The inspirational and resilient "Soul Surfer" Bethany Hamilton has yet another accomplishment to add to her growing roster - sandal designer! The recent champion of the 2014 Surf-N-Sea Pipeline Women's Pro spent this past Saturday at Flip Flop Shops Universal Studios CityWalk officially launching her limited edition Bethany by Cobian Signature Sandal line. Alongside the Flip Flop Shops and Cobian teams, Bethany conducted fan meet-and-greets, signed autographs and took photos with several hundred eager fans.
Bethany also officially launched the "Win a Day with Bethany Hamilton" contest. To enter, visit the nearest Flip Flop Shops location, snap your picture with the life-size Bethany cut out, and post the pic to Instagram. Tag the picture with the hashtag #EveryStepMatters and your unique message of inspiration. Entries are being accepted through the end of April 2014 when Bethany will handpick the most inspiring entry. Bethany will announce the winner publically on May 16th through the Flip Flop Shops and Cobian Facebook Fan Pages.
"Bethany is an inspiring role model for many, and we are proud to partner with both her and Cobian to bring such a fashionable, feel-good sandal into our shops," said Brian Curin, the President and Co-founder of Flip Flop Shops (size 10).
"Bethany has created a sandal that really resonates with our customers, and it's going to be a huge hit at all of our Flip Flop Shops Locations," continued Darin Kraetsch, the CEO of Flip Flop Shops (size 10).
Available at Flip Flop Shops nationwide, a portion of the proceeds from every sandal sale goes towards the Friends of Bethany foundation, a foundation which supports shark attack survivors and traumatic amputees worldwide. The Bethany by Cobian Signature Sandal features a clear Visions Sole with messages of hope and inspiration, as well as photography of Bethany. Fashioned with a synthetic leather braided strap and made with synthetic leather squishy EVA top-sole material with anatomical arch support, the Bethany by Cobian sandals are both comfortable and cute. The limited edition flip flops are available in three fashionable colors; black, teal and pink, and come in both women's and children's sizes.
"I am asked a lot where I find my inspiration, and these sandals were inspired by - and created for - my fans; for anyone motivated to lead a happy, healthy and charitable lifestyle," said Bethany Hamilton, Cobian Ambassador. "It was a lot of fun working with Cobian to design the line, and I am super excited to collaborate with Flip Flop Shops on the #EveryStepMatters contest, and to have the chance to meet one of my inspirational fans."
For Flip Flop Shops locations and additional contest details, visit www.flipflopshops.com.
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the authentic retail chain exclusively devoted to the hottest brands and latest styles of flip flops and casual footwear. Its mission is to help people "Free Their Toes" and embrace the relaxing benefits of flip flops and casual footwear for a healthier, low stress lifestyle. In addition to being an Environmentally Responsible Retailer, one of the company's major initiatives is the Heart to Sole: Creating a Stress-Free America campaign, designed to reduce stress levels, improve heart health and support the American Heart Association.
The company began franchising in 2008 and now operates more than 100 shops globally with 150-plus in the worldwide development pipeline. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of the world's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill, Nike and OfficeZilla.com. Flip Flop Shops has been awarded the International Council of Shopping Centers' prestigious "Hot Retailer Award," and ranked eighth among franchise in the 2013 Inc. 500 | 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies. For more information visit www.flipflopshops.com.
About Cobian Footwear
Our mission is simple: provide our customers with the highest level of comfort available in the casual footwear market. By incorporating innovative ideas, high quality materials, and strict manufacturing standards, the Cobian brand continues to be set apart. Our footwear is durable enough to be worn at the beach, and stylish enough to be worn in the city. While remaining true to our surf roots, it is our desire to branch out into the ever-expanding fashion market, representing surf in the fashion world and fashion in the surf world. This is what gives Cobian our unique "Surftique" style. At the heart of the Cobian brand is a passion for people. It is this passion that motivates us to serve our customers and show love to the people around us.
Media Contact:
Amanda Foley
Duo PR, for Flip Flop Shops
206.706.0508
[email protected]
Franchise Ranking History
Franchise 500: #229 (2014), #230 (2013), #297 (2012), #415 (2011),
Fastest-Growing: #94 (2012),
Top New: #14 (2012), #41 (2011),
America's Top Global: #174 (2013)