About Us
About Us
History
The Katchakid Original Net Pool Cover:
A Legacy of Safety and Innovation
Founded originally as a sporting goods and manufacturing company in 1959, the Esson family produced high-quality tennis rackets, soccer nets, and footballs for well-known brands for nearly a decade. The business took a transformative turn after a heart-wrenching tragedy struck a close-knit community.
During a family gathering, a devastating drowning incident involving the child of close friends occurred. Despite the presence of adults nearby, the silent danger of the swimming pool claimed a young life. Deeply impacted by the event and driven by his role as a father, Blair Esson, then President of Katchakid, Inc., committed himself to prevent such tragedies from recurring. His resolve led to the creation of the pioneering Katchakid net pool cover.
Blair Esson’s expertise in sports equipment manufacturing catalyzed the invention of the Katchakid net in 1972. This innovative pool safety barrier combined aesthetics with functionality, quickly setting the standard for child pool safety. Over the decades, the Katchakid net has evolved, continually praised for its effectiveness in preventing childhood drownings.
Remembering Blair Esson - Inventor of The Net Pool Cover
Blair Esson’s legacy extends beyond his innovative contributions to pool safety. His commitment to drowning prevention also saw him serve as an advisor to legislative drowning prevention committees and non-profit organizations focused on safety. The Esson family’s dedication to pool safety continues to be deeply personal and impactful, influencing statewide pool safety codes and standards through their ongoing service on the ASTM F15 technical subcommittee.
Today, Blair’s son, Brad Esson, upholds his father’s legacy as the Director of Operations at Katchakid, Inc. Blair’s grandchildren also contribute to the cause, spending their summers lifeguarding and advocating for pool safety.
Blair Esson passed away in 2024, but his vision and dedication live on through his family’s continued leadership and the lifesaving impact of the Katch a kid net. The Esson family remains steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that every pool is a safe place for children, echoing Blair’s lifelong mission to safeguard young lives.
Enhance Your Pool Safety
Learn more about enhancing pool safety from trusted organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Association of Pediatrics. Together, we can prevent tragedies and protect our communities, one pool at a time.
Schedule a Free Consultation
