In 1979, Rob Kaplan began manufacturing the DaKine Leash in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii. The DaKine surf leash was designed for rigorous Hawaiian conditions and set the standard for innovative design and high quality. After this innovative breakthrough, DaKine started to build on its reputation by building technical surfing and windsurfing accessories, such as in 1980, when pro windsurfers asked Rob to help build footstraps for their new wave boards. Throughout the early 1980s, DaKine developed the 1st adjustable footstrap, seat harness, and waist harness, defining the company as the leading innovator in technical windsurfing accessories.

A true leader in the world of bags, packs, andaccessories, DaKine has also built a reputation in the travel category, whether it is board sport specific carriers or luggage. After celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2004, DaKine continues to pride itself on developing products for the top professionals in every board sport and building its reputation for innovation and quality for over a quarter of a century.