California, US – Checkerspot’s algae-derived polyurethane is a key component in the latest kiteboards from Munich-based Duotone. The boards are manufactured by Dubai-based SWS Board Technology.
The microalgae-derived PU is used to make the boards’ sidewalls. Checkerspot is already using the PU in its WNDR Alpine skis and snowboards, and Duotone recognised the potential of the material in its kiteboards.
Board rails created with algae-derived PU
They worked with the OEM SWS Board Technology to create the boards. The result, after months of testing, prototyping and refinement, is a product line that has a 61% biobased rail that still meets the high performance standards demanded by kiteboarders.
“We’ve always strived to push the boundaries of both performance and sustainability,” said Valentin Peicker, product manager at Duotone. “By incorporating algae-derived polyurethane, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our environmental impact while maintaining the high standards our riders expect.”
The companies hope their collaboration will inspire others to rethink their supply chains, and use sustainable materials for more than just prototypes and small production batches.
“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, Checkerspot’s senior director of business development. “We look forward to creating more partnerships like this one, and bringing more sustainable materials to the broader market.”
