A new name in the world of stand-up paddleboarding is turning heads — and turning waste into performance. Grow Blanks, based in Kenya, is reimagining what a paddleboard can be, replacing flimsy inflatables with sustainable, handcrafted boards built from the agave plant. The result: durable, lightweight SUPs that deliver stability, flow, and a natural ride feel — all while supporting local communities and reducing waste.
Founded in 2021, Grow Blanks Ltd is pioneering the eco-friendly surf and paddleboard industry by offering handmade boards crafted entirely from agave. Each board is shaped in Kenya by skilled artisans who hollow, shape, glass, and seal every piece. The natural properties of agave give these boards unique shock absorption and flex, resulting in a smoother, steadier ride—even in choppy conditions.
Models & Sizes
Grow Blanks currently offers three core designs, tailored to different paddlers:
9’4” Cruiser – Ideal for slimmer builds and medium-sized paddlers ($1,200 incl. fins)
9’6” Cruiser XL – A wider, bulkier design for paddlers 90kg+ ($1,300 incl. fins)
8’6” Wave – Surf-inspired shape for wave riders ($1,350 incl. carbon fins)
Boards weigh just 10–12 kg, matching standard plastic boards in portability while outperforming inflatables in feel and longevity. Riders can further customize their boards with eco-conscious deck pads made from upcycled flip-flops or cork.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Grow Blanks is about more than boards—it’s about shaping a movement. By using locally sourced materials and supporting skilled craftsmanship, the company is creating new value chains in Kenya, generating employment and empowering communities. Waste byproducts are repurposed into products like biochar, soil amendments, and mushrooms, promoting a circular economy while reducing environmental impact.
Every board is made to order, with custom builds available for paddlers seeking unique shapes or specific performance. Customers can also test the boards at Salty’s on the Creek in Kilifi, gliding through mangrove forests where sustainability meets adventure.
A Vision for the Future of Paddleboarding
With a combination of performance, durability, and sustainability, Grow Blanks is proving that the future of paddleboarding doesn’t lie in plastics or inflatables—but in riding light on the planet while staying strong on the water. Through innovation and community-focused craftsmanship, Grow Blanks is helping surfers and paddlers worldwide ride with purpose, shaping a greener future one board at a time.










