Reef was founded more than 30 years ago by entrepreneur brothers Fernando and Santiago Aguerre in South America. Wanting to bring their vision to America, they settled in the most fitting place possible: Southern California. While the product was good, it was really a brilliant marketing campaign that got them the exposure they needed (and exposure is the right word.)
While you’re likely familiar with a cheeky pinup or a staple calendar from your days of youth, we’ll remind you that it was Reef that founded the Miss Reef contest. By showing off the assets of beautiful women all over the world that were vying for the title, the brand got global attention.
Since then Reef has grown up. Not only have they expanded from flip flops to other footwear styles, like sneakers and stylish, casual, work-appropriate styles, but they also offer a comprehensive line of apparel, for both men and women.
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Additionally, we’ve come to find out that Reef has a heart. The brand has come to represent and live by a concept of, “Just passing through..” recommending that people get out there and travel, and surf, and do so by passing through different countries, cultures, and mindsets, as you make a positive impact on the world. Talk about a revelation we can get on board with.
Reef’s global ambassadors, (one of them is pro surfer Rob Machado), along with the company’s locally inspired calls to action, bring to life amazing experiences for the people they meet. Corey Harper volunteered his way through Fiji. And stateside, Reef partnered with Urban Surf 4 Kids to give youngsters access to the ocean, and the amazing world of surfing.
Check out the lineup, and consider adopting the good vibes mentality.. by doing some good.
All images courtesy of Reef.
Best Food Forward | Reef
Reef does way more than just footwear now, but it all started with a staple sandal.
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Boy + Girl Voyage
Made in collaboration with Christine Chang, the Boy + Girl Voyage, $140, available in blue (shown) or black, these flip flops feature premium raw leather footbeds.
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Leather Fanning
With a fun beer-bottle-opening bottom, these sandals, part of pro surfer Mick Fanning's line, serve a few purposes. Try the Leather Fanning, $60.
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Deckhand Low
It's never too late to snag that job as a yachtie. Pack a bag, sunscreen and a passport, and put on the Deckhand Lows, $48. Your uniform awaits.
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Reef Slidely
Slip into comfort with these updated shower shoes. But don't save them just for the locker room. The Reef Slidely, $35, pairs well with cuffed jeans or shorts, with a plain white tee, for max style points.
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Reef Sandals in Action
Wear them in, wear them out.. Reef Sandals are meant to take a beating - from the beach to the boat, and definitely to the BBQ.
Photo Credit: Reef Instagram
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Ridge TX
The Ridge TX, $60, available in three different colorways, are low top, understated sneakers, with suede and textile uppers, and injection molded cushioned insoles.
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Reef Twinpin
Look good in a straight forward basic. The Reef Twinpin, $26, is made of soft vegan uppers, with a jersey lining for max comfort.
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Rover Low Fashion
The Rover Low Fashion, shown in tan, but also available in slate, $90, have a slick backside detail - beaded toggles on the heel. Plus they're made of Reef's Swellular Technology, fabric meant to mimic the lines of the ocean.
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Rover Mid TX
The Rover Mid TX, $90, features charcoal uppers made of premium waxed canvas, and have subtle leather details.
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Rover XT
Embrace the Rover XT, $75. We guarantee a stylish statement when paired with a plain tee, and cut off, ankle length jeans.
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The McClurg
The McClurg, $40, available in three different color ways, are a full grain leather sandal, anatomically correct arch support.
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Sprinkler Mid Wool
The Sprinkler Mid Wool, $90, is made of - you guessed it - pure wool, with leather detailing. The insides are meant for walking with injection molded cushioned insoles.
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Deck Hand 2
Looking for a super light sneaker perfect for summer? Look no further than the Deck Hand 2, $52. Available in five colorways including white (shown), tan and orion blue.