‘ŌIWI for 25 YEARS

It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years since we started ‘Ōiwi Ocean Gear. From our first designs to where we are today, we’re grateful for everyone who has supported us along the way.

‘Ōiwi Ocean Gear began with Kawika Mahelona and David G. Kim, classmates in the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s Art Department. The brand was born out of long conversations about design, culture, language, and the need for a uniquely modern athletic brand from Hawai‘i. From the start, our vision was to create a brand that reflects modern Hawai‘i while staying true to traditions, practices, and ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i—always pushing forward in design and textiles without losing sight of where we come from.

Paddling became the natural starting point for our brand. Kawika paddled for Anuenue Canoe Club, alongside David’s wife Dede, and the sport embodies the passage of wa‘a knowledge from kūpuna to keiki. It felt right to set a standard of design and quality in that community—design with intention and integrity.

Our goal has always been to create designs that are respectful, thoughtful, and dynamic. Our design strives to be the best solution—defined by simplicity, functionality, and balance. Design is how we tell our stories of Hawai‘i.