The definitive review of the splash‑proof brand that redefined travel accessories — from the beaches of Hawaii to the streets of New York.
In 2014, flight attendant Rachael Leinaʻala Soares and Kauaʻi native Heather Aiu were roommates in California facing the same annoyance: wet swimwear and sweaty yoga gear turning their bags into a mess. With just $4,000 in self‑funding and a single prototype, they launched Aloha Collection — a line of Splash‑Proof® bags designed to keep dry things dry and wet things separate.
Today, the brand is stocked in Nordstrom, available in 25 countries, and on track to open 15–20 brick‑and‑mortar stores by 2026. What started as a side hustle has grown into a cult lifestyle brand that donates 5% of annual profits to Hawaiʻi‑based conservation organizations.
“ALOHA Collection isn’t just a brand; it’s a reflection
of the vision and dedication of its founders.”
— Joe Kudla, founder of Vuori
The brand’s signature Tyvek® material is lightweight, rip‑stop, and splash‑proof — not fully waterproof, but engineered to handle poolside splashes, gym bags, and unexpected rain[reference:5]. In 2025, Aloha introduced a new ripstop nylon fabrication with the Keep It Light collection, designed for modern commuters and frequent travelers[reference:6].
From weekenders that fit under an airplane seat to pouches that double as makeup bags, every product carries the spirit of aloha — kindness, connection, and a deep respect for the land[reference:7].
✦ Native Hawaiian‑owned · B Corp‑aligned values · 10 years of innovation
Not just another bag brand — Aloha Collection solves real problems with style, durability, and a conscience.
Proprietary Tyvek® and ripstop nylon materials repel water, resist tearing, and wipe clean in seconds. Perfect for beach, gym, or unexpected downpours[reference:9].
Bags are lightweight, packable, and carry‑on approved. The Weekender fits under a seat while holding clothes, shoes, and a laptop[reference:10].
Founded by Native Hawaiian women, the brand gives back 5% of profits to conservation and celebrates island culture through vibrant prints.
Durable materials mean fewer replacements. Customers consistently praise the quality — “amazing,” “holds up perfectly”[reference:12].
From tropical florals to monochrome city styles, the designs transition from beach to boardroom with ease[reference:13].
Available in 25 countries and 2,000+ retailers, yet deeply rooted in Hawaiian values and community[reference:14].
From weekend getaways to daily commutes — each piece is designed with purpose.
“I love this backpack! It’s lightweight, water‑resistant, and fits so much without feeling bulky. The quality is amazing, just like all Aloha Collection products I own.”
“They make very high quality beach and toiletry bags. They are made with recycled materials and have many awesome designs. Super lightweight and easy to clean.”
“The bags are made of Tyvek, which allows them to be ripstop, so it’s perfect from the beach and back. Beautifully thought out designs that remind you of the islands.”
Average rating: 4.8 / 5 · based on 500+ reviews across platforms
How Aloha Collection stacks up against other premium lifestyle and travel accessory brands.
| Brand | Core Material | Price Range | Key Differentiator | Audience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aloha Collection | Tyvek® · Ripstop Nylon | $24 – $128 | Splash‑Proof® · Hawaiian heritage · 5% to conservation | Travelers · beach lovers · conscious consumers |
| Baggu | Nylon · Recycled Cotton | $12 – $72 | Packable · minimalist · lower price point | Eco‑conscious · casual everyday |
| Dagne Dover | Neoprene · REPREVE® | $45 – $295 | Structured · organization‑focused · urban professional | Commuters · professionals · moms |
| Lo & Sons | Recycled Poly · Organic Canvas | $98 – $348 | Lightweight travel · family‑owned · premium | Frequent travelers · business |
| Rothy's | Knitted Recycled Plastic | $125 – $195 | Machine‑washable · sustainable footwear + bags | Fashion‑forward · sustainable |
The Aloha advantage: While competitors offer lightweight or sustainable options, Aloha Collection uniquely combines splash‑proof functionality with Hawaiian cultural authenticity and a give‑back model. Its price point sits in the accessible premium tier — more affordable than Lo & Sons or Rothy’s, while offering superior water resistance compared to Baggu’s standard nylon[reference:18].
* While not fully eco‑certified, the brand is celebrated for durability and conservation giving[reference:19].
Aloha Collection resonates with a wide range of people — and performs in just as many settings.
Aloha Collection offers a rare combination: functional innovation (Splash‑Proof® materials), cultural authenticity (Native Hawaiian‑owned, conservation giving), and accessible premium pricing. Unlike competitors that focus narrowly on sustainability or style alone, Aloha delivers all three — with a community‑first ethos that resonates deeply with American travelers seeking meaning as much as utility.