8 Black-Owned Marine and Outdoor Businesses to Support

Supporting Black-owned businesses helps promote diversity and sustainability within industries, especially in the marine and outdoor sectors, which often face barriers to entry for minority entrepreneurs. These businesses offer unique products and services that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, boaters, anglers, and adventurers alike. Whether you’re shopping for quality gear, booking an outdoor experience, or looking for innovative marine products, here are eight Black-owned marine and outdoor businesses you should know about.

1. Black Girls Surf

Products & Services: Surf Lessons and Training

Price Range: $75 – $300 per lesson/session

Black Girls Surf was founded by Rhonda Harper with a mission to empower women of African descent in surfing, a sport traditionally dominated by other demographics. Based in San Diego, the organization offers surf lessons and training for girls and women who want to learn the sport and potentially compete at higher levels. Whether you’re looking to experience surfing for the first time or want to train for competitive events, Black Girls Surf provides personalized coaching.

Specs:

  • Focus on surf training and mentorship for young Black girls.
  • Offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced surf lessons.
  • Collaborative community support and workshops.

Why Support:

Supporting Black Girls Surf helps increase diversity in water sports and provides a platform for aspiring athletes to grow in a space that traditionally lacks representation.

2. Mahi Marine

Products & Services: Boat Repair and Maintenance

Price Range: $100 – $500 for standard repairs

Mahi Marine, owned by Anthony Shorter, is based in Miami and specializes in boat repair, detailing, and marine maintenance services. The business caters to recreational and commercial boat owners, offering top-notch services to keep vessels in peak condition. Whether you need hull repair, engine diagnostics, or detailed cleaning, Mahi Marine ensures that your boat is well-maintained for your next outing.

Specs:

  • Offers hull, engine, and electrical repairs.
  • Specializes in detailing and routine maintenance for all types of vessels.
  • Experienced with both recreational and commercial boats.

Why Support:

By supporting Mahi Marine, you’re ensuring expert service from a dedicated team while contributing to diversity within the marine repair industry.

3. Toya Outdoors

Products & Services: Outdoor Apparel and Gear

Price Range: $30 – $150 for apparel and accessories

Toya Outdoors, founded by Latoya Hebron, is an outdoor lifestyle brand that offers high-quality apparel and gear for adventurers. The company’s product line includes jackets, hats, and gear specifically designed for hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Their durable, stylish designs reflect an appreciation for nature and are built to withstand all kinds of weather conditions.

Specs:

  • Hiking jackets, hats, and backpacks designed for rugged conditions.
  • Products made from sustainable materials.
  • Available in various sizes and colors, promoting inclusivity.

Why Support:

Toya Outdoors is committed to promoting diversity in the outdoor space by offering inclusive designs that cater to a diverse customer base, making it easier for people of color to enjoy nature in style.

4. We Dream in Color

Products & Services: Eco-Friendly Jewelry

Price Range: $50 – $500 for handcrafted pieces

We Dream in Color, founded by jewelry designer Jade Gedeon, offers eco-friendly and unique pieces inspired by the beauty of nature. While not directly marine or outdoor gear, the jewelry is a great choice for adventurers who appreciate hand-crafted designs that echo the essence of the natural world. With bold, vibrant colors and environmentally friendly materials, their jewelry complements any outdoor outfit.

Specs:

  • Handcrafted from eco-friendly materials.
  • Nature-inspired designs such as leaves, vines, and water motifs.
  • Available in a variety of metals and colors.

Why Support:

We Dream in Color supports sustainability in fashion and showcases the beauty of nature through its eco-conscious products.

5. Brown Girl Surf

Products & Services: Surf Training and Community Outreach

Price Range: $50 – $200 per lesson

Founded by Natasha Brown, Brown Girl Surf is a non-profit organization that offers surf lessons and community building for women of color. The organization promotes a sense of empowerment through surfing and water-based experiences. Their lessons take place in California and are designed for all skill levels, ensuring that participants build confidence in the water.

Specs:

  • Group and individual surf lessons available.
  • Focus on building community and environmental stewardship.
  • Surf programs tailored for women and girls of color.

Why Support:

Brown Girl Surf creates a welcoming space for women and girls of color in the surfing community, while also promoting environmental conservation.

6. Urban American Outdoors TV

Products & Services: Outdoor Television Show

Price Range: Free to watch; subscription-based memberships available for behind-the-scenes content

Urban American Outdoors TV is the first Black-owned outdoor show in the U.S., founded by Wayne Hubbard and Candice Price. The show explores a wide range of outdoor activities, from fishing and hunting to hiking and conservation. It highlights the stories and experiences of diverse outdoor adventurers and works to increase representation in media related to the outdoors.

Specs:

  • Show covers fishing, hunting, and environmental conservation.
  • Available to stream online for free, with subscription content for enthusiasts.
  • Highlights diverse outdoor experiences.

Why Support:

Supporting Urban American Outdoors TV promotes representation in outdoor media and encourages more diverse narratives within the industry.

7. Soul River, Inc.

Products & Services: Fly Fishing Expeditions and Conservation Efforts

Price Range: $500 – $2,000 per expedition

Soul River, Inc., founded by Chad Brown, organizes outdoor expeditions for veterans and inner-city youth, combining fly fishing with environmental education and conservation. Based in Portland, Oregon, the organization aims to foster healing and growth for participants while also protecting the environment.

Specs:

  • Fly fishing expeditions led by experts.
  • Programs focused on youth education and veteran healing.
  • Combines outdoor adventure with environmental stewardship.

Why Support:

Soul River, Inc. makes the outdoors accessible to underserved communities while promoting environmental conservation and healing through nature.

8. Eppic Clothing

Products & Services: Outdoor Apparel for Men and Women

Price Range: $20 – $100 for shirts, hoodies, and caps

Eppic Clothing, created by Kareem Washington, offers outdoor and lifestyle apparel with a focus on adventure and exploration. The brand’s line of durable clothing includes everything from graphic tees to hoodies and hats, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want comfortable, stylish gear for their adventures.

Specs:

  • Outdoor apparel designed for adventurers.
  • Hoodies, t-shirts, and caps available in various designs.
  • High-quality fabrics built for durability.

Why Support:

Eppic Clothing blends style and functionality, offering adventure-ready apparel while supporting Black entrepreneurship in the outdoor space.


Final Thoughts

Supporting Black-owned marine and outdoor businesses not only helps foster diversity and inclusion within these industries but also promotes unique perspectives and high-quality products. Whether you’re in need of professional boat services, outdoor apparel, or adventurous experiences, these businesses offer something for everyone. When you support these businesses, you contribute to the growth of a more inclusive outdoor community.

Happy Boating!

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Read 8 Sailboat Maintenance Tips: How to Maintain Your Sailboat until we meet in the next article. 

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