The Hawaiian Lifeguard Collection is developed to be part of the uniform, “part of our tool chest,” said veteran Maui lifeguard and Waterman Hall of Famer Archie Kalepa.
Nearly four decades ago, veteran Maui lifeguard and Waterman Hall of Famer Archie Kalepa saw the legendary Eddie Aikau in action – feats of selfless courage so formative that Kalepa knew he’d someday join that brotherhood of elite Hawaiian life savers. “We perform unrecognized heroic acts every day,” said Kalepa with disarming humility. He and the 450-plus guards of the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association (HLA) each proudly wear OluKai footwear as they patrol the rocky cliffs and rip tide-ravaged shores of the islands.
The Hawaiian Lifeguard Collection is developed to be part of the uniform, “part of our tool chest,” said Kalepa. This is rugged footwear for rugged terrain – the day-to-day demands of the HLA have tested these shoes and sandals for the needs of a true waterman. Simply put: “It’s a shoe that works,” said Kalepa. He and the rest of the HLA put these shoes to the test far before they find their way to the shelves. From the fit and overall performance to breathability and traction, the HLA take these shoes through real field research – the actual gauntlet of lifeguarding.
“No matter what anyone says, if you put your mind to it, you can do it,” Kalepa told these Junior Guards. “I know it’s true because I did it. Stay focused, stay healthy, stay fit, and keep your integrity. Those are things that we need to build, not just lifeguards but great leaders in the community.”
Photos courtesy OluKai
