At PrusaLab, we love projects born from real-life needs. And that’s exactly the case with MIRNIX HOCKEY – a startup that set out to solve the sweaty, smelly problem of drying hockey gear. During our Demo Day, we proudly unveiled the result of months of work within the PrusaLab Hardware Accelerator: The Hooking – a smart, compact hanger designed to help hockey players dry and organize their gear more efficiently.
From Idea to Market-Ready Product
Founders Matěj Raiter and Tomáš Mulač knew that drying hockey equipment is a never-ending battle. Poor air circulation, bad smells, bacteria, and a general lack of space – every player has been there. So they decided to create a compact, durable, and ergonomic hanger that could tackle the issue head-on.
Their idea earned a spot in the PrusaLab Hardware Accelerator, which meant one thing: an intense, hands-on development journey involving rapid prototyping, rigorous testing, and strategic planning to turn a great idea into a successful product – and a sustainable business.
“Here in Europe – and in the Czech Republic especially – we have to give people the confidence to realize that: ‘You can just make things!'”
So, What Happened During the Acceleration?
At PrusaLab, startups get more than access to a cutting-edge makerspace. We offer real, hands-on support with key aspects of product development and market entry. For MIRNIX HOCKEY, we focused on three core areas:
1. Developing Plastic Parts with 3D Printing
Building a physical product is always a challenge – especially when it involves lightweight yet tough plastic components that can support an entire set of hockey gear and still be easy to store. Prusa 3D printers and filaments played a starring role, enabling rapid prototyping and design optimization for maximum durability and functionality.
2. Packaging as Part of the Product
Another key focus was packaging. MIRNIX HOCKEY collaborated with Unipap, one of our trusted suppliers, to rethink how packaging could double as a display solution.
The result? A cardboard insert that not only protects the product in transit but also turns into a handy stand for in-store presentation – no need for extra marketing materials. A win for both retail and event sales.
3. Mentorship & Strategy
Knowing how to make a product is just the beginning. It’s just as crucial to figure out how to get it to the right customers, fund future growth, and protect your product’s unique features. That’s why MIRNIX HOCKEY received in-depth mentoring in these key areas:
- Financial planning with Jiří Vízek
- Business strategy with Jaroslav Trojan
- Logistics with DHL Express
- Intellectual property with MACHU IP Patent Office
- Marketing strategy with Bob Tetiva
And the industrial design? That’s thanks to Jakub Stedina – two-time Red Dot Design Award winner – who helped shape the final look and feel of the hanger. (He’s also the mastermind behind another PrusaLab-accelerated product: the smart handbag IRMA.)
MIRNIX HOCKEY at Demo Day: First Units Ready for the Ice
After months of hard work, the big moment arrived. At PrusaLab Demo Day, journalists and investors got the first peek (and feel!) of The Hooking in its FIRST100 limited edition. The reactions? Pure excitement.
What’s Next?
The hockey hanger is ready for launch, and MIRNIX HOCKEY is gearing up to get it into the hands of players everywhere – from weekend warriors to pro athletes. Thanks to PrusaLab, they now have the tools, network, and know-how to scale up and skate ahead.
Curious about other startups growing with PrusaLab’s help? Follow our blog or apply for the next round of our Hardware Accelerator. Who knows – maybe your project will be the next big thing Josef Průša puts his stamp on.
👉 Learn more about the PrusaLab Hardware Accelerator 👈
