22. Oct 2024
Kiteboard made with Algae-Based Polyurethane Sidewalls
Duotone Unveils Entire Kiteboard Series Replacing Petroleum-Based Materials with Checkerspot’s Algae-Based Polyurethane Sidewalls, powered by SWS Technology. An unprecedented collaboration between Duotone, Checkerspot, and SWS Board Technology sets a new standard for sustainability in the kiteboard industry.
Duotone (Molln, Austria), the world's leading kiteboarding brand, announces the launch of its latest line of Twin Tip Kiteboards, which feature algae-derived polyurethane sidewalls developed by California-based biotech company Checkerspot and manufactured by Dubai-based SWS Board Technology. This landmark achievement represents a significant shift away from traditional petroleum-based materials and a major step forward for sustainability in the outdoor industry.
While the use of sustainable materials in fashion and outdoor gear is becoming more common, scaling these innovations to replace traditional materials at mass production levels has proven to be a complex challenge. Issues such as cost, performance standards, and compatibility with existing manufacturing processes have hindered the commercial scale adoption of these materials—until now.
Duotone, known for its commitment to innovation and performance, took on this challenge by partnering with Checkerspot, an innovator in the biobased economy and renowned for transforming microalgae into renewable oils that replace petroleum in various applications. Checkerspot’s outdoor brand, WNDR® Alpine, has already demonstrated the power of these materials in high-performance skis, snowboards, and outdoor apparel.
Recognizing the potential, Duotone approached Checkerspot to explore integrating algae-based materials into kiteboards. “We've always strived to push the boundaries of both performance and sustainability. By incorporating algae-derived polyurethane, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our environmental impact while maintaining the high standards our riders expect,” explains Valentin Peiker, Product Manager at Duotone Kiteboarding.
The next critical step was enlisting SWS Board Technology, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), to bring this vision to life. After months of rigorous testing, prototyping, and refinement, the result is a new product line that incorporates a 61% biobased rail that meets the high performance standards demanded by kiteboarders worldwide.
A Blueprint for Industry-Wide Change
The introduction of Duotone's new kiteboard line is more than just a product launch—it serves as a blueprint for the outdoor industry to embrace sustainable materials on a global scale. The collaboration between Duotone, Checkerspot, and SWS Board Technology is a powerful example of how cross-industry, international partnerships can overcome traditional barriers to sustainability, from pricing and manufacturing to broad adoption.
“The strength of collaboration lies in its ability to unite diverse expertise and resources, driving innovation that no single entity could achieve alone. By working together, Duotone, Checkerspot, and SWS Board Technology have demonstrated how international partnerships can pioneer the use of sustainable materials, setting a new standard for the action sports boards industry and paving the way for a more environmentally responsible future,” commented Renske Visser, Sustainability Officer at SWS Board Technology.
The Future of Sustainable Outdoor Gear
By showcasing the successful integration of Checkerspot’s algae-based polyurethane into a high-performance product line, this collaboration is poised to inspire other companies to rethink their supply chains and adopt more sustainable practices. This launch is a call to action for the industry to move beyond prototypes and small production batches and make sustainable materials accessible to a global audience.
“The partnerships with Duotone and SWS Board Technology demonstrate that with true collaboration and deep commitment from critical members of the supply chain, we can move away from petroleum. It can be done at commercial scale,” said Matt Engler, Senior Director of Business Development, Checkerspot. “We look forward to creating more partnerships like this one, and bringing more sustainable materials to the broader market.”