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January 15.2026
3 Minutes Read

What the Wing Group's Acquisition of Kokatat Means for Paddlers

Close-up of Kokatat life vest in outdoor setting.

Kokatat's New Chapter Begins

In a significant move for the paddlesports industry, Kokatat, famed for its high-quality paddlesports apparel, has been acquired by The Wing Group. This acquisition, announced on January 14, 2026, marks a pivotal moment as it not only brings Kokatat under a robust umbrella of marine and outdoor brands but also reaffirms the rich heritage of quality and innovation that has characterized Kokatat for over 50 years.

A Legacy of Quality

Founded by Steve O’Meara in Arcata, California, Kokatat has built a name synonymous with trust among paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts. The brand is well-known for its technical expertise in developing apparel that withstands the rigors of paddling while keeping users safe and comfortable. In the wake of the acquisition, Kokatat plans to maintain its independence while benefiting from the global support provided by Mustang Survival, another prominent brand within the Wing Group's portfolio.

Stronger Together: Kokatat and Mustang Survival

Andrew Branagh, CEO of The Wing Group, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasizing the shared values between Kokatat and Mustang Survival. “We believe this brought together the best capabilities in both fields, enhancing our ability to serve the paddling community,” Branagh stated. By merging the strengths of these brands, The Wing Group aims to provide even greater safety solutions for water environments.

What This Means for Paddlers

For Kokatat’s loyal customer base, this acquisition signals a fresh era filled with renewed energy and investment in product development. Mark Loughmiller, who became CEO of Kokatat after purchasing the company from O’Meara, will remain involved in steering the brand towards future success in collaboration with Wing Group leadership. In a recent joint statement, Loughmiller and Branagh assured customers that they would see enhanced support and commitment behind the products they love.

Industry Impact and Future Possibilities

The acquisition is part of a broader trend in the paddlesport and outdoor recreation market, which has seen notable mergers and acquisitions recently. This includes Jackson Kayak’s acquisition of Eddyline and Bass Pro’s takeover of Hobie. These industry shifts reflect a growing consolidation aimed at leveraging shared resources for better customer satisfaction and innovation. The impact of this acquisition and similar ventures may also inch paddlesports closer to mainstream recognition, ultimately attracting new enthusiasts to the sport.

Reasons to Celebrate

As paddlers gear up for another season, the excitement surrounding Kokatat’s acquisition foreshadows positive changes in the paddlesports landscape. With The Wing Group’s commitment to upholding Kokatat’s legacy of excellence, paddlers can look forward to enhanced product offerings and safety solutions designed specifically for their water adventures.

The merging of these trusted brands represents not just a business decision; it's a promise to the paddling community. As Kokatat integrates into the Wing Group, their shared commitment to innovation and quality will undoubtedly lead to thrilling advancements in paddlesport gear.

As you prepare for your next paddling adventure, keep an eye on the innovations coming from Kokatat and The Wing Group. Engage with your local paddling community, share your experiences with Kokatat gear, and enjoy the thrill of the waterways!

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01.16.2026

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01.15.2026

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