Current ecological problems
After a period in a company nursery in La Rochelle, Dwalin Paddles took off at the end of 2015. Its objective is to offer environmentally friendly kayak and SUP paddles using natural fibres, linen or jute and bio-sourced resins. Although SUP boards are already available in natural materials, accessories have been left aside to date.
Process improvement
The process developed when the company was launched by its founder Matthieu Méneuvrier consisted of infusing the two sides of the blades separately. They were then assembled on the core. This technique resulted in a large amount of waste.
In order to reduce losses and costs, and to allow better repeatability in production, Dwalin Paddles now switches to the RTM process, to produce the blades in a single operation.
On-line sale
Presented at the Nautic and at Etel's transportable boat show, the product appeals to users. Dwalin Paddles is therefore setting up its marketing system.
The dozen paddles sold since the actual commercial launch have been sold via the company's website. This is the preferred sales model to date. Nevertheless, Matthieu Méneuvrier would like to find a distribution network, in particular to find its place as a complement to linen fibre boards.
With a budget between 250 and 300 €, Dwalin Paddles is located on the top of the range of SUP paddles.
Development and new products
Today only the blades are in natural fibres, the handles in carbon-kevlar are bought. Dwalin Paddles is working on the development of linen fibre handles and handles, the main issue to date being stiffness.
The catalogue should be extended with a Va'a canoe paddle, a support in development whose philosophy corresponds to that of Dwalin Paddles.
Appointment is taken to follow the development of the young company.
