Shark Rashaun and founder of Duzter on Shark Tank Season 16- Image source- @sharktankabc
People love playing hockey, a super fun sport. However, the sport comes with a risk of severe injuries. Duzter Hockey, founded by Martin E, provides a safe solution for the sport.
Duzter Hockey provides protective compression undergarments designed to shield players from cuts and impact injuries during play.
Will the sharks help Martin E. and Martin A. make their venture a successful hit?
About Duzter
| Category | Details |
| Founder (Plural if multiple) | Martin E. Negron |
| Product Type | Protective undergarments |
| Funding (Pre-Shark Tank) | Self-Funded |
| Investment Asked | $200,000 |
| Equity Offered | 10% |
What Happened on the Shark Tank Episode?
A father-and-son duo presented a fun, drama-filled pitch on Shark Tank Season 16. They start by highlighting the popularity of the fun yet dangerous sport of hockey, where players move on sharp, knife-like blades attached to their shoes. They talk about the risks involved in the sport and then bring up the market gap for protective gear for young players.
The entrepreneurs then present samples for the sharks to examine. They provide both upper and bottom pieces for the sharks to test.
During their pitch, they invited guest Shark Rashaun Williams to participate in a demonstration showcasing the effectiveness of their protective gear. They ask the shark to cut a basic pool noodle with a skate blade to show that, in place of the pool noodle, it could be an arm—demonstrating the risk involved. Rashaun cuts it easily. Then, they bring up a pool noodle placed inside their apparel and ask the shark to try cutting it again. After trying with all his power, he fails to cut through it.
Daymond asks what kind of weave is used for the product. Dad Martin tells him that he has a background in engineering.
He explains that their material is polymer-based and does not change when washed, heated, or put in the dryer—unlike other products made of Kevlar, which do not sustain well in heat and humidity.
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What Makes Duzter Unique?
Duzter Hockey makes protective undergarments with cut-resistant fabric for young hockey players, offering added protection to critical areas like the neck and arms without compromising comfort or mobility.
The pants provide protection around the ankles and thighs, allowing players to move freely.
All Duzter Hockey products are Level A5 certified. They are made with strong Polymer material.
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Did Duzter Get a Deal on Shark Tank?
Kevin asks if Duzter has sold any products. Martin A explains that their lifetime sales are around $326,000 over two years.
The sharks then ask if they sell directly to consumers. The duo explains that they sell both direct-to-consumer and through pro shops. The manufacturing cost for a youth shirt is $26, and it retails for $85.
Despite believing the business is a great initiative, Daymond, Lori, and Kevin decide not to make an offer.
Rashaun liked it, especially because it reminded him of his young son. He has a 5-year-old son who reminds him of himself. He relates to the father-son duo but admits he is not very familiar with the sport, so he chooses not to invest.
Mark, however, offers the full amount for 20% equity, with no room for a counteroffer. The Duzter founders happily welcome him to the family, securing the deal.
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What Happened to Duzter After Shark Tank?
Following their ‘Shark Tank’ appearance, Duzter Hockey experienced increased engagement on social media platforms, reflecting a heightened interest in their safety-focused products. After being on Shark Tank, many people went to their website. Also, Shark Tank posted about them, which helped more people see Duzter.
Where Can You Buy It?
Check out Duzter’s website to get amazing products that keep you safe and secure while playing your favorite game, hockey. Also, visit their Instagram handle for regular updates.
Quick Summary
- Duzter, a father-son venture, pitched their protective undergarments designed to prevent hockey injuries to the Sharks.
- They demonstrated the product’s effectiveness and revealed their sales, seeking $200,000 for 10% equity.
- Mark Cuban offered, and they accepted, a deal for $200,000 in exchange for 20% of their company.
