Sharkbanz are magnetic shark deterrent bands for surfers, divers, swimmers, and beach-goers. Sharkbanz are an easy way to add peace of mind to the everyday ocean swim, surf, or snorkel, but make no mistake: the science is real. We enlisted the services of the renowned shark experts at SharkDefense Technologies. This group of scientists founded the organization 15 years ago, and created breakthroughs in a variety of shark deterrent technologies through their research and development.

Sharkbanz use special patented magnetic technology to deter sharks from attacking people. Most shark attacks occur in murky, shallow waters off the coast where there are a high number of swimmers and sharks sharing the same space. In this environment, sharks rely heavily on their electro-receptors instead of their eyes to “see” what’s around them. They possess the most sensitive electro-magnetic sense of all known animals, and use it to judge distance, shape, and even the heart rate of other animals near them. Most of the time, sharks get it right and leave people alone. Occasionally, they don't. Sometimes when relying on their electro-receptors, a curious shark may bite a person in order to figure out what he or she is. These unprovoked “hit and run” attacks are the most common type, and Sharkbanz are an excellent defense against them. As the shark approaches a person wearing Sharkbanz, magnetic waves coming from the band disrupt its electro-receptors and it quickly turns away. The experience for the shark is, “like a person suddenly shining a very bright light in your eyes in a dark room, and it's not pleasant”, according to Dr. Stroud. Once a shark comes near the band, it frequently leaves the area and does not return. To see video of some of our tests, click here.

Dr. Rice says that the effect of Sharkbanz is amplified if many people in a group of swimmers or surfers are wearing them. As more people choose to wear Sharkbanz, the more everyone’s risk is reduced. An approaching shark will be deterred sooner, keeping you, your friends, and sharks safe to enjoy another carefree day in the ocean.

It is important for us to be honest about what Sharkbanz technology can and can not do. Sharkbanz will reduce the risk of shark interactions but there is no 100% guarantee that interactions will not take place. This technology has been tested extensively on over ten of the most common predatory shark species (but it's not effective on Great Hammerhead) such as Bull and Blacktip, which are responsible for the majority of "hit and run" attacks, and Sharkbanz are an excellent defense against these types of attacks. Great Whites are unique in that they are the only shark that acts as an ambush predator, attacking from a long distance at high speed. There is no effective way to prevent this type of ambush attack. However, Great Whites rely heavily on their electromagnetic sense when swimming in open water, and Sharkbanz could effectively deter an investigating Great White.