Jason Zawadzki — Founder, Craftsman, Waterman, and Community Builder

Jason Zawadzki is more than the founder of Hydrus—he’s the heart and soul behind every board, every innovation, and every connection made through the Hydrus community. A seasoned paddler with decades of on-the-water experience, Jason began paddleboarding long before Hydrus officially launched in 2012. From peaceful rivers to Class III and IV rapids, ocean swells, and surf breaks, to countless hours spent fishing—trolling for fish, bowfishing, fly fishing, and drifting with a tenkara rod—his time on the water has shaped a deep understanding of board design, construction, performance, and what paddlers truly need.

Hydrus was born from a garage, a dream, and a commitment to do things differently. Jason and his brother Nick started the company with a shared vision: create exceptional gear and support the paddleboarding community with unmatched dedication. From those humble beginnings (kids running around the workshop and all), the mission hasn’t changed—Hydrus is here to help, to innovate, and to grow the sport with integrity.

Jason is not your typical entrepreneur. Every Hydrus board is a reflection of his craftsmanship, attention to detail, and hard-won knowledge. These aren’t mass-produced products—they’re tools for adventure, fitness, and fun, crafted to last and perform in any condition. Whether you're paddling a calm lake or braving coastal currents, you’ll feel the difference.

But what truly sets Jason apart is his people-first approach. He believes in building real relationships—with customers, with the community, and with the Hydrus team. He’s known to spend time personally helping riders find their perfect board, and yes, he’ll actually pick up the phone if you call. That level of care and connection has helped shape a loyal, engaged community that continues to grow.

After the heartbreaking loss of his brother and co-founder, Jason stepped away briefly to heal. But his deep commitment to the Hydrus family and to honoring Nick’s legacy brought him back stronger. That resilience, compassion, and drive are the foundation of everything Hydrus represents today.

Jason’s life is rooted in values: craftsmanship, community, and family. At home, he's a dedicated father of five and a loving, committed partner, building a life grounded in trust, teamwork, and mutual support. He brings that same sense of purpose into Hydrus, where those values define the company culture. It's not just about selling boards—it’s about building a movement that connects people to water, wellness, and each other.

As Hydrus continues to evolve, Jason remains at the helm—exploring new materials, pushing boundaries in design, and deepening the brand’s connection to its customers. For Jason, this isn’t just business. It’s a lifelong passion, a creative pursuit, and a way to make a difference—one paddle stroke at a time.