Origami Paddler Relaunches Under New Ownership

Originally founded by renowned kayak designer Tim Niemier, Origami Paddler gained early momentum through a highly successful Kickstarter campaign, introducing a rigid kayak system that folds into three transportable sections. But rising production costs, delayed materials, and COVID-19 pressures eventually pushed the company into receivership, leaving customers and vendors with unfulfilled orders and unpaid invoices.

In June 2023, former vendor, Trin and her husband JC, acquired the brand’s assets, exchanging outstanding debts for ownership in a move aimed at preventing the company from being liquidated.

“Our options were to watch Origami disappear or step in and try to bring it back,”
JC said in a video outlining the transition.

Since taking over, the new team has focused on restoring customer support and product functionality. Key updates include the launch of a redesigned Gen Two hinge system and the reopening of the online store, allowing existing paddlers to access spare parts and accessories for the first time in years.

Rather than rebranding, the company says it is taking a transparency-first approach.

“We’re not trying to hide the history. We want to earn trust back by doing things the right way.”
– Trin

With operations stabilizing, Origami Paddler says it is also exploring future design updates and potential new models, signaling a long-term commitment to re-entering the SUP and paddlesports market.