For generations, Australian parents have asked the same question as they watch their children paddle beyond the break: How can surfing be made safer? Now, a new product entering the Australian market is aiming to become part of that conversation. Rock-It Surf Australia has launched SHARKGUARD, a range of surfboards and bodyboards featuring integrated magnetic shark deterrent technology permanently built into the board itself. The company says the product is the first commercially available surfboard range of its kind.
Unlike wearable shark deterrent devices, SHARKGUARD requires no batteries, charging, activation or maintenance. The system operates continuously while the board is in the water, with magnets embedded directly into the board during manufacture. According to the company, the magnetic field is designed to interfere with the electroreceptors sharks use to navigate and locate prey. The launch comes as shark safety continues to be a topic of discussion among Australian surfers, families and beachgoers, particularly those introducing children to the ocean.
What is SHARKGUARD?
SHARKGUARD is a line of soft-top surfboards and bodyboards that incorporate a magnetic shark deterrent system directly into the foam construction. This is not an add-on accessory or a wearable device; the technology is embedded during the manufacturing process and becomes a permanent part of the board. The company describes it as the world’s first surfboard and bodyboard range with integrated magnetic shark deterrent technology.
The boards are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, from small children’s boards to longboards for adults. The range also includes what the company calls the world’s first bodyboard with integrated magnetic shark deterrent technology. Each board features a high-contrast striped underside, reflecting research that suggests specific visual patterns may discourage shark approaches.
What stands out
Integrated, maintenance-free technology
The magnetic deterrent system is built into the board during manufacture, meaning there are no batteries to charge, no switches to flip, and no devices to lose. It works passively every time the board enters the water. This simplicity is a major advantage over wearable deterrents that require regular charging and maintenance.
Dual-layer protection approach
SHARKGUARD combines magnetic technology with a high-contrast zebra-stripe underside. Research suggests that certain visual patterns may discourage shark approaches, providing a second layer of potential deterrence. This dual approach gives users more confidence without adding complexity.
Designed for the whole family
The range includes boards for children, beginners, and experienced surfers. The smaller boards are designed to be easy to paddle and carry, very buoyant, and extremely maneuverable. Larger boards offer high volume and stability, making them ideal for surf schools and recreational beach users.
No performance compromise
The company states that the embedded magnets do not affect how the board performs. The boards are built as high-volume foamies, beginner boards, and performance shapes, all designed for Australian waves. The technology adds a layer of protection without altering the surfing experience.
Who it’s for
SHARKGUARD boards are primarily designed for beginner surfers, recreational beach users, surf schools, and families. Parents introducing their children to the ocean will appreciate the added peace of mind. Surf schools can equip their fleets with boards that offer an extra precautionary measure. Even experienced surfers looking for a fun soft top for small summer days can benefit from the integrated deterrent technology.
The range also appeals to anyone who wants a low-maintenance safety solution. Because the system requires no charging or activation, it is ideal for those who want a set-and-forget approach to shark safety. The boards are also suitable for rental programs and surf shops that want to offer customers an added layer of confidence.
Pricing and availability
SHARKGUARD boards are available nationally through Rock-It Surf Australia’s website and select retailers. The range includes models such as the 4’10” Chonk, 5’6″ Alberto, 6′ RUBIX, 8′ Joyrider, 8′ Surf School, 9′ Surf School, 9′ The Boardwalk, and 10′ The Unit. Accessories such as fins and leashes are also available. For wholesale pricing and custom orders, contact the company directly.
What makes it worth considering
The SHARKGUARD range fills a gap between doing nothing and investing in wearable deterrent devices. Founder Nick Naylor explains, “We’re not claiming this eliminates risk, because no product can honestly make that promise. What we’re saying is that if there is a way to add a layer of protection to a surfboard without affecting how it performs, why wouldn’t you?” This pragmatic approach resonates with many ocean-loving Australians.
The technology is backed by testing footage available online, including demonstrations with bull sharks. While no product can guarantee safety, the integrated magnetic system offers a passive, always-on precaution that requires no effort from the user. The high-contrast underside pattern adds an additional visual deterrent, making the boards a thoughtful choice for families and surf schools.
Verdict
SHARKGUARD boards offer a practical, maintenance-free way to add a layer of shark deterrent technology directly into a surfboard. While no product can eliminate risk, the integrated magnetic system provides peace of mind for families and beginners without compromising performance. It is a sensible precaution for anyone who spends time in the ocean.
Frequently asked questions
Magnets embedded in the board create a magnetic field that interferes with sharks' electroreceptors, potentially discouraging them from approaching.
No, the system is passive and requires no batteries, charging, or user activation. It works continuously while the board is in the water.
No, the company states it is a precautionary layer, not a guarantee. It is designed to reduce risk, not eliminate it.
The range includes surfboards for children and adults, as well as a bodyboard. All feature the integrated deterrent technology.
Yes, the boards are primarily designed for beginner surfers, recreational beach users, surf schools, and families.
Yes, research suggests high-contrast striped undersides may discourage shark approaches, adding a second layer of visual deterrence.
SHARKGUARD boards are available nationally through Rock-It Surf Australia's website and select retailers.
