There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the iconic Kool-Aid Man bursting through walls with an enthusiastic “Oh yeah!” It’s a childhood image that takes us back to the simpler days of the 90s, where bright colors and fun characters ruled. Fast forward to today, and we’re bringing that same spirit into the surf world with our Kook-Aid Tee.
At First Light Surf Club, we know that surfing is all about having fun, but sometimes we take ourselves too seriously. Whether it's trying to rip every wave or worrying about our style, there’s a tendency in the surf community to judge harshly—ourselves included. And that’s where the Kook-Aid concept was born.
What’s a “Kook” Anyway?
In surfing terms, a “kook” is someone who might not be the most skilled surfer, or who has a less-than-polished style. The term has been popularized by accounts such as Kook of the Day and Kook Slams. Those are extreme examples, but more common examples are maybe you miss a wave, wipe out in a ridiculous way, or trip over your own leash. We’ve all seen it, and if we’re honest, we’ve all been there too. That’s right—there’s a little bit of “kook” in all of us.
Laugh It Off, Keep It Fun
The Kook-Aid Tee is a playful reminder to not take things too seriously. In life—and in surfing—we’re going to make mistakes. You can't rip every wave after all. But instead of getting down about it, we’re here to say: embrace it. Laugh at yourself, enjoy the ride, and keep having fun. That’s the true essence of surfing.
Just like the Kool-Aid Man burst through walls with no hesitation, confidence, and a smile, you should hit the waves with the same energy. Maybe you’ll be ripping; maybe you’ll have a total kook moment—but who cares? Surfing is about freedom, joy, and connecting with the ocean, not about perfection.
Nostalgia Meets Surf
The design of the Kook-Aid Tee taps into that 90s nostalgia we all love. It’s a shoutout to those carefree days when life was all about having fun, drinking colorful, sugary drinks, and letting your imagination run wild. And in the surf world, that’s a mindset we should carry with us every time we paddle out.
With our take on the classic Kool-Aid Man—surfboard in hand and ready to hit the waves—we’re making a playful nod to both surfing culture and the fun we all experienced growing up. We’re also acknowledging that not every wave will be perfect. Sometimes, you just have to sip the Kook-Aid, accept the kooky moments, and move on with a smile.
Sip the Kook-Aid
At First Light Surf Club, we believe in the power of fun and community. Surfing isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection—with the ocean, with each other, and with ourselves. The Kook-Aid Tee embodies that spirit of not taking life too seriously. So, throw on the tee, grab your board, and head out for a dawn patrol surf. Next time you wipe out, just laugh, look around, and remember that we all have a little bit of kook in us.
Oh yeah!
