Jackson Kayak Inc: Revolutionising Recreational Kayaking and Outdoor Adventures
Jackson Kayak Inc has emerged as a pioneering force in the world of recreational and whitewater kayaking. Founded in 2003 by Olympic and world champion kayaker Eric “EJ” Jackson, along with his business partner Tony Lunt and design collaborator David Knight, the company has grown from a specialised whitewater kayak producer into a multifaceted outdoor recreation powerhouse. Headquartered in Sparta, Tennessee, Jackson Kayak Inc is renowned for its innovation, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to making outdoor adventures accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts of all levels.
The Origins and Growth of Jackson Kayak Inc
Founding and Early Years
Jackson Kayak Inc was born from the vision of Eric Jackson, whose extensive experience as a professional kayaker and designer propelled him to create a brand that would challenge the status quo in paddle sports. After years working with Wave Sport Kayaks, Eric sought to bring fresh innovation and superior design to the kayaking industry. In October 2003, along with Tony Lunt and David Knight, he established Jackson Kayak in Rock Island, Tennessee.
From its inception, the company focused on developing high-performance whitewater kayaks that combined durability, agility, and user-friendly features. The initial product range quickly gained recognition for its quality and design ingenuity, enabling Jackson Kayak to capture the attention of serious paddlers and beginners alike.
Expansion of Product Lines
As the company matured, it broadened its scope beyond whitewater kayaks. Recognising the growing demand for diverse paddling experiences, Jackson Kayak expanded into recreational kayaks, fishing kayaks, and even outdoor accessories. This diversification was guided by the same principles of innovative design, quality, and customer-centric development.
The launch of Jackson Adventures in 2004 marked a significant milestone, bringing a wider variety of outdoor products under the company umbrella. Notably, the introduction of the Orion cooler brand in 2014 complemented the kayaking offerings by providing premium outdoor storage solutions tailored to adventure enthusiasts.
In 2018, Jackson Kayak made a groundbreaking entry into personal recreational and fishing craft with Blue Sky Boatworks. This super-stable and highly efficient platform redefined standards in fishing kayaks and won the coveted Best Fishing Craft award at the 2018 iCast event, underlining the company’s leadership in product innovation.
Innovation in Outdoor Equipment
Continuing its tradition of innovation, Jackson Kayak introduced the FlexDrive 3D propulsion system—a revolutionary technology seamlessly integrating upgradable propulsion, power, and steering solutions. This system represents one of the most advanced interfaces between the user and their craft, enhancing the paddling experience with improved control and efficiency.
In 2019, Jackson Kayak also launched Orion Kennels, extending its expertise to intelligent, performance-oriented dog kennels designed for outdoor enthusiasts who share adventures with their pets. This further showcased the company’s commitment to serving a broad spectrum of outdoor lifestyle needs.
Company Overview
Headquarters and Facilities
Jackson Kayak Inc is headquartered at 3300 McMinnville Highway, Sparta, Tennessee. The facility operates as a hub for design, manufacturing, and recreational activities, reflecting the company’s dedication to quality and community engagement. The location is strategic, nestled near the renowned outdoor recreational areas of Tennessee, offering an ideal environment for product testing and innovation.
Company Size and Industry
Operating within the recreational facilities industry, Jackson Kayak employs between 201 to 500 staff members. The workforce is composed of skilled professionals committed to product development, customer support, marketing, and operations. Their expertise drives the company’s reputation as a leader in kayak manufacturing and outdoor recreation.
Specialties and Product Portfolio
Jackson Kayak specialises in a diverse range of products, including:
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Whitewater Kayaks: Designed for agility, durability, and high-performance in challenging river conditions.
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Fishing Kayaks: Stable and feature-rich craft tailored for anglers, offering comfort and utility.
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Recreational Kayaks: Accessible and user-friendly kayaks for casual paddlers and families.
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Coolers: Premium outdoor coolers under the Orion brand, engineered for durability and efficiency.
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Kennels: Outdoor kennels designed for adventure-ready dog owners, combining safety and durability.
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Fishing Boats: Platforms such as those from Blue Sky Boatworks, merging stability and innovation.
The Philosophy and Values Behind Jackson Kayak Inc
At the core of Jackson Kayak Inc lies a commitment to authenticity, inclusivity, and continuous improvement. The company embraces a welcoming approach that invites paddlers of all skill levels to engage with the sport and the outdoors. This customer-centric mindset is evident in every aspect of their product design and community involvement.
Jackson Kayak maintains close relationships with its customers and dealers, fostering a family-like atmosphere. This approach nurtures loyalty and supports innovation driven by real user feedback. By maintaining transparency and integrity, the company ensures that its products reflect a deep understanding of both adventure and adventurers themselves.
Leadership and Legacy
The driving force behind Jackson Kayak remains its founder, Eric “EJ” Jackson, who continues to influence product innovation and company direction. Alongside Eric, his family members have become integral to the company’s ongoing success. His children, Emily and Dane Jackson, hold pivotal roles—Emily oversees marketing strategies while Dane, a multiple-time world champion kayaker himself, contributes to design and performance enhancements.
This family-led leadership structure not only preserves the company’s heritage but also energises its future. The blend of professional expertise and personal passion creates a dynamic environment conducive to growth and innovation.
Commitment to Community and Environmental Responsibility
Jackson Kayak Inc is deeply involved in supporting paddling communities and environmental stewardship. Through sponsorship of world-class athletes, participation in educational initiatives, and engagement in conservation efforts, the company champions sustainable outdoor recreation.
Their sponsored teams, including champions such as Dane Jackson, highlight the brand’s competitive edge and dedication to excellence. Meanwhile, educational programs and community events foster participation and awareness, reinforcing the company’s mission to make paddlesports accessible and enjoyable.
Contact and Online Presence
For customers and enthusiasts seeking more information, Jackson Kayak maintains a robust online presence through its official website: https://jacksonkayak.com. The website offers detailed product information, dealer locations, instructional resources, and community engagement opportunities.
Interested parties can also contact the company directly via phone at 931-738-4800 for inquiries related to products, orders, or corporate information.
Conclusion
Jackson Kayak Inc stands as a beacon of innovation, quality, and community in the recreational kayaking industry. From its roots as a whitewater kayak manufacturer to its expansion into fishing craft, coolers, kennels, and propulsion technology, the company exemplifies the spirit of outdoor adventure “Outdoor To The Core.”
With a steadfast commitment to inclusivity, product excellence, and customer connection, Jackson Kayak Inc continues to shape the future of paddlesports, inspiring adventurers worldwide to explore nature’s waterways with confidence and passion.
