Makoa Collection

The Makoa pattern was created in homage to kūkini, the elite runners and athletes of old, often tasked with carrying vital messages, gathering supplies, or summoning warriors on behalf of aliʻi, Hawaiʻi’s chiefs.

The design draws from the moʻolelo of Makoa, whose speed is commemorated in the ʻōlelo noʻeau, “He pōkiʻi nō Makoa,” said of someone who moves with great swiftness. Pōkiʻi translates to younger sibling or cousin, often used as a term of endearment.

Makoa was sent from Kawaihae to Waiākea to retrieve fresh ʻamaʻama for Kamehameha. What would take an ordinary man four days, Makoa completed before the sun stood high, returning with the fish still alive.

The repeated ʻohe kāpala patterning across this garment is inspired by the ʻamaʻama he carried. The wearer, in turn, embodies Makoa — carrying the fish, the story, and the message forward.

Today, we carry different things - Responsibility, Pressure, Purpose.

What do you carry?

The Makoa collection is created in collaboration with designer and ʻohe kāpala artist Keola Cayabyab.