PolyGlide Synthetic Ice Update | Shark Tank Season 8

Jim Loughran struggled with a common problem—every winter, the outdoor ice rinks he made for his kids would only last a few weeks. Looking for a better solution, he developed PolyGlide, a synthetic ice system made from polymer panels that can be used both indoors and outdoors, no matter the season. The system offers a smooth, weatherproof skating surface, allowing customers to design custom rinks that suit their needs and budget. Were the sharks interested in a deal? Let’s take a closer look at our PolyGlide update and pitch recap to find out.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of what happened to PolyGlide after Shark Tank.

Jim entered Shark Tank Season 8, seeking $150,000 for 20% equity in PolyGlide Synthetic Ice. After his presentation, he left without a deal as the sharks didn’t see a mass market potential for the product.

In terms of a PolyGlide update, the company expanded its product line beyond synthetic ice panels to include hockey training aids and curling rinks. PolyGlide has grown to around $1 million in annual revenue.

Shark	Result
Barbara Corcoran	No offer
Kevin O’Leary	No offer
Mark Cuban	No offer
Lori Greiner	No offer
Robert Herjavec	No offer

Shark Tank PolyGlide Synthetic Ice Pitch

• Entrepreneur: Jim Loughran
• Business: Synthetic ice for winter sports
• Ask: $150,000 for 20% equity
• Result: No Deal
• Sharks: None

Jim introduced his business, PolyGlide Synthetic Ice, and explained his need for an investment.

He aimed to grow the company and meet the rising demand for his innovative synthetic ice panels.

These panels provide a realistic alternative to traditional ice rinks.

They allow hockey players, figure skaters, and winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy the feel of real ice without needing cold weather or refrigeration.

The PolyGlide panels are designed to interlock, making them easy to install and requiring minimal maintenance.

The company sells the kits in different sizes through its website and Amazon, offering customization for both residential and commercial customers.

The product has broad appeal, from hockey players and skaters to families simply wanting a fun skating option at home.

A standout feature of PolyGlide is its self-lubricating Pro-Glide panels. These panels eliminate the need for extra lubricants and reduce upkeep.

This allows skaters to enjoy year-round skating, regardless of the weather. The panels are portable, affordable, and suitable for all skill levels.

During his pitch, a family demonstrated the product, playing a game of hockey on the synthetic ice.

Barbara Corcoran raised concerns about how many people would actually use it at home. She also pointed out potential hazards of a “garage rink,” such as broken windows.

Robert Herjavec added that he had seen similar products before, but Jim was quick to explain that PolyGlide is unique.

To further demonstrate, Robert laced up some skates and gave it a try.

Jim pointed out that no special skates were required, which only added to the product’s convenience.

When Lori Greiner asked about sales, Jim proudly shared that PolyGlide had made $1.3 million in the past three and a half years.

Further, he projected to hit $400,000 in sales during the year of filming. 

Mark Cuban then asked about the cost of the rink displayed on stage.

Jim explained that each panel costs $65.95.

Robert quickly calculated that the rink, made up of three racks of 24 panels, would cost about $4,200.

Some of the sharks raised concerns about the price. Jim clarified that most customers prefer smaller, more manageable setups for their homes rather than a massive rink.

Despite the presentation, a few of the sharks weren’t completely sold.

Mark felt Jim wasn’t selling the product with enough enthusiasm and decided to bow out.

Kevin O’Leary also passed, expressing doubts about scalability.

Lori opted out because she wasn’t convinced it had mass-market appeal.

Barbara commented on Jim’s energy level, saying it was too low for such a pitch, and she, too, stepped away.

Finally, Robert noted the presence of competitors in the market and didn’t see PolyGlide standing out enough. As a result, he declined to invest.

With no deal from any of the sharks, let’s get a PolyGlide update to see where the company is today.

Shark Tank PolyGlide Update

Our PolyGlide update found that despite not getting a Shark Tank deal, the company expanded its offerings beyond synthetic ice panels.

It now includes hockey training aids, curling rinks, and more.

PolyGlide’s synthetic ice panels are available on the company’s website, giving customers the flexibility to add panels and grow their rinks over time.

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. A set of four panels sells for $289 and has received tons of positive feedback from customers.

At the time of writing, our PolyGlide update found that the company has grown to around $1 million in annual revenue, a clear sign that Jim didn’t need a shark to find success.

That’s all for this PolyGlide update, but we’ll let you know if we hear anything new!

Curious about the other company updates from Shark Tank Season 8 Episode 11? Check them out here:

• Sealed by Santa Update
• Digiwrap Update
• Hand Out Gloves Update

Before you go, check out our Shark Tank Season 8 page for more updates.