Dakine Universal Pickup Pad

Dakine has defined the tailgate pad category since 2005. When it came time to redesign their flagship pickup pad, the challenge wasn't starting from scratch — it was evolving a proven product for a truck market that had fundamentally changed.

The Challenge:
Modern pickups had outgrown the original tailgate pad design. Deeper curves, integrated cameras, oversized beds, and tonneau cover systems meant older pads simply didn't fit the way they used to.

• No universal solution for the full range of modern tailgate geometries
• Removable camera and handle covers had become a standard truck feature with no good pad solution
• Product needed to evolve while staying true to Dakine's surf and bike roots

The Solution:
I designed a universal pad geometry that fits all modern tailgate configurations, borrowing material and construction directly from Dakine's iconic surf traction pad line to solve the bike separation problem.

• EVA foam bike-separation panels pulled from Dakine's surf traction pad construction
• PE board insert maintains structure across deep-curved and oversized tailgates
• Removable camera/handle cover panel with dedicated storage pocket
• Spring-loaded cam lock cinch straps for tool-free secure fit on any gate

The Result:
The Universal Pickup Pad launched as a flagship in the Dakine bike lineup, connecting the brand's surf heritage to a new generation of truck-owning riders.

• Universal fit across all modern pickup tailgate designs
• Tonneau cover and truck shell compatible — a first for the category
• Small accommodates 5 bikes / Large accommodates 7

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