About Us
About Strongarm Hawaiians
Early Beginnings - 1999 to 2016
Established in 1999 on the streets of Nānākuli, Hawaiʻi, Strongarm Hawaiians was born from one young father's determination to build a lasting legacy while creating a better future for his family.
With the help from longtime friend, Jay Yano, Kawika learned the ins and outs of silk screen printing and brought his ideas to life. From that relationship, Kawika Pelletier, started Strong Arm Athletics.
Early designs were punchy and most taboo in a way. Strongarm has always been unafraid to make a statement. With a name like "Strong Arm," there were many who tested the intentions and integrity of the brand. Through humility, loyalty, and hard work, the brand has built a reputation of its own.
New Era - 2017 to Present
Through the years, Strongarm has evolved, though keeping that same edginess, to stand strong for the causes and lifestyle of Hawaiians. Many designs are inspired from Kawika's experiences growing up and living as a Hawaiian in Hawaiʻi -often incorporating manaʻo passed from his ʻohana. A graduate of Pearl City High School who grew up with his family in homesteads across Hawaiʻi -spending summers with family in Nānākuli, Makaha, Papakōlea, and Kalapana.
In search for a talented artist, Kawika met Braddon Varde. Impressed with his creativity and skill, the two became business partners and ushered in the new era of Strongarm -establishing Strong Arm Unlimited LLC.
Slowly local trends changed from cotton t-shirts to polyester sublimation. With Brad's artistry and Kawika's ideation, the possibilities became endless with sublimation. Most notable designs include Pele, Hāloa, and Kamapuaʻa.
With the help of Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, advocate, and leader, Kumu Hina Wong, the brand has been growing in the spaces and places of aloha ʻāina. She has helped to grow the legitimacy and authenticity of the brand. We are grateful for her friendship.
About the Brand
We're a locally owned and operated brand based in Honolulu, creating original apparel that celebrates the people, places, stories, and culture that make our islands home. Every design is created with purpose—whether it's honoring our communities, remembering those we've lost, supporting local causes, or showcasing the strength and resilience of our lāhui.
Our apparel is more than clothing. It's a way to express where you're from, what you stand for, and the pride you carry every day. From our signature sublimated shirts to limited-edition collections and custom projects, we focus on quality craftsmanship, bold artwork, and designs that connect with our community.
Beyond our retail collections, we also create custom apparel for sports teams, schools, businesses, memorials, family events, and organizations throughout Hawaiʻi. Every project is designed with original artwork to help bring your vision to life.
At Strongarm Hawaiians, we believe in supporting local, giving back to our community, and creating products that people are proud to wear. Mahalo to every customer who has supported us over the years. Because of you, we're able to continue doing what we love—creating apparel that represents Hawaiʻi with strength, pride, and aloha.
Strongarm Hawaiians — Built for the people. Inspired by Hawaiʻi. Worn with pride.
Shop Address:
1024 Kikowaena Pl. Suite A
Honolulu, HI
Shop Hours:
Monday | 10am - 5pm
Tuesday | 10am - 3pm
Wednesday | 10am - 5pm
Thursday | CLOSED
Friday | 10am - 5pm
Saturday | CLOSED
Sunday | CLOSED