EXIT Watersports: Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Making Waves
Interview With Kieran
We spoke with our long-time Surfpreneurs member Kieran Sammon, founder of EXIT Watersports Accessories, who has been part of the Surfpreneurs community for over four years. What started as a simple need — a wetsuit hanger that actually works — turned into a full-fledged brand creating clever, practical watersports gear for surfers, kiteboarders, and wingfoilers. From the XRail wetsuit hanger to the innovative XTend top, Kieran’s journey shows how spotting a small problem in the lineup can grow into a global entrepreneurial opportunity.
The Origin of EXIT
The story began with a simple frustration. Kieran couldn’t find a wetsuit hanger that actually worked. “[...] I just couldn’t find a solution that worked for me, so I made the first version of the XRail,” he recalls. What started as a practical solution for his own needs quickly grew into a business committed to clever design, durability, and sustainability.
Every product begins with a real challenge. Besides the XRail, the XTend top, designed to block wind chill and keep your core warmer, is another example of how he translates everyday watersports frustrations into thoughtful solutions. “A great accessory has to solve a real problem. The biggest design sin is just copying what’s already out there,” he explains.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Launching a physical product isn’t easy. Kieran faced two main hurdles: securing funding and finding the right people to turn his ideas into reality. Marketing has also been a learning curve — “still working on it, I will let you know if I ever figure it out,” he jokes. Yet every sale and shipment is proof that EXIT is growing and resonating with its community. These challenges have shaped both the brand and Kieran’s approach, showing that persistence, creativity, and a sense of humor go a long way in entrepreneurship.
Collaboration & Community
Collaboration is key to Kieran’s approach. The XTend top (Material), for example, was co-created with another watersports enthusiast. “We developed the XTend range together and are working on a few more things in the background,” he explains, showing how ideas from others can directly shape innovative products.
He actively taps into the Surfpreneurs network, exploring partnerships and sharing ideas with fellow entrepreneurs. “I am also currently chatting with another Surfpreneurs member about his business falling in under Exit, they have some really cool products which I feel would be a good fit for Exit.”, Kieran says. For him, these community-driven collaborations aren’t just inspiring; they’re a core part of turning creative ideas into reality.
Rooted in Ireland, Inspired by the Water
Being part of the Irish watersports scene since 2002 has deeply shaped both Kieran and EXIT. From kitesurfing and SUP to surfing and wingfoiling, he’s experienced the water from every angle — as a competitor, an event organizer, and an enthusiast. “I’ve been involved at many different levels, from running events to being amateur Irish kitesurf champion in 2006,” Kieran explains. “Yes, I’m old.”, he jokes. This firsthand experience ensures that every product EXIT creates is practical, durable, and truly user-focused, designed for people who spend as much time on the water as he does.
Advice for Aspiring Watersports Entrepreneurs
His advice is straightforward: “Stop putting it off and get it made. Today, it’s easier than ever to turn an idea into a real product, from 3D printing to factories ready to bring your vision to life.” Kieran’s long-term goal is to grow EXIT into a globally recognized brand in watersports accessories.
Where to Find EXIT
Explore EXIT’s full range at www.exitwatersports.com,
or find them on socials: @exitwatersports (a follow as well as sharing is always much appreciated).
Interviewed by Lina Heller
Ocean-lover, wanna-be surfer, and yoga teacher. Helping surfers and creatives ride both waves and ideas. Always curious, slightly chaotic, but fully here for good vibes and better stories.
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