Miss Rodeo Hawaii 2023

It was an unexpected honor when I was asked to build the chaps for Miss Rodeo Hawaii. She wanted to represent her state’s traditions and history, with tribal style tooling, a beaded flag, and a mokihana maile lei. Being an avid hunter, she also requested axis deer hide to be incorporated somehow. It was a wonderful challenge finding ways to turn her ideas into reality!

I’ve always been the type to overthink a lot about my designs, and there are hidden meanings woven into most of the details of these. Here’s a letter I included when I sent the chaps down that goes over some of my thought processes:

Hi Noel!

Thank you so much for entrusting me with building your chaps. I did my best to incorporate your dreams for them, and I hope they serve you well!

I wanted to tell you about some of the symbols and meanings that I used when designing these. I’ll start at the top, with the tribal tooling in the yokes. I researched the history of Hawaiian and Polynesian tattoos and settled on a few of the figures I found there. The turtle is thought to represent longevity and prosperity. The shark is a familial guardian and source of strength. The manta ray is energy and focus. The hook is good fortune and safe travels. For the geometric designs, I tried to combine a blend of island and traditional western themes - something I think you achieve on a personal level!

You requested a cross for the side shields because of your faith. I included more of the island/western geometric stamping on there, to represent a hope that your future riding and ag experiences will always bring you closer to God.

I loved that you wanted to include axis hides in your chaps! As a fellow hunter, to me they represent self-sufficiency, determination, and a sense of wildness.

The beaded Hawaiian flag on the back belt is a tribute to your home state, and the mokihana maile lei is a nod to your home island. Kauai is such a beautiful place, and filled with beautiful souls.

I used white leather on the accents and leg wraps. White is often used to symbolize purity and clarity. It’s my hope that it will remind you to always ride with clear and pure intentions, despite all of the muddiness and distractions life can bring.

Finally, you might notice the outrigger canoe paddle resting right above your boots. I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother, Kalani. I included his initials on the paddle, and placed it above your boots as a reminder that his memory walks with you every step of the way.

Thank you again for letting me build these for you! I wish you the best of luck with the NFR, with the remainder of your time as Miss Rodeo Hawaii, and with whatever the future holds beyond that!

Stay wild, stay true, stay western.

-Nikki Warren
Double Diamond Customs