Thurso Surf
About the Company
Thurso Surf specializes in inflatable stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) with designs inspired by vintage surf culture, combining aesthetics with high performance. Their flagship board, the Waterwalker, is an all-around SUP that suits various activities, such as yoga, fishing, and touring. The company’s products are celebrated for their user-friendly features, making them convenient for on-the-go storage and easy transportation. Thurso Surf prides itself on catering to a broad customer base across North America and beyond, selling directly through their website and selectively on Amazon to maintain quality control.
Idea Behind Company
The idea for Thurso Surf arose when You and Li reconnected over their shared passion for paddleboarding. With You’s background in fluid dynamics and Li’s experience in SUP manufacturing, they were well-equipped to bring their concepts to life. They noticed a lack of durable and portable boards on the market and saw an opportunity to innovate in the inflatable SUP space. Their goal was to create versatile and high-quality boards that would appeal to a wide range of users, capitalizing on the growing popularity of paddleboarding as an outdoor sport.
Creating the Company
You and Li began developing their first product with a focus on stability, versatility, and user experience. After designing and prototyping multiple models, they collaborated with manufacturers to achieve the precise specifications they envisioned for their SUPs. Inspired by vintage surfboards, they incorporated a wood-grain aesthetic into their inflatable boards, despite technical challenges. Their commitment to quality and functionality led them to test each board meticulously, resulting in a product line that meets both beginner and experienced paddlers' needs.
Launching the Business
Thurso Surf’s soft launch on Amazon allowed the team to gauge customer interest and refine their product based on feedback. By prioritizing customer service and quality, they quickly built a positive reputation on the platform, which provided early exposure and insights. The team eventually transitioned to selling primarily on thursosurf.com, allowing for a more personalized customer experience and better control over inventory and logistics. This strategic shift was crucial for growth and resilience, as it minimized their reliance on Amazon’s ever-changing policies and restrictions.
Earnings
Today, Thurso Surf earns over $100K in monthly revenue, with most sales occurring through their website. They’ve achieved substantial growth, positioning themselves as a leading brand in the mid-range SUP market. Despite challenges with global logistics, the company continues to thrive due to its dedicated customer base and the team’s focus on quality and community engagement. Looking forward, they aim to expand their global reach and reinforce their commitment to connecting people with nature through accessible and high-quality watersports equipment.
