It should come as no surprise that product innovators often don't make it, especially when you have the potential for companies with deep pockets, technology and distribution networks to enter a market with no barriers to entry. People call Burton evil, but the truth is, it's one of the last of the legendary brands to not change owners. I don't think there are any US board brands that fit that. Perhaps F2 and Nidecker in Europe but I don't know their lineage.