Slyde Handboards:It All Started From a Food Tray

From a fast food tray to a wave riding tool for everyone. The lift and extra speed of food trays, were the driving force behind Slyde Handboards innovative product line. Slyde's newest shape, the Phish, is exclusively available through Kickstarter.

Slyde handboards aims to spread smiles and stoke.

It all started with a fast food tray. Steve Watts, founder of Slyde Handboards, grew up onthe South African coast constantly searching for new ways to surf.

"It's true, we're not just here to make Handboards. We're here to revolutionize the way people experience the ocean."

Angela Ferendo, Slyde Operations Director

From fast food trays to flip flops, Steve and his friends attempted to surf with anything they could find, eventually realizing the fast food tray was the best tool. “Tray hunting was serious business back in the day, and the need for the perfect ride often outweighed the need to not be chased down the beach by flailing armed restaurant staff,” claims Steve Watts.

Steve’s passion for innovation led him to Venice Beach, California, where Slyde Handboards was established. “Venice has an electricity and vibe that an entrepreneur can feed off of. I feel it's really important to be somewhere that energizes and inspires you on a daily basis,” said Steve.

Venice Beach did just that. The first board to hit the market in 2010 was the Slyde Wedge Woody. After four years, the Slyde Phish is now available exclusively to the Kickstarter community. 

The Slyde Phish is 18.5 inches in length and 8.5 inches in width with a 3mm-sourced veneer skin. The Phish has an expanded polystyrene core for added buoyancy and lift, and weighs in at approximately 460 grams. Design enhancements include, a high-density leash plug insert and a hand strap that will "never come out."

Just as the tagline suggests, “The Slyde Phish will get you hooked on handboarding.”

The Slyde Phish Kickstarter campaign began on June 25th 2014, and will conclude July 16th 2014.

Slyde offers a variety of rewards for its backers starting at $5. A minimum pledge of $149 allows backers to pre-order the Phish Board. The $21,000 in funding from the Kickstarter pledges will pay for costs associated with the Phish Board, including: molds, tools, materials and labor.

The campaign launched 12 days ago and has generated $11,667 with 65 individual backers. Slyde now has 8 days remaining to reach its $21,000 funding goal.

Kickstarter campaigns are only given funding if the entire goal is met.

Slyde Handboards are offering exclusive in person Phish board demos, photos and interview opportunities for members of the press.

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