NAWILIWILI — Who knew a hacky sack falling in the water could spawn such a sport? When the toy that normally is used on land splashed into Hanalei Bay nearly three decades ago, it created a generation of “Water Rippers.”
“That was 28 years ago,” said Tim Leefeldt, developer of the water bag. “We found a hacky sack in the water made out of leather. That find prompted us to develop this toy, and we will always consider Hanalei the birthplace of the Water Ripper.”
Tim and his wife Darlene were on the island to re-visit the site that gave birth to the water toy, which has sold more than 30,000 units, including 200 from Hanalei Surf in 2013.
“Now, it’s amphibious,” Tim said. “When we come through here, we always want to update what’s taking place with the Water Ripper, and I can say, ‘you can play with it out of water as well as in the water — year ‘round.’ But it’s at its best in the water.”
Originally, Tim said the Water Ripper, the same size as a hacky sack, was distributed through the Hanalei Surf and the Magic Dragon, also in Hanalei.
The Pool Hut at the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club formerly had some for distribution, but after running into supply issues with it, and a competing item that was brought in to fill the void, the Water Ripper has returned to The Pool Hut, Tim said.
Travis Ware, Pool Hut supervisor, said he was glad to have stock and make the popular water product available from a more central location.
During this trip that ends today, Tim said he met a gentleman associated with the Kauai Ocean Recreational Experience, an organization that enables people with disabilities and physical challenges to enjoy the island’s ocean and surf.
“This is what the Water Ripper does best,” Tim said. “We plan to send them some to work with their programs as an adaptive use toy. We often donate to special needs groups and autistic groups.”
No matter which road the popular water toy takes, Tim said it will always be something that was born in Hanalei.
