Stohlquist has reportedly ceased all operations, after nearly 50 years, following its purchase by “investment banking firm” Barings. According to Paddling Magazine, Stohlquist’s parent company Aqualung Group was officially acquired in January 2024.
“With any acquisition there are going to be changes,” Stohlquist senior product manager, Ryan Lightbody told Paddling Magazine. The outlet noted that the move follows a series of “top-level” personnel changes among management over the past five years. “You don’t necessarily think they are going to shut you down.”
The news – which will supposedly also affect “other” Aqualung brands – follows a December 2023 Barings press release confirming the purchase.
Founded in 1977 by its namesake, Jim Stohlquist, the company made paddle-sport equipment such as personal floatation devices, as well as paddling and kayak fishing equipment. France’s Aqualung manufactured diving gear prior to aligning with Stohlquist in 2004.
