufactured surf culture – the brand is simply close to what surfers, kiters, and outdoor enthusiasts need. The design is functional, the workmanship solid, and the prices fair. This down-to-earth approach has earned Dakine a loyal community that values the brand for daily use – not for how it looks in a surf video.

At Surfari, we carry Dakine leashes, board bags, backpacks, and kite accessories – everything you need on the beach and on the water.