Best known for its flip-flops, OluKai is launching a new boot in collaboration with Hawaii native and master bladesmith Neil Kamimura.
Inspired by Kamimura’s generational connection to blacksmithing, this collaborative boot, called the Pāhi, is made of premium pull-up leather and is saturated with dense waxes and oils that will develop a multi-tonal patina with wear.
“Having worked with Neil for many years, we’ve always been inspired by his unabashed approach to making unique, highest-of-quality products that tell a story,” Kerry Kondrady, chief marketing officer at Olukai, said in a statement. “The Pahi is designed to be timeless, built to take on hard work, while being clean and stylish. We are very proud of the finished product.”
Kamimura gained international notoriety after winning the History Channel’s hit competition show “Forged in Fire.” Today, when he isn’t restoring vintage motorcycles, Kamimura is crafting some of the most globally sought-after knives and swords by celebrities and collectors alike, the company noted
“This partnership with OluKai feels like an extension of my craft,’’ Kamimura added. “There is a lot of intention behind the design of the Pāhi, and it highlights the very things I am passionate about when I build my own blades. In my workshop, I’m on my feet for long stretches and need work boots that will support me all day long and withstand the elements. Pāhi wraps up all of my needs in or out of the workshop into one impeccably crafted boot.”
The OluKai x Neil Kamimura Pāhi, which retails for $300, will be available for early access on Oct. 20, and available sitewide on Oct. 22 at OluKai.com, and in select Boot Barn and OluKai retail stores.
This collaboration follows Olukai’s tie up with the “New Heights With Jason and Travis Kelce” podcast to offer a fresh version of Jason’s favorite sandal in June.
Indeed, the Mea Ola Nu‘u style was reinterpreted for this collaboration through a football-inspired design lens, made with full-grain leathers referencing vintage pigskins and classic helmets while decorative stitching and other details recall traditional football lacing and paneling.
In April, OluKai tapped into island culture and the nostalgia of comfort food through a flip-flop collaboration with Spam. Centered OluKai’s bestselling ‘Ohana sandal, the OluKai x Spam Collection featured two styles, one inspired by Spam musubi — a popular snack in Hawaii, where more Spam products are consumed per capita than any other state in the U.S. — and the other inspired by the recognizable can containing the meat product.
