The water sports gear industry is essential for activities like surfing, diving, and kayaking. It features companies ranging from large manufacturers to specialized retailers. These firms provide equipment including wetsuits, surfboards, and safety devices, constantly innovating to meet consumer demands. Trends such as eco-friendly products and digital retailing are shaping the market. This growth reflects a broader increase in outdoor and adventure sports culture, appealing to both casual participants and dedicated athletes. As safety and technology converge, companies are focusing on integrating smart gear in response to changing lifestyles.

This listing presents 21 noteworthy water sports gear companies based in multiple countries with varying sizes and specializations. Founded from 1943 to 2009, these firms range from small teams with under 50 employees to larger corporations with hundreds on the payroll. Their headquarters span regions from California to Italy, and they specialize in products such as wakeboards, diving equipment, and paddleboards. Each company contributes to the industry's dynamic growth, catering to both niche enthusiasts and general consumers.

Continue reading to discover the top water sports gear companies.

Top 21 Water Sports Gear Companies

1. Body Glove International

• Website: bodyglove.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Redondo Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 61%, Malaysia 13%, Canada 7%, Other 20%
• Latest funding: November 2016
• Founded year: 1953
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: body-glove-international

Body Glove International, based in Redondo Beach, California, is a retail company that specializes in water sports and outdoor gear. Established in 1953, the company has built a reputation for providing high-quality products tailored for water sports enthusiasts. Their extensive product line includes wetsuits, swimwear, surfboards, and a variety of accessories designed for both recreational and professional use. Body Glove operates an online store, ensuring that customers can easily access their offerings. The company has a significant presence in the water sports market, appealing to a broad audience that includes families and individuals of all ages. With a workforce of around 62 employees, Body Glove continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of water sports enthusiasts.

2. Cressi

• Website: cressi.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Genoa, Liguria, Italy
• Employee distribution: Italy 71%, United States (USA) 7%, South Africa 4%, Other 17%
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: cressi-sub-spa

Cressi, based in Genoa, Italy, is a private company specializing in scuba diving equipment. Since its inception in 1946, Cressi has developed a comprehensive range of products tailored for both recreational and professional divers. Their offerings include dive computers, regulators, masks, wetsuits, and various accessories, all designed to enhance safety and performance underwater. Cressi operates as both a manufacturer and retailer, providing direct access to their products through their online store. The company prides itself on its Italian craftsmanship, with a significant portion of its products manufactured in-house. Cressi also engages with the diving community through initiatives like the Cressi Ambassadors program, showcasing their commitment to the sport and its enthusiasts.

3. Hyperlite Wake MFG.

• Website: hyperlite.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Australia 10%, Russia 10%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hyperlite-wake-mfg.

Hyperlite Wake MFG. is a private company based in Redmond, Washington, specializing in the manufacture and retail of wakeboarding and wakesurfing equipment. Established in 1991, Hyperlite has built a reputation for quality and innovation, providing a wide array of products including wakeboards, bindings, wakesurfers, and apparel. The company caters to both recreational enthusiasts and competitive athletes, ensuring that their offerings meet the needs of various skill levels. Hyperlite is also known for its active engagement in the water sports community, sponsoring events and athletes, which further solidifies its presence in the industry. Their focus on safety and performance is reflected in their product designs, such as competition jackets and approved life vests, aimed at enhancing the overall experience for water sports participants.

4. O'Neill

• Website: oneill.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Warmond, South Holland, Netherlands
• Employee distribution: Netherlands 33%, United States (USA) 28%, Australia 5%, Other 33%
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: o%27neill

O'Neill is a surf wear brand based in Warmond, South Holland, Netherlands, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1952. The company specializes in the production and retail of high-quality wetsuits, swimwear, and outdoor apparel, catering to both water and snow sports enthusiasts. O'Neill's product range includes items designed for men, women, and children, ensuring that they meet the needs of a broad audience. The brand is particularly known for its innovative wetsuit technology, which emphasizes performance and comfort, making it a preferred choice among surfers and other water sports athletes. O'Neill also operates an online store, providing easy access to their products and related content, including guides on wetsuit sizing and maintenance. Their involvement in community initiatives, such as 'Save The Waves' and 'Surfers Not Street Children', highlights their commitment to the ocean and the surfing community.

5. Jobe Sports International

• Website: jobesports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Heerewaarden, Gelderland, Netherlands
• Employee distribution: Netherlands 61%, France 15%, Spain 5%, Other 19%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: jobe-sports

Jobe Sports International, based in Heerewaarden, Gelderland, Netherlands, is a private company that specializes in the manufacture and retail of watersports equipment. Established in 1974, Jobe has built a reputation for providing high-quality products that cater to a variety of water activities. Their extensive product line includes towables, life vests, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), wetsuits, and more, appealing to both individual consumers and commercial clients. The company emphasizes style and functionality in its offerings, which are available through their online store. Jobe's employee distribution reflects its international reach, with a significant presence in the Netherlands, France, and Spain, among other countries. This global footprint, combined with their long-standing history in the industry, underscores their active role in the watersports market.

6. Overton's

• Website: overtons.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Greenville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $70.0M, December 2007
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: overton%27s

Overton's, based in Greenville, North Carolina, is a retail company that has been serving outdoor enthusiasts since its inception in 1976. The company specializes in a wide array of products related to watersports, fishing, and boating. Their offerings include essential gear such as life jackets, kayaks, wakeboards, and various accessories designed to enhance the recreational experience on the water. Overton's caters to a broad audience, from casual water sports participants to serious anglers, ensuring that they provide quality products that meet the needs of their customers. The company has also received significant funding, amounting to $70 million, which underscores its potential for growth and innovation in the outdoor recreation market.

7. Liquid Force Wakeboards

• Website: liquidforce.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Carlsbad, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, Switzerland 8%, Italy 8%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: liquid-force-wakeboards

Liquid Force Wakeboards, based in Carlsbad, California, is a private company founded in 1995. It specializes in water sports equipment, particularly in wakeboarding and related products. The company manufactures a range of items, including wakeboards, wakesurf boards, bindings, and safety gear, aimed at both recreational users and competitive athletes. Liquid Force operates as both a manufacturer and a brand owner, ensuring high-quality gear for its customers. The company is also involved in promoting the sport through events and partnerships, such as being the official tow boat of Liquid Force. Their commitment to the water sports community is evident in their support for camps and parks, making them a notable player in the industry.

8. Hobie

• Website: hobie.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oceanside, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 67%, Mexico 15%, Canada 4%, Other 14%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: hobie-cat-company

Hobie, based in Oceanside, California, is a private company that specializes in manufacturing recreational products, particularly water sports equipment. Founded in 1950, Hobie has built a reputation for quality and innovation, offering a wide range of products including kayaks, pedalboards, surfboards, and accessories. The company is known for its pioneering MirageDrive technology, which revolutionized kayaking by providing a hands-free pedaling system. Hobie operates through a network of dealers and an online store, ensuring accessibility for customers. Their commitment to the water sports community is evident through various initiatives, including events, forums, and a dedicated fishing team. With a workforce of around 170 employees, Hobie continues to be a significant player in the water sports industry, focusing on enhancing the outdoor experience for enthusiasts.

9. Seac

• Website: seacsub.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Colombano Certénoli, Liguria, Italy
• Employee distribution: Italy 70%, Spain 20%, Greece 9%
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: seacsub-s.p.a.

Seac Sub Spa, based in San Colombano Certénoli, Liguria, Italy, is a private company that has been in operation since 1971. The firm specializes in the design and manufacture of equipment for scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming. With a workforce of approximately 74 employees, Seac caters to both individual consumers and businesses through its retail and wholesale channels. The company offers a comprehensive range of products, including diving packages, wetsuits, masks, fins, and various accessories, ensuring that they meet the needs of recreational divers and swimmers alike. Seac's commitment to quality and innovation has allowed it to maintain a significant presence in the water sports industry, particularly in Italy, Spain, and Greece, where the majority of its operations are concentrated.

10. NRS - Northwest River Supplies, Inc.

• Website: nrs.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Moscow, Idaho, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%, Chile 3%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nrs---northwest-river-supplies-inc-

NRS - Northwest River Supplies, Inc., based in Moscow, Idaho, has been a prominent player in the outdoor equipment market since its inception in 1972. The company specializes in water sports gear, catering to a wide range of activities such as kayaking, rafting, and fishing. NRS offers an extensive selection of products, including inflatable kayaks, rafts, paddles, life jackets, and safety equipment, making it a go-to source for outdoor enthusiasts. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, which is reflected in its Rock Solid Guarantee. NRS also promotes sustainability through its used gear program, allowing customers to purchase pre-owned equipment at reduced prices. With a workforce of around 106 employees, NRS remains focused on its mission to help people enjoy their time on the water, fostering a community of passionate water lovers.

11. Square One Distribution, Inc.

• Website: ronixwake.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Issaquah, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: square-one-distribution-inc-

Square One Distribution, Inc., based in Issaquah, Washington, is the parent company of Ronix Wakeboards, a brand that has been crafting specialized equipment for water sports since its inception in 1990. The company focuses on manufacturing and retailing products for wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and wakefoiling, offering a comprehensive selection that includes boards, boots, vests, and various accessories. Ronix is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, continually developing new technologies and designs to enhance the performance and experience of water sports enthusiasts. The company operates primarily in the consumer market, targeting both recreational users and competitive athletes. With a dedicated team and a strong community presence, Ronix has carved out a niche in the water sports industry, making it a relevant player in this sector.

12. Aqua Lung UK

• Website: aqualung.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Blackburn, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2016
• Founded year: 1943
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: aqua-lung-uk

Aqua Lung UK, based in Blackburn, England, is a private equity-owned company that has been a significant player in the scuba diving, freediving, and snorkeling equipment market since its inception in 1943. The company specializes in manufacturing and retailing a wide array of products tailored for both recreational divers and water sports enthusiasts. Their offerings include regulators, buoyancy control devices (BCDs), dive computers, wetsuits, masks, fins, and various accessories. Aqua Lung UK is committed to safety and performance, ensuring that their products meet the high standards expected by divers. The company has a rich history, having pioneered many innovations in diving technology, and continues to evolve with the industry by integrating modern technologies into their products. Aqua Lung UK operates solely in the UK market, with a dedicated workforce that focuses on delivering quality gear to its customers.

13. Bote

• Website: boteboard.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Miramar Beach, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2022
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bote-boards

Bote, based in Miramar Beach, Florida, is a recreational products retailer that has carved out a niche in the water sports industry since its inception in 2008. The company specializes in paddle boards, kayaks, and a variety of accessories tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. Bote's product line includes both inflatable and solid paddle boards, as well as a range of kayaks designed for different activities, from fishing to leisure. Their innovative approach is highlighted by proprietary technologies like Gatorshell and Aero, which enhance the performance and durability of their products. Bote also engages with its community through content such as how-to guides and podcasts, fostering a lifestyle brand that resonates with water sports lovers. The company operates primarily through e-commerce, allowing for direct consumer access to their offerings, which include not just watercraft but also outdoor furniture, drinkware, and coolers, making them a comprehensive player in the outdoor recreation market.

14. HO Sports

• Website: hosports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Snoqualmie, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Australia 8%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ho-sports

HO Sports, based in Snoqualmie, Washington, is a private company that has been a player in the water sports equipment market since its founding in 1982. With a workforce of approximately 197 employees, the company specializes in a variety of water sports products, including skis, tubes, paddleboards, and accessories. HO Sports caters to water sports enthusiasts by providing quality gear designed for activities such as water skiing and tubing. Their website serves as an online retail platform, allowing customers to purchase products directly. The company also emphasizes customer engagement through initiatives like a demo program, which allows potential buyers to try products before purchasing. This focus on customer experience, combined with their extensive product offerings, positions HO Sports as a relevant entity in the water sports industry.

15. Airhead

• Website: airhead.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2021
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: kwik-tek-inc.

Airhead, based in Denver, Colorado, is a company that specializes in watersports equipment. Since its inception in 1991, Airhead has focused on providing high-quality products designed for outdoor recreational activities. Their product lineup includes towable tubes, life jackets, water skis, and various accessories, catering to families and individuals who seek safe and enjoyable experiences on the water. The company emphasizes innovation and design, aiming to enhance the fun of water activities while ensuring safety. Airhead has built a reputation for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, as reflected in positive customer feedback. Their active involvement in the watersports industry and focus on creating memorable outdoor experiences solidify their position as a relevant player in this market.

16. Tabata USA, Inc

• Website: tusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Long Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tabata-usa-inc

Tabata USA, Inc., founded in 1952 and based in Long Beach, California, is a private company that specializes in the design and manufacture of diving and snorkeling equipment. The company offers a comprehensive range of products tailored for recreational divers and snorkelers, including masks, fins, snorkels, regulators, and various accessories. TUSA operates through a network of dealers, ensuring that their high-quality gear is accessible to enthusiasts across the United States. Their focus on innovation and technology in product development is evident in their offerings, which include advanced features aimed at enhancing the underwater experience. TUSA's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established them as a notable player in the water sports gear industry.

17. XCEL Wetsuits

• Website: xcelwetsuits.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Haleiwa, Hawaii, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Netherlands 7%, Canada 7%
• Latest funding: March 2020
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: xcel-wetsuits-hawaii

XCEL Wetsuits, established in 1982, is a corporate entity located in Haleiwa, Hawaii, specializing in wetsuits and accessories for surfing and diving. The company caters to a wide audience, offering products for men, women, and youth, which includes fullsuits, springsuits, UV/rash guards, and various accessories like boots and gloves. XCEL is dedicated to enhancing the performance and comfort of water sports enthusiasts through innovative wetsuit technology. Their commitment to quality is evident in their product lines, which are designed to meet the specific needs of surfers and divers. The company also engages in eco-initiatives and collaborates with athletes, showcasing their involvement in the broader water sports community. With a workforce of around 28 employees, XCEL maintains a focused approach to its operations, ensuring that it remains relevant in the competitive water sports gear market.

18. Kokatat INC.

• Website: kokatat.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arcata, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: kokatat-inc-

Kokatat INC., based in Arcata, California, has been a prominent player in the outdoor gear market since its inception in 1973. The company specializes in high-quality apparel and accessories tailored for water sports enthusiasts, particularly those engaged in kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other aquatic activities. Kokatat's product lineup features a variety of essential gear, including dry suits, life vests, and dry tops, designed to meet the rigorous demands of outdoor adventurers. Their commitment to quality is evident in their manufacturing processes, which prioritize durability and performance. Kokatat also offers repair services, ensuring that customers can maintain their gear over time. This focus on customer service, combined with their extensive experience in the industry, positions Kokatat as a reliable choice for water sports enthusiasts seeking dependable equipment.

19. WakeMAKERS

• Website: wakemakers.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: wakemakers-corp

WakeMAKERS, established in 2009, is a private retail company based in the United States that specializes in water sports equipment and accessories. The company primarily serves wakeboarding and wakesurfing enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive selection of products including ballast systems, boards, safety gear, and various accessories. WakeMAKERS operates mainly as a B2C retailer, ensuring that customers have access to the necessary gear to enhance their water sports experiences. With a dedicated team and a focus on customer satisfaction, WakeMAKERS has carved out a niche in the water sports industry, providing essential products that cater to the needs of both casual and serious water sports participants.

20. Palm Equipment International Limited

• Website: palmequipmenteurope.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Clevedon, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: Ireland 50%, United Kingdom (UK) 50%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: palm-equipment-international-limited

Palm Equipment International Limited, based in Clevedon, England, has been a player in the outdoor sports equipment sector since its founding in 1979. The company specializes in paddlesports gear, offering a comprehensive range of products that include personal flotation devices, paddles, jackets, drysuits, and safety equipment. Their focus on quality and safety gear positions them as a reliable choice for kayaking and paddleboarding enthusiasts. With a workforce of around 22 employees, Palm Equipment operates primarily as a retailer, ensuring that their products meet the needs of both recreational and professional paddlers. Their commitment to the paddlesports community is evident through their extensive product offerings and customer support initiatives.

21. Baltic Lifejackets

• Website: baltic.se
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sweden
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 39%, Sweden 39%, Netherlands 22%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: baltic-lifejackets

Baltic Lifejackets, officially known as Baltic Safety Products AB, is a Swedish company founded in 1977. With a workforce of 11 to 50 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the safety equipment market, specifically focusing on life jackets and safety products for various water activities. Their offerings cater to a broad spectrum of consumers, including recreational boaters, families, and even pet owners, ensuring safety on the water. Baltic operates an online store, allowing customers to purchase their products directly, which enhances accessibility. The company is committed to quality, conducting regular quality control throughout the production process and providing a five-year warranty on their life jackets. They also prioritize sustainability, developing life jackets from recycled materials, which reflects a growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Baltic Lifejackets has established itself as a reliable player in the water sports gear industry, with a focus on safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility.

Water Sports Gear Insights: Key Companies

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Body Glove International	Redondo Beach, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1953	Corporate
Cressi	Genoa, Liguria, Italy	201-500	1946	Private
Hyperlite Wake MFG.	Redmond, Washington, United States (USA)	51-200	1991	Private
O'Neill	Warmond, South Holland, Netherlands	201-500	1952	Private
Jobe Sports International	Heerewaarden, Gelderland, Netherlands	51-200	1974	Private
Overton's	Greenville, North Carolina, United States (USA)	201-500	1976	Corporate
Liquid Force Wakeboards	Carlsbad, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1995	Private
Hobie	Oceanside, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1950	Private
Seac	San Colombano Certénoli, Liguria, Italy	51-200	1971	Private
NRS - Northwest River Supplies, Inc.	Moscow, Idaho, United States (USA)	51-200	1972	Private
Square One Distribution, Inc.	Issaquah, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	1990	Private
Aqua Lung UK	Blackburn, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1943	Private Equity
Bote	Miramar Beach, Florida, United States (USA)	51-200	2008	Corporate
HO Sports	Snoqualmie, Washington, United States (USA)	51-200	1982	Private
Airhead	Denver, Colorado, United States (USA)	51-200	1991	Corporate
Tabata USA, Inc	Long Beach, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1952	Private
XCEL Wetsuits	Haleiwa, Hawaii, United States (USA)	11-50	1982	Corporate
Kokatat INC.	Arcata, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1973	Private
WakeMAKERS	United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Private
Palm Equipment International Limited	Clevedon, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	1979	Private
Baltic Lifejackets	Sweden	11-50	1977	Private

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