Iconic Brands: A retrospective

Hawaiian Airlines holds a special place in the heart of Hawaii’s aviation history. Since its founding in 1929, it has grown from a small inter-island carrier into one of the most respected airlines in the world. The airline’s rich history parallels Hawaii’s own story of growth and connection, helping to bridge the islands while bringing the beauty and culture of Hawaii to the world. The Early Days: Inter-Island Airways Hawaiian Airlines began its life as Inter-Island Airways, founded on January 30, 1929. The first flights took off later that year in November, offering air service between Oahu and Maui, and Oahu and the Big Island. Operating with a fleet of Sikorsky S-38 amphibious aircraft, the airline became the first to provide scheduled air service between the Hawaiian Islands. While the planes of that era were slow by modern standards, they represented a breakthrough in travel for Hawaiians. Before Inter-Island Airways, getting between islands meant a long and sometimes rough journey by boat. The new air service significantly cut down travel time, opening up new opportunities for business, tourism, and family connections across the islands. World War II and a New Era of Flight During World War II, Inter-Island Airways became a crucial player in military transport across the Pacific, moving personnel and equipment between the islands. In 1941, the airline officially rebranded as Hawaiian Airlines, reflecting its deeper role in the archipelago’s transportation network. The post-war period brought rapid changes to aviation. Hawaiian Airlines introduced its first DC-3 aircraft in the late 1940s, offering larger capacity and more comfortable flights. This set the stage for the airline’s expansion in the decades to come, as more tourists began flocking to the islands, eager to experience Hawaii’s unique blend of natural beauty and culture. The Jet Age: Opening Hawaii to the World The 1960s marked the arrival of the jet age, and Hawaiian Airlines was quick to adapt. The airline added jets to its fleet in 1966, which revolutionized inter-island travel and enabled faster, more efficient service. The introduction of jetliners also helped Hawaiian Airlines begin its international journey, connecting the islands to the broader Pacific and beyond. With its new fleet, Hawaiian Airlines expanded its reach beyond the islands, first serving West Coast destinations in the United States. As air travel became more affordable and accessible, Hawaiian Airlines became an essential carrier for tourists seeking the ultimate vacation destination in Hawaii. Over time, the airline added routes to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and other key international markets. A Modern Icon: Service and Aloha Spirit In the 2000s, Hawaiian Airlines further modernized its fleet and operations, investing in new Airbus and Boeing aircraft. The airline became renowned not just for its efficiency but for embodying the aloha spirit in its service. Hawaiian Airlines developed a reputation for providing warm hospitality, with touches of Hawaiian culture in its inflight meals, entertainment, and customer service. As the airline celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2019, it stood as a symbol of resilience and tradition, having weathered global crises, financial challenges, and the rapidly evolving aviation industry. Today, Hawaiian Airlines is recognized for its excellent on-time performance and continues to be Hawaii’s largest and longest-serving airline, offering over 250 daily flights. Honoring the Legacy with Malibu Shirts At Malibu Shirts, we honor the incredible history of Hawaiian Airlines with our collection of vintage-inspired designs that capture the essence of mid-century travel to the islands. From vintage maps to retro logo designs, our apparel transports you back to a time when air travel to Hawaii was an adventure in itself. Check out our Hawaiian Airlines collection at MalibuShirts.com and celebrate the legacy of this iconic airline that helped shape the way the world experiences Hawaii.

Surfing’s rich history is filled with legends, but few names resonate as deeply as Dale Velzy. Known as the man who helped shape not just surfboards, but the culture of surfing itself, Velzy’s influence extends far beyond the waters of Southern California and Hawaii. He wasn’t just a craftsman; he was an innovator, a pioneer, and a surfer who truly lived the lifestyle that he helped bring to the world stage.The Early Days: From Craftsmanship to IconBorn in 1927 in Southern California, Velzy grew up near the ocean, and by his early teens, he was already shaping surfboards. His father was a woodworker, and this exposure to craftsmanship laid the foundation for Velzy’s future career. By the 1940s, surfing was still a niche sport, but Velzy recognized its potential. He spent his early years shaping and improving the heavy, cumbersome boards that surfers were using at the time.Velzy’s big breakthrough came in the late 1940s when he opened the world’s first retail surf shop in Manhattan Beach, California. It was here that Velzy began experimenting with new designs and materials, eventually transitioning from solid wood boards to hollow, lighter balsa wood models. His attention to detail and innovative spirit earned him a loyal following among surfers, and his reputation quickly spread up and down the coast.Velzy’s Impact on Surfboard DesignOne of Velzy’s key innovations was refining the shaping process to make boards faster, lighter, and more maneuverable. He introduced a more sculpted, hydrodynamic shape that allowed surfers to carve the waves with greater control and style. His most famous designs, like the *Pig* model, had a significant impact on how surfers rode waves, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the sport.Velzy also pioneered the use of fiberglass in surfboard construction. By using fiberglass over balsa wood, he created boards that were not only lighter but also more durable. This was a game-changer in the 1950s and set the standard for modern surfboard manufacturing. His boards weren’t just equipment; they were works of art, designed to maximize performance while embodying the aesthetic of surfing’s free-spirited lifestyle.A Legendary Legacy: From California to HawaiiWhile Velzy made his mark in California, his influence extended across the Pacific to Hawaii, the birthplace of modern surfing. His boards became highly sought after by Hawaiian surfers, and his designs helped to elevate the sport’s status during its golden era in the 1950s and 60s. Velzy also sponsored some of the earliest surf competitions, which further helped establish surfing as a mainstream sport and culture.However, Velzy was not just a businessman; he was a true surfer at heart. He spent much of his life in the water, and his deep connection to the ocean informed every aspect of his board designs. Velzy’s passion for surfing influenced generations of shapers, surfers, and the entire industry. A Larger-Than-Life FigureVelzy was more than just a craftsman—he was known for his larger-than-life personality. Often seen with his signature cowboy hat and a mischievous grin, he embodied the rebellious, independent spirit of early surf culture. His surf shops became community hubs where surfers would hang out, share stories, and of course, order custom boards. Velzy’s charisma and deep knowledge of surfing made him a mentor to many young surfers and shapers who followed in his footsteps. Financial Woes and a Lasting InfluenceDespite his success, Velzy faced financial challenges. In the late 1950s, due to issues with taxes, he lost his business, but his influence on the surf world never waned. He continued to shape boards throughout his life and remained a respected figure in the surfing community. His later years saw a resurgence in interest in his early designs, as surfers sought out the retro, hand-shaped boards that Velzy had pioneered decades earlier.Velzy passed away in 2005, but his legacy endures. Today, Dale Velzy is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of surfing. His contributions to surfboard design, his passion for the sport, and his indomitable spirit continue to inspire surfers around the world.Malibu Shirts and Dale Velzy: Celebrating the HeritageAt Malibu Shirts, we celebrate the legends like Dale Velzy who shaped the rich history of surfing. Our vintage-inspired designs pay homage to icons from the golden age of surf culture. Whether you're a lifelong surfer or just appreciate the heritage, you can wear a piece of that history by checking out our collections.

When we think of beloved TV characters, few are as uniquely memorable as Gumby, the charming green clay figure with his trusty sidekick, Pokey. Created in the 1950s by Art Clokey, Gumby has entertained generations of fans with his bendy adventures, stop-motion magic, and wholesome, imaginative stories. But did you know that Gumby has a special connection to Hawaii? Hawaii has long been a source of inspiration for creative minds, and Art Clokey was no exception. Clokey had a deep affinity for the islands, often visiting for relaxation and inspiration. The lush landscapes, cultural richness, and slower-paced life provided the perfect environment for creativity. It’s said that the serene beaches and vivid colors of Hawaii had a profound influence on his work, subtly weaving their way into the whimsical worlds he built for Gumby. One particularly notable moment of Gumby’s island connection came in 1988 with the release of Gumby: The Movie, which includes scenes that highlight the vibrant, tropical aesthetic reminiscent of Hawaii. Though Gumby’s world is mostly a fantastical place, it’s easy to see how the spirit of aloha influenced the creative flow behind the scenes. The island vibes—whether through colorful settings or laid-back attitudes—are subtly present in the heart of Gumby’s adventures. At Malibu Shirts, we love celebrating cultural icons like Gumby, who continue to capture the imaginations of young and old alike. Our vintage-style apparel pays homage to characters and eras that resonate with fans across generations. Whether you’re a Gumby fan from back in the day or you’ve introduced him to your kids, you can keep that nostalgic charm alive with our exclusive retro designs. Check out our vintage collections, where you’ll find a bit of Hawaii, a touch of nostalgia, and a whole lot of heart—just like Gumby himself. 🌺

For any true fan of motorsports in Hawaii, the name Hawaii Raceway Park sparks memories of roaring engines, the smell of burning rubber, and adrenaline-pumping speed. Opened in 1962, this iconic venue played a central role in Hawaii’s racing culture for over four decades, offering a home for drag racing, stock car racing, and even motorcycle events. Enthusiasts from across the islands gathered to witness epic duels on the quarter-mile drag strip or the thrilling dirt track races. Located in Kapolei, Oahu, Hawaii Raceway Park wasn’t just a racetrack—it was a community hub. From its humble beginnings with small gatherings of local racers to hosting large-scale national events, this track evolved into a landmark of motorsports excellence. Notable drivers, both local and national, would test their mettle on its asphalt, with unforgettable moments of victory forever etched in the memories of fans. Events like the “Outlaw King of the Road” and “100 MPH Straight Fun Car” races are still fondly remembered by those who attended. Sadly, Hawaii Raceway Park closed its doors in 2006, a loss deeply felt by the racing community. Yet, its legacy endures. From vintage photographs of sprint cars kicking up dirt to the nostalgic race flyers that remind us of simpler, adrenaline-fueled times, Hawaii Raceway Park continues to be celebrated today. At Malibu Shirts, we’re passionate about preserving the rich history of locations like this. With our line of vintage-inspired apparel, you can keep the spirit of Hawaii Raceway Park alive. Explore our collections that celebrate the golden era of motorsports in Hawaii. Because sometimes, history is best worn.