Oru Kayak aims to simplify the kayaking experience for everyone. The founders recognized that kayaks were difficult to transport and keep. Thus they created a collapsible kayak that could be transported on your back. To address that issue, Anton Willis, Roberto Gutierrez, and Ardy Sobhani developed this kayak. The Oru Kayak is easy to carry and can be compacted into a small form. The aim was to simplify kayaking and make it enjoyable for all.
They aimed to introduce their product to a larger audience. They appeared on Shark Tank seeking an investment to expand their business. The Oru Kayak weighs 26 pounds and can be collapsed for convenient storage. Will the entrepreneur get a deal on Shark Tank? Check out the Packback update!
Oru Kayak Net Worth Shark Tank Update 2025
Anton Willis and Ardy Sobhani went on Shark Tank asking for $500,000 for 12% of their company. This meant they thought their business was worth $4,166,667. They made a deal with Robert Herjavec for $500,000 for 25%, lowering the valuation to $2,000,000. The episode was aired on May 16, 2014. The company continued to grow and was acquired by Solo Brands in 2021. Using the viral/heavy traction method, the current net worth of Oru Kayak is estimated to be around $25–30 million in 2025.
After the Shark Tank episode aired, Oru Kayak continued to grow. Although they didn’t get a deal from the Sharks, the business stayed strong. In September 2021, the brand was sold to Solo Stove for an undisclosed amount. Anton and Ardy stayed on as executives. The company kept making foldable kayaks. They focused on growing their product line and improving their brand.
As of 2024, Oru Kayak has an estimated annual revenue of $8 million. Their products are sold on the Oru Kayak website and Amazon. Several different foldable kayak models are available. They are still in business and have made a big impact in the kayaking world.
On Shark Tank, Oru Kayak asked for $500,000 in exchange for 12% equity. At first, all the Sharks were unsure. Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran both said no. Kevin O’Leary and Daymond John were also out due to financial concerns. This left only Robert Herjavec. He made an offer of $500,000 in exchange for 25% equity. Anton and his team tried to negotiate the deal.
Anton wanted 15% equity and a seat on the board. Robert said he expected to have a seat on the board anyway. Anton then asked for 20% equity. But Robert didn’t accept the counteroffer. The team finally agreed to Robert’s offer of 25% equity for $500,000. However, the deal did not close after the show aired. Despite not finalizing the deal, Oru Kayak still grew its business.
| Shark(s) Name | Offer & Demand | Counter Offer | Accepted? |
| Daymond John | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Robert Herjavec | $500,000 for 25% equity | #1 $500,000 for 15% equity #2 $500,000 for 20 % equity | Yes |
| Kevin O’Leary | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Barbara Corcoran | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Mark Cuban | Out | N/A | N/A |
Oru Kayak Shark Tank pitch
Anton Willis, Roberto Gutierrez, and Ardy Sobhani faced a shared issue. They enjoyed kayaking but disliked the inconvenience of transporting and storing the kayaks. Classic kayaks are bulky and weighty. They occupied a significant amount of space and were hard to transport. Thus the trio of friends desired to make something superior. They considered ways to make kayaking more available to all.
They desired a kayak that was lightweight for transportation yet sturdy for aquatic activities. After considering numerous concepts, they devised a foldable kayak. It can be effortlessly transported on your back and stored in tight areas. The product was inspired by their personal experiences with kayaking. They identified a demand in the market for something unique. They put in considerable effort to create a kayak that could be compacted to a small size and transported on your back.
This advancement allowed individuals to enjoy kayaking without concerns about storage or transport. The path was not simple for the creators. They encountered numerous obstacles during the initial phases. The design process was challenging, and they had to ensure the kayak was both strong and lightweight. They focused on refining the foldable design. The kayak had to be robust enough for actual kayaking journeys yet light enough to ensure portability.
The team encountered difficulties in locating the appropriate materials. They needed to ensure the kayak could endure the water and weather conditions. Finding the right equilibrium between durability and portability requires time. However, following extensive testing and modifications, they succeeded in developing the Oru Kayak.
As Anton, Roberto, and Ardy entered the Shark Tank, they possessed a definite objective. They requested $500,000 in exchange for 12% equity. They showcased their product with confidence. The Oru Kayak was a lightweight foldable kayak that weighed just 26 pounds. It could be effortlessly transported on your back. They demonstrated how it collapsed into a small form. The kayak could be expanded and assembled in only a matter of minutes.
It was ideal for those who wished to kayak without the trouble of transporting a bulky kayak. They further clarified that the kayak was sealed against water, making it ideal for any aquatic expedition. The founders additionally disclosed their sales figures. They had sold more than 1200 kayaks and generated $1.1 million in revenue. They anticipated finishing the year with $1.4 million in revenue.
Their main sales method for kayaks was online. They anticipated that the investment would assist them in expanding their business and attracting more clients. The Oru Kayak stood out from all other products available, and they felt it had the potential to achieve significant success. They felt thrilled to find out if the Sharks would concur with them.
The Sharks were curious about the Oru Kayak. Initially, they were interested in understanding the production expenses. Anton clarified that the expense to produce each kayak was $505. The retail cost was $1100, allowing them to achieve a healthy profit margin. The Sharks were curious about the percentage of the $1.1 million in sales generated by returning customers.
Anton mentioned that they possessed a solid customer base and that consumers adored the product. They obtained favorable reviews and had many clients coming back to purchase additional kayaks. The Sharks inquired about the demand for foldable kayaks. They were curious if individuals were prepared to purchase something so unlike conventional kayaks.
Anton described that there was an increasing demand for portable and lightweight items. An increasing number of individuals showed interest in outdoor pursuits such as kayaking. The Oru Kayak simplified the enjoyment of those activities for individuals. It was ideal for individuals lacking room to keep a conventional kayak.
The Sharks were also curious about the rivalry. Anton stated that there weren’t any kayaks similar to Oru Kayak. Although there were a few inflatable kayaks, they did not deliver the same performance as the Oru Kayak. The Sharks were taken by the distinct design and the kayak’s waterproof and sturdy qualities. They were also interested in learning about the team’s experience and background.
Anton, Roberto, and Ardy possessed a combination of talents in engineering and design. They shared a strong enthusiasm for simplifying kayaking for all.
The Sharks experienced varied responses. Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran believed Oru Kayak wasn’t suitable for them. They asserted that the market for foldable kayaks was insufficiently large. Kevin O’Leary and Daymond John likewise chose not to invest. They were worried about the finances and the risks associated. However, Robert Herjavec recognized the product’s potential.
He appreciated the concept and the design of the Oru Kayak. He proposed $500,000 for a 25% stake. Anton and his team were initially reluctant to surrender that much equity. They requested 15% ownership and a position on the board. However, Robert had no interest in that arrangement. Anton offered 20% equity in response yet Robert still refused. Ultimately the team accepted Robert’s initial proposal of 25% equity for $500,000.
Even though an agreement was reached on Shark Tank, the deal failed to finalize after the episode was broadcast. Nonetheless, the company persisted in expanding and attaining success. They were acquired by Solo Stove in 2021, which elevated the brand to new heights.
What Went Wrong With Oru Kayak On Shark Tank?
Oru Kayak faced some challenges on Shark Tank. Not all the Sharks were interested in investing. Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran didn’t think the product would succeed in the long term. They didn’t believe the market was large enough for foldable kayaks. Kevin O’Leary and Daymond John also decided not to invest. They were worried about the financial risks and whether the business could grow.
This left only Robert Herjavec. He made an offer but the founders didn’t initially agree. They tried to negotiate a better deal but eventually accepted Robert’s offer. The company didn’t get the deal they expected but they still managed to find success. They continued to grow their business and eventually sold to Solo Stove.
Product Availability
Oru Kayak’s foldable kayaks are available on their official website and on Amazon. The kayaks come in several different models. The Bay ST model is popular for fishing and backcountry trips. Oru Kayak’s products are priced at around $1100. The kayaks are lightweight and portable, making them a great choice for people who love outdoor adventures. Oru Kayak is also working to expand its product line.
Conclusion
Oru Kayak’s journey on Shark Tank helped bring attention to their innovative product. Although they didn’t close a deal on the show they still grew their business. The company sold to Solo Stove in 2021. Today Oru Kayak is doing well with a revenue of $8 million. Their foldable kayaks are available on their website and on Amazon.
Hey there, I’m Fatima Muhammad, an International Relations student, with a focus on the strategic dynamics of global relations, One of my favorite shows is Shark Tank. I love it because it showcases the creativity, determination, and strategic thinking of entrepreneurs, which I find inspiring. The show also teaches valuable lessons about innovation, business dynamics, and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. Read more About me.
