Hawaii is one of greatest tourist destination, bringing in millions of visitors every year. Being notorious for its incredible beaches, many are apt to carelessly jump into the beautiful blue waves of the ocean. Unfortunately this fun is sometimes disrupted by serious and life-threatening situations. Luckily, we have lifeguards to save us. These brave men and women in red are the ones to jump after us in danger and to bring us to safety.
Having to be quick responders means being able to run, and to run fast so as to reach those in need. Most might imagine lifeguards kicking up sand either barefoot or in flimsy flip-flops, but in Hawaii this is not the case.
The Necessity of Comfort
On the job, lifeguards are required to wear durable shoes that can take on the terrains of the beach, this includes more than just sand. Lifeguards sometimes have to step over the sharp, pointed volcanic rock that inhabits the island. Having a shoe that can withstand these harsh conditions, lifeguards are provided comfort when saving lives. I imagine that not having to endure the pain of thousands of sharp, pointy rocks would get me places much quicker.
Olukai Fixes This
The Hawaiian Lifeguard Association trusts OluKai, a footwear company, to fulfill the necessity of comfort for their lifeguards. The OluKai Ālapa Lī’s, a combination of a water shoe and sneaker, is a lifeguard’s go-to shoe. The high-quality design provides them the ability to travel quick on any surface, and to swim freely without water filling the shoe which may affect their ability to swim. OluKai is proud of the superior design for its shoes, changing the lives of lifeguards by providing quality comfort. OluKai states:
“Every product we make must offer style, durability, and comfort from heel to toe. We pay close attention to every element of design, starting with the use of custom-made lasts and anatomical footbeds to ensure superior fit. Premium materials are carefully selected to be beautiful, durable, and soft against your skin. Handcrafted details honor island culture with authentic artwork.”
Below, this short documentary explains the true necessity behind a lifeguard’s comfort. Both on and off the job, lifeguard’s are constantly on the move, training themselves to be their strongest and fastest.
Saving lives definitely isn’t easy, and I’m sure that wearing uncomfortable shoes on painful terrain certainly doesn’t help. It’s a relief to know that a company such as Olukai is taking away that burden for its Hawaiian lifeguards.
Thinking of the beach now? Be weary of where you go. This article explains some of the most dangerous beaches that tourists should avoid.
