My name is Billy Enyart, and I am the founder of Idlewild, Limited. 

I've always loved the outdoors, and it seems that much of my recreation has always revolved around boats. I started a metal fabrication business over ten years ago, and have been working on high-end residential in Colorado ever since.

In 2019 I was floating down the Grand Canyon, drinking river-cold beer, and daydreaming about the different types of boats on the river. I was thinking through the advantages and disadvantages of each type of boat.

Inflatable rafts and catarafts have a huge carrying capacity, but require frequent air management. While being fairly durable, they can still rip on a sharp rock or have issues with valves. They also do an excellent job of acting as sails in high winds. Much of the body of the raft is really just the air inside the tubes, so this is wasted space that could be used better. 

Dorys have beautiful lines and excellent maneuverability. They have a decent carrying capacity, and some are self-bailing. They are, however, susceptible to being damaged on the rocks. The high sides also catch the wind. 

Kayaks are the most maneuverable and durable of anything on the river, but they are left wanting for cargo capacity. 

I wondered if there were a way to combine all of the best traits of these boats. Something with the durability of a kayak, the maneuverability of a dory, and the carrying capacity of a raft.... Something that would have a low enough profile to cut the wind... Something with a large, flat deck that would allow passengers easy access all around.... Something with integral storage.... Something that could be easily rigged for expedition trips, fishing trips, or hunting trips....

With that, the concept of the Nomad 17 was born. I had a journey in front of me. Design, engineering, feasibility studies, mold making, prototyping, and product testing. Mold modifications, fine tuning, and finally, fun on the water. 

Along with the boats, we began to develop complementary products. Dry boxes, Dutch ovens, sand stakes, and other gear. And so the brand of Idlewild was established. 

All of our product development and design work is geared towards enhancing your outdoor experience. The goal is to improve on existing products and create exceptional new products that solve real-world problems for folks that love the outdoors. 

I hope you enjoy using these products as much as I've enjoyed developing them!