The water sports gear industry in the US is thriving, covering a broad range of activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Companies in this sector manufacture and sell equipment like boats, safety gear, fishing apparel, and innovative water-based fitness equipment. This industry shows remarkable growth potential, driven by increasing consumer interest in outdoor recreation and sustainable practices. Notably, weather patterns and climate awareness are influencing demand for eco-friendly products, while advancements in technology are creating opportunities for smart gear. The market is becoming more competitive as brands strive to distinguish themselves with unique offerings and enhanced experiences.


The top investors listed hail from varied backgrounds, including venture capital, private equity, and corporate sectors. Spanning cities like New York, New Orleans, and Buford, these companies vary significantly in size and scope. Founded from 1959 to 2023, the firms showcase a commitment to innovation in the water sports gear field, with 2024 deal counts ranging from 1 to 258. Interest in active lifestyles is driving investments, demonstrating a clear focus on navigating future growth and opportunities in the water sports marketplace.


Top 18 Water Sports Gear Investors in the US


1. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In recent years, the Government has actively supported the water sports gear industry through various grants. For instance, ALUULA Composites raised $729,114 in a grant in June 2023, which is likely related to innovative materials for water sports gear. Additionally, Blue Ocean Gear received a grant of $104,000 in July 2020, indicating a focus on water sports equipment. The Government also supported Kayaking Tours with a grant of $48,294 in September 2023, further highlighting its commitment to promoting water-related activities and businesses.


2. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses across various sectors, including agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. Notably, Advantage Capital has also made significant investments in the water sports gear industry, providing debt financing to companies such as Drake Waterfowl Systems, Xplor Boatworks, Excel Boats, and Century Boats. These transactions highlight their commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in the water sports sector, particularly those in underserved communities, by offering flexible capital solutions to help them grow and thrive.


3. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund, part of Alumni Ventures, is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios. With a network of over 10,000 investors, the firm focuses on connecting them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notably, the fund has been involved in transactions with companies like Hydrow, which raised significant funding rounds to develop innovative fitness equipment that simulates rowing, a water sport. This involvement highlights the fund's interest in the fitness and water sports sectors, making it a relevant player in the water sports gear market. Other transactions include Klymit, which specializes in outdoor gear, and Rollick, indicating a broader interest in consumer products that may intersect with water sports gear.


4. OneWater Marine

  • Website: onewatermarine.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Buford, Georgia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: one-water-marine

OneWater Marine Inc. is a corporate investor based in Buford, Georgia, specializing in the marine dealership sector. Founded in 2014, the company has rapidly expanded its footprint by acquiring leading marine retail dealerships across North America. OneWater Marine offers a diverse range of products, including new and pre-owned boats, repair and maintenance services, and financing options, catering to both consumers and businesses in the recreational boating market. Notably, OneWater Marine has made significant acquisitions that enhance its presence in the water sports gear context, such as the acquisition of PartsVu, an online marketplace for OEM marine parts, which generated approximately $25 million in sales over the past year. This acquisition, along with others like Norfolk Marine, Naples Boat Mart, and Stone Harbor Marina, demonstrates OneWater's commitment to expanding its offerings and services in the marine industry, making it a key player in the water sports gear market.


5. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions and strategic guidance to smaller middle-market businesses across various industries. Founded in 1988, Riverside manages a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Arena Italia, a brand known for swimwear and water sports gear, which highlights Riverside's engagement in the water sports sector. Additionally, their investments in companies like Bike24, a retailer focused on cycling and outdoor activities, and SIGG, known for its water bottles, further demonstrate their interest in businesses that align with active lifestyles and outdoor sports, which can overlap with water sports gear.


6. L Catterton

  • Website: lcatterton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm founded in 1989, specializing in investment management with a focus on consumer brands across various sectors. The firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. Notably, L Catterton has made significant investments in the water sports gear context, including the acquisition of West Marine, a leading omni-channel platform in the marine aftermarket, which underscores their commitment to the marine and water sports industry. Additionally, L Catterton has invested in Hydrow, a company that focuses on rowing machines and related fitness equipment, which, while not directly water sports gear, indicates their interest in water-related activities and consumer brands. This combination of investments highlights L Catterton's strategy to drive growth and innovation within its portfolio companies, particularly in sectors related to water sports.


7. Brunswick Corporation


Brunswick Corporation is a leading marine recreation company based in Mettawa, Illinois, founded in 1845. The company specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of boats and marine propulsion systems, serving both consumers and businesses in the marine industry. Brunswick is committed to sustainability and advanced technology, operating globally with a diverse range of products and services. Notably, Brunswick has made significant acquisitions to strengthen its position in the water sports gear market. In 2023, they acquired Fliteboard, a pioneer in eFoiling technology, to expand into the electrification market. In 2015, they acquired BLA, Australia's largest provider of boating, lifestyle, and adventure products, enhancing their distribution capabilities in the region. Other acquisitions, such as Garelick Mfg. Co., Navico, and Lankhorst Taselaar, further illustrate Brunswick's strategy to enhance its marine parts and accessories business, solidifying its role as a key player in the water sports gear industry.


8. Blackstone

  • Website: blackstone.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a prominent investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for its extensive portfolio and investment strategies across various sectors, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Notably, Blackstone has made significant investments in the outdoor and sports gear market, including the acquisition of Billabong International, which raised $364 million in post-IPO equity in 2013. This investment highlights Blackstone's engagement with brands that cater to water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, their acquisition of Jack Wolfskin, a German outdoor retailer, further demonstrates their commitment to the outdoor lifestyle sector, which often overlaps with water sports. These transactions reflect Blackstone's strategy of building strong businesses and delivering lasting value, particularly in industries that resonate with active lifestyles.


9. Vista Outdoor Inc.


Vista Outdoor Inc. is a corporate investor based in Anoka, Minnesota, founded in 1916. The company designs, manufactures, and markets a diverse range of sporting and outdoor products, catering to outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality and innovative offerings. Vista Outdoor operates through a portfolio of renowned brands, focusing on performance-driven goods. Notably, they have made significant acquisitions in the water sports gear sector, including the purchase of Jimmy Styks, LLC for $40 million, which allows them to enter the stand-up paddle board market. Additionally, their acquisition of Simms Fishing Products for $192.5 million diversifies their portfolio into the fishing industry, aligning with their long-term growth strategy. These strategic moves highlight Vista Outdoor's commitment to enhancing their presence in the water sports gear market.


10. Patrick Industries, Inc.


Patrick Industries, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Elkhart, Indiana, specializing in the manufacturing and distribution of component products and building materials for various markets, including Recreational Vehicles, Marine, Manufactured Housing, and Industrial sectors. Founded in 1959, the company has established a strong network of brands and operates across multiple states, providing high-quality materials to manufacturers. In recent years, Patrick Industries has made significant acquisitions in the marine sector, including Marine Accessories Corporation, a manufacturer of marine products, and SeaDek Marine Products, known for its non-slip foam flooring for the marine OEM market. Additionally, they acquired Tumacs Covers, which specializes in custom boat covers, and Wet Sounds, a designer of audio systems for marine applications. These transactions highlight Patrick's strategic focus on expanding its presence in the water sports gear industry, making it a key player in this market.


11. Garmin


Garmin Ltd. is a technology company founded in 1989, headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, specializing in GPS navigation and wearable technology. The company offers a diverse range of products, including smartwatches, fitness trackers, automotive navigation systems, and marine electronics. Garmin serves consumers and businesses across various industries, providing solutions that enhance navigation, fitness tracking, and outdoor activities. Notably, Garmin has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the marine sector, including:1. **Vesper Marine** (Announced on Jan 03, 2022): Garmin acquired Vesper Marine, a provider of marine communication equipment and services, to enhance its marine product lineup and improve situational awareness for boaters.2. **Nautamatic Marine Systems** (Announced on Mar 28, 2007): This acquisition focused on innovative autopilot systems, further strengthening Garmin's Marine Network offerings.These transactions highlight Garmin's commitment to expanding its capabilities in the marine and water sports gear market, making it a significant player in this industry.


12. Norwest Equity Partners (NEP)

  • Website: nep.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1961
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: norwest-equity-partners

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP) is a private equity investment firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1961. The firm specializes in private equity and investment management, focusing on building industry leaders by providing capital and strategic guidance to businesses across various sectors. NEP emphasizes long-term partnerships and sustainable growth, catering primarily to companies seeking to enhance their operations and market position. Notably, NEP has invested in companies such as Christy Sports, which is involved in outdoor and sports gear, and Shock Doctor Sports, known for its mouthguards and protective sports gear. Additionally, NEP acquired United Sports Brands, the parent company of Shock Doctor, further solidifying its presence in the sports equipment market. These transactions highlight NEP's engagement in the sports gear industry, which includes potential relevance to water sports gear.


13. BRS & Co.


BRS & Co. is a private equity firm based in New York, specializing in managing assets for lower middle market consumer companies. Founded in 1995, the firm focuses on providing strategic advice and operational support to management teams, aiming to drive sustainable growth through investments and acquisitions. Notably, BRS & Co. has made significant investments in the outdoor and sports sectors, including the acquisition of Shearwater Research Inc., a prominent manufacturer of dive computers and rebreather electronics, which highlights their engagement in the water sports gear industry. Additionally, they have invested in Evolv Sports & Designs, further indicating their interest in the sports and outdoor market. Their portfolio also includes acquisitions in other sectors, such as motorsports safety equipment and outdoor products, showcasing their diverse investment strategy while maintaining a focus on consumer products and services.


14. Safe Harbor Marinas


Safe Harbor Marinas is a corporate investor based in Dallas, Texas, founded in 2015. The company specializes in marina services, offering boat storage, maintenance, and exclusive member events across a vast network of locations. With a focus on enhancing the waterfront lifestyle, Safe Harbor Marinas has made significant strides in expanding its portfolio through various acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of four California coastal marinas, such as Cabrillo Isle Marina, and the family-owned Saugatuck Yacht Service in Michigan. These acquisitions have positioned Safe Harbor as the largest marina owner and operator in the U.S., with a total of 115 marinas across 22 states as of May 2021. Their commitment to the marine community and the boating lifestyle makes them a key player in the water sports ecosystem, even if they do not directly invest in water sports gear.


15. Northstar Capital

  • Website: northstarcapital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: northstar-capital

Northstar Capital is an investment management firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, specializing in junior capital investments and equity co-investments for lower middle market companies. Founded in 1993, the firm has raised nearly $2 billion in capital and focuses on providing tailored financing solutions across various industries, including healthcare and consumer goods. Notably, Northstar Capital has made investments in companies relevant to the water sports gear sector, such as Crownline Boats, which manufactures recreational boats, and Drake Waterfowl Systems, which produces gear for waterfowl hunting. These transactions highlight their engagement with companies that cater to water-related activities, further emphasizing their relevance in the water sports gear market.


16. TechNexus Venture Collaborative

  • Website: technexus.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: technexus

TechNexus Venture Collaborative is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2007. The firm focuses on creating growth opportunities for corporations and entrepreneurs through joint ventures, investment funds, and a collaboration center aimed at fostering innovation and market entry for startups. TechNexus has been involved in several funding rounds for Catch Co., a company that specializes in fishing gear and related products. Notably, TechNexus participated in Catch Co.'s $38 million Series B funding round in April 2021, which aimed to expand the company's product categories and enhance its content offerings. Additionally, they were involved in multiple earlier funding rounds for Catch Co., indicating a sustained interest in the fishing gear market, which is a segment of water sports gear.


17. Goodwater Capital

  • Website: goodwatercap.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Burlingame, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 41
  • LinkedIn: goodwater-capital

Goodwater Capital is a venture capital firm based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2014. The firm specializes in consumer technology and supports seed-stage entrepreneurs by providing investment, resources, and a community to help them grow. Goodwater Capital has a diverse investment portfolio, including sectors such as healthcare and financial services, aiming to improve access to technology solutions for underserved communities. Notably, they have participated in transactions related to outdoor sports, such as their investment in Captain Experiences, which raised $2 million to facilitate fishing trips across the US. Additionally, they have invested in companies like Boardcave and FishyHub, which, while not exclusively focused on water sports gear, indicate an interest in the broader outdoor and sports market.


18. Altamont Capital Partners


Altamont Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Palo Alto, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in long-term investments in middle market businesses, partnering with management teams to provide capital and strategic support aimed at operational improvements and growth. Altamont has a diverse clientele across various sectors, but they have made significant investments in the action sports and water sports gear industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Dakine, a well-known brand in the water sports gear market, on July 18, 2013. They also acquired Fox Racing on December 19, 2014, which, while primarily focused on motocross, has a crossover appeal to water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, their acquisition of Mervin Manufacturing, a designer and manufacturer of snowboards, further highlights their engagement in the action sports sector, which encompasses water sports. These transactions illustrate Altamont's commitment to investing in companies that cater to the water sports gear market.



Water Sports Gear Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
OneWater MarineBuford, Georgia, United States (USA)1001-500020141
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
Brunswick CorporationMettawa, Illinois, United States (USA)10001+18450
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
Vista Outdoor Inc.Anoka, Minnesota, United States (USA)1-1019160
Patrick Industries, Inc.Elkhart, Indiana, United States (USA)10001+19593
GarminOlathe, Kansas, United States (USA)10001+19890
Norwest Equity Partners (NEP)Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019611
BRS & Co.New York, New York, United States (USA)11-5019950
Safe Harbor MarinasDallas, Texas, United States (USA)1001-500020150
Northstar CapitalMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019931
TechNexus Venture CollaborativeChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-5020075
Goodwater CapitalBurlingame, California, United States (USA)51-200201441
Altamont Capital PartnersPalo Alto, California, United States (USA)11-5020101


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