Meet Rudy Mage | Owner

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

Hi Rudy, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The journey to start Chimu was fueled by a combination of personal passion and a need I saw in the market. As someone who values fitness and cultural expression, I wanted to create something that merged these two worlds. Chimu Active Shorts were born out of the idea that activewear doesn’t have to be purely functional—it can also tell a story. I wanted to design athletic gear that not only performs well but also reflects the rich heritage and vibrant artistry of the Peruvian culture. My thought process was to bring something fresh and meaningful to the activewear industry, offering products that inspire pride and an active lifestyle.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At Chimu, we understand that your active wear is more than just a piece of fabric; it’s an extension of your adventurous spirit and your connection to the ocean. That’s why we meticulously design each pair of shorts with the utmost care, using premium materials and expert craftsmanship to ensure the highest quality.

Drawing inspiration from the Chimu civilization’s deep connection with the sea, our shorts feature vibrant patterns, bold colors, and intricate designs that pay homage to their rich cultural heritage. We take pride in incorporating elements from the ancient Chimu artwork and symbols, infusing each pair of shorts with a sense of timeless elegance and authenticity.

Not only do Chimu multi purpose shorts stand out for their unique style, but they also prioritize functionality and comfort. Our active wear shorts are made with quick-drying, lightweight fabrics that provide ultimate freedom of movement, allowing you to ride the waves with ease. The thoughtful design includes elastic waistbands, adjustable drawstrings, and strategically placed pockets, ensuring convenience both in and out of the water.

We are committed to sustainability and ethical practices, which is why our shorts are proudly made in Peru. By supporting local artisans and partnering with eco-conscious manufacturers, we ensure that each pair of Chimu Shorts is produced with the utmost respect for the environment and the communities involved.

Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, a casual beachgoer, or simply someone who appreciates quality swimwear with a rich cultural backstory, Chimu all purpose shorts is the perfect choice.
Getting to where we are today wasn’t easy. Like any business, we faced our share of challenges—from finding the right manufacturing partners who shared our vision, to breaking into a competitive market with a product that’s both unique and authentic. The biggest challenge was ensuring that we stayed true to our roots while also appealing to a global audience.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of persistence and adaptability. The road to success is rarely straightforward, but staying flexible and being willing to learn from setbacks has been key to our growth.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them to check out our CHIMU store in Allapattah, our print location INKED PRO, and show them around the area. We have a Gallery called Rated ART connected to our CHIMU store. I would take them to Wynwood and show them the culture and great restaurants. Next would be to check out my good friends 004 Connec and DADE WEAR. Then swing by Grand Opening Gallery and Toe JAM backlot. Lastly we would grab lunch at House of Mac then head out to Joes Stone Crab for dinner.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shout-out my business partner Aaron and designer Ocean who have been instrumental in bringing Chimu Active Shorts to life. I want to recognize my family and close friends offering unwavering support and encouragement. They’ve believed in my vision even when it was just an idea. Finally, anyone reading this article. I appreciate your interest in getting to know a me and the brand. I hope my story motivates someone to pursue entrepreneurship and never give up on dreams.

Website: https://www.chimudynasty.com

Instagram: @chimudynasty

Twitter: @rudymage

Facebook: @chimu