Kelly Slater's Outerknown Steps Up for North Shore Flood Victims

Kelly Slater's surf brand, Outerknown, pledges up to $15,000 in sales to North Shore flood victims, joining other surf brands in providing aid after devastating storms.

Kelly Slater's Outerknown Steps Up for North Shore Flood Victims

In the wake of devastating floods that ravaged the Hawaiian Islands, surf brands are rallying to support affected communities. Outerknown, the surfwear brand co-founded by legendary surfer Kelly Slater, has pledged a significant donation to aid flood victims on the North Shore. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the surf industry to provide relief and assistance to those impacted by the recent Kona Low storm system.

Key Takeaways

  • Outerknown will donate 100% of its proceeds, up to $15,000 (excluding taxes and fees), for a single day to The Lāhui Foundation.
  • The Lāhui Foundation is actively involved in providing frontline support to flood victims on the North Shore and other affected Hawaiian islands.
  • Other surf brands, including Billabong and Quiksilver, have also contributed significantly through the Surf Brand Alliance.

Outerknown's Generous Pledge

Outerknown announced its commitment to donate all proceeds from a single day's sales, capped at $15,000 (excluding taxes and fees), to The Lāhui Foundation. This organization is on the ground, assisting families whose homes were destroyed or rendered unlivable by the severe weather. The brand expressed its admiration for the resilience and interconnectedness of the North Shore community, a vital part of surf culture.

Kelly Slater himself responded to inquiries about flood victims potentially receiving discounts, stating, "Message me. I’ll sort it out," indicating a personal commitment to helping those in need.

Surf Brand Alliance's Collective Effort

In addition to Outerknown's contribution, the Surf Brand Alliance, which includes prominent names like Billabong, Roxy, and Quiksilver, has also stepped up. This alliance distributed hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of clothing, footwear, and essential supplies to flood victims. Each affected individual was entitled to $500 worth of goods.

Mitch McEwen, brand manager for Hawaiian Island Creations, highlighted the importance of this support, noting that the North Shore is the "mecca of surfing" and many of those affected are part of their "ohana" (family). The initial goal for the Alliance's contribution was $100,000, but the total donations exceeded $300,000, with any remaining products to be sent to other impacted islands.

Community Support and Resilience

The response from the surf industry underscores a strong sense of community and a desire to give back to a region deeply intertwined with surf culture. The efforts aim to provide immediate relief and help rebuild lives and homes affected by the destructive storms. The generosity shown by Outerknown and the Surf Brand Alliance offers a beacon of hope for the North Shore community as they navigate the recovery process.

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