Kai Lenny is leaving Naish after 16 years; where to next for the superstar of stand up paddling?

Let the speculation begin…

Superstar @kai_lenny turned a slow news week upside down by announcing his departure from lifetime sponsor Naish earlier today. What's his next move? Starting his own brand, perhaps? Flying solo? Starring in a foil-themed Hollywood remake of Point Break alongside Keanu Reeves? Our speculation is as good as yours. One thing we can be certain of is that Kai Lenny has elevated our humble little sport of SUP more than anyone else over the years, and for that we say thanks, mate, and good luck on your new journey wherever it may lead… (photo credit: @frankiebees)

A post shared by SUP Racer (Christopher Parker) (@supracer) on Jan 1, 2018 at 4:14pm PST

And here’s Kai’s announcement from a few hours ago:

Words cannot begin to express the amount of gratitude I have towards Robby Naish and his company Naish for the incredible support I have experienced over the past 16 years. Naish was my first major sponsor and has been with me through thick and thin, the good times and the bad, as well as being there throughout my journey of fulfilling childhood dreams of becoming a world champion athlete. It is with a heavy heart that I will no longer be a team rider for Naish. This has been one of the toughest decisions I have had to make thus far in my career, but I am excited for the road ahead as I stay committed to becoming the best athlete and person I can be. 🏄⚡️💯 @naishsup @naishsails @naish_kiteboarding @naishfoiling @michisilence @robbynaishus1111

A post shared by Kai Lenny (@kai_lenny) on Jan 1, 2018 at 9:21am PST

We’ll update this story when we learn more