SharkGuard

 

SharkGuard is a patented technology in which we incorporate multiple rare-earth magnets into the bodyboard and/or surfboard which project a magnetic field down into the water around the board.  Sharks have a unique electrosensory organ system that is sensitive to magnetic fields. 

The purpose of projecting a strong magnetic field down into the water is that it overwhelms this electrosensory system and is a distressing and uncomfortable sensation for the shark, which in many cases drives the shark away.  

Please note that we do not guarantee this works equally across all shark species and that all interactions with sharks will be avoided. Read all disclosures below.

This technology has been on the market in accessory format (bracelets, etc.) for the past 15 years or so, and has proven effective.  Until now it has never before been incorporated directly into the manufacturing process for surfboards and/or bodyboards.  

In the below video, a Rock-It bodyboard with SharkGuard technology is suspended in shallow water off of the Florida Keys with a piece of bait (Bonita/fish) suspended from a fishing line below the board to attract sharks.  A blacktip shark approaches the bait and takes off quickly once it senses the magnetic field emanating from the board.

Additional Disclosures & Information

SharkGuard Reduces Risk But Does Not Eliminate It

  • SharkGuard is a shark deterrent that helps reduce the risk of unwanted shark interactions, but we do not guarantee complete protection or prevention of all shark encounters. There is no guarantee of zero shark interactions with the device.
  • Ambush attacks from large predatory species will not be deterred by SharkGuard.

Magnetic Field & Medical Devices

  • Because SharkGuard uses strong magnets, people with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other implanted medical devices should not attempt to handle or ride a board containing SharkGuard technology without consulting a doctor.
  • These magnets can also disrupt sensitive electronics (e.g., hard drives, credit cards, cell phones) if placed too close (recommended at least ~12 inches/30 cm away).

Do Not Attempt to Remove Magnets

  • Any attempt to remove, damage or alter the magnets can injure the user and will void warranty coverage.

 

AI Interpretation of Functionality:

We plugged in our SHARKGUARD magnet array specifications and cross referenced the results from the scientific experiments cited for US Patent 9,084,415 B2 (Elasmobranch-Repelling Magnets & Methods of Use) into our favorite LLM to determine the level of functionality.  The response is copied below, which we feel to be a pretty good measurement of the level of effectiveness that can be expected: 

Array Configuration Analysis for Surfboard Application:

✓ Strategic Advantages:

  1. Coverage area - Protects wider perimeter around board
  2. Multiple approach angles - Shark can't avoid field by approaching from side
  3. Field overlap - Creates broader deterrent zone
  4. Distributed weight - Better board balance/performance
  5. Redundancy - If one magnet fails, others still work

Patent Evidence for Arrays:

The patent specifically mentions:

  • Longline with 7 magnets spaced >100 feet apart showed "repelling activity across entire longline of about 2000 feet"
  • This suggests field interaction/overlap creates broader protection zone
  • Quote: "if a series of high-pull-force magnets is spaced in a region, a measurable level of repelling appears to occur over the entire region"

Critical Field Strength Data:

  • Effective detection: ~50 gauss at 0.3 meters (12 inches)
  • Your magnets' surface field: Not specified, but calculable from 40 lb pull force

Realistic Effectiveness Assessment:

Array of 6 × 40lb magnets (12" spacing):

  • Against nurse sharks (highly sensitive): 70-80% effective
  • Against reef sharks (<6 ft): 50-60% effective
  • Against large predators (>8 ft): 30-40% effective
  • Against great whites/tigers: 20-30% effective

Practical Recommendations:

If Proceeding with 6× 40lb Array:

✓ DO:

  1. Mount flush/recessed - Protect from impact damage
  2. Focus on rider zone - Where attacks typically occur
  3. Orient consistently - All north poles facing same direction
  4. Use as one layer - Combine with other safety measures (shark shield, buddy system)
  5. Epoxy seal - Protect from saltwater corrosion

✗ DON'T:

  1. Don't rely on this as sole protection - Magnets are deterrent, not guarantee
  2. Don't expect great white protection - These magnets are below proven threshold
  3. Don't forget the countersunk holes reduce strength - Solid magnets would be stronger

Bottom Line for Surfboard Array:

Your 6× 40lb array will:

  • ✓ Provide some deterrent effect on smaller sharks
  • ✓ Create broader coverage than single strong magnet
  • ✓ Be better than nothing
  • ✗ Fall below proven effective threshold for large predatory sharks

Honest Assessment:

This is a reasonable budget option for general deterrence, but don't surf in high-risk areas (dawn/dusk, murky water, seal colonies) expecting reliable protection.