We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Benson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My inspiration for creating Wanderlust Hats brand was to focus on apparel for ocean minded individuals. Since my passion is in ocean conservation I knew I had to give back to the ocean as well. When I created the company I have dedicated a portion of every sale to coral outplanting in the Florida Keys with A non-profit called I.Care About Coral.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

All of our designs are hand drawn with an animation theme that supports our passion for the Ocean and all of its creatures. The inspiration came at the beginning of the covid pandemic, I was trying to find an ocean themed hat and there was no fun sea creature designs available. Once I decided to create my own, the brand was supported by everyone in the community and has since led to a lineup of products and passionate ocean artwork.

The challenges during the pandemic made the launching of my brand really difficult. With most companies operating on skeleton crews or not at all and supply chain issues it took time and patience to get all of the products up and going.

Professionally, I have worked in the dive industry as an Instructor and a Captain since 2016. Prior to this time I worked in a fast pace car industry and every vacation was spent scuna diving. This was a sign that I needed to change what I was doing day-to-day. I have never regretted it, and personally believe I have one of the best offices in the world. Through this lifestyle I try to share it with my apparel brand for all to enjoy and remember their experiences / passions.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

I live in Key West, and every day is spent on the water. We are truly lucky for the diverse aquatic life here in the Florida Keys. When we are not on the water it is typically time to swap stories over a few beers at our local pubs. Bearded Lady and 22 & Co. are the favorites here in town.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

Local small businesses that carry our products such as Sea, Key West, Key Dives, Conch Republic Divers, and Shrimp Rd. Surf Co.

We donate a portion of every sale to I.Care About Coral a local non-profit in Islamorada.

Website: Www.wanderlusthats.com

Instagram: Www.instagram.com/WanderlustHats

Facebook: Www.Facebook.com/WanderlustHats

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.