The Kainui is Dakine's thicker everyday leash, and it has the most Amazon ratings of any leash in this group, with over 400. This version comes with Dakine's Easy Clip, a quick release you pull to free yourself from the leash.
This review covers how the Kainui holds up, where owners say Dakine has slipped and how it compares with pricier leashes.
What It Is: A Thicker Leash for Bigger Days
The Kainui uses a 1/4 inch (6.5mm) urethane cord, which Dakine calls Dura-Cord. Dakine rates it for surf up to a couple of feet overhead.
You get a 1.5 inch molded neoprene ankle cuff with Dakine's Posi-Lock hook and loop closure. Dakine also uses what it calls Opti-Flex leash ends for durability.
In the Water: The Pick Among Dakine Fans
Owners who stick with Dakine often choose the Kainui. One surfer always buys the Kainui 1/4 inch because they found Dakine's lower end leashes break. Another said the Kainui and Dakine's big wave Pe'ahi are solid.
Some Dakine fans report a very long record. One surfer has used Dakine leashes for 20 years, and another said all their Dakine leashes are still going strong. One owner likes the thicker cuff.
Where It Excels
The Kainui shines for surfers who want a thick, affordable leash for everyday and slightly overhead surf. It costs less than most leashes in this group.
Owners also report that Dakine honors its warranty. Several surfers said Dakine replaced a broken leash.
Where It Falls Short
The hook and loop strap is the most common complaint about Dakine leashes. One surfer said theirs comes off while duck diving. Another had a strap fail 3 times in 4 months, and one owner said the strap is thin.
Heavy surf has broken some Kainuis. One surfer snapped two Kainui 6 foot leashes with the thicker 5/16 inch cord while diving through closeouts on a 45 liter board. Another owner's Kainui broke after 11 months in 6 to 7 foot surf.
One surfer warned that a Dakine leash stretched and snapped back, hitting them in the temple. That can happen with any leash under heavy strain.
The "Has Dakine Gotten Worse?" Question
You'll find this question in most Dakine threads. One surfer said quality dropped after the company changed owners. That is one owner's view, and other surfers still report Dakine leashes lasting for many years.
Here's the take from owners: the Kainui is the Dakine leash to buy if you want one, because owners report more problems with Dakine's cheaper models. Check the strap often, and use the warranty if it fails.
Pro tip: Don't wrap the leash tightly around your fins when you store the board. Owners say it nicks the cord.
Who Should Buy It
Buy the Dakine Kainui if you want a thick leash at a lower price for surf up to a couple of feet overhead.
Look elsewhere if you have had Dakine straps fail before, or if you want the strongest long term owner reports.
Alternatives
The Creatures of Leisure Reliance Pro 6 Leash costs more, and one owner said theirs outlasted their Dakine leashes by years. Read our full Creatures of Leisure Reliance Pro 6 Leash review.
The XM Regular Premium Leash is handmade in California with replacement parts available. Read our full XM Regular Premium Leash review.
Verdict
The Dakine Kainui is a thick, affordable leash that many Dakine fans trust for everyday surf. The hook and loop strap is a weak point, and a few owners broke one in heavy surf. If you want a solid leash for less money, it is a fair pick.