Dakine
Marquee Brands · United States
Dakine is an action sports equipment and apparel brand founded in 1979 in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii. It is known for backpacks, and also makes clothing, outerwear, luggage and accessories.
| Founded | 1979, Haiku, Maui |
|---|---|
| Founder | Rob Kaplan |
| Headquarters | Torrance, California |
| Owner | Marquee Brands |
| Website | dakine.com |
What is Dakine?
Dakine is a sportswear and sports equipment brand from the United States. It makes backpacks, clothing, outerwear, luggage and accessories for men, women and children.
History
Rob Kaplan founded Dakine in 1979 in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii. The company moved its base to Hood River, Oregon, in 1986. In August 2009, Billabong International acquired it for about US$100 million. In 2013, Dakine opened a new headquarters in Hood River, and Billabong sold the company to Altamont Capital Partners for US$70 million. By 2018 it had offices in Los Angeles, Hood River and Annecy, France. In 2020 the company moved its headquarters to Torrance, California. It is now part of Marquee Brands.
Why it matters
Dakine's history, from a Maui start-up to ownership by a listed surf group, a private equity firm and then a brand-management company, reflects the wider consolidation of action sports labels. It remains one of the better-known names in surf, snow and bike accessories.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Dakine from?
Dakine was founded in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii, in 1979 and is now headquartered in Torrance, California.
Who founded Dakine?
Dakine was founded by Rob Kaplan in 1979.