About Cool Fish
Our Story
Since its inception in 2017, Cool Fish Apparel has been the leading purveyor of sporty, casual, and comfortable clothing for the Panhandle lifestyle. Owner Andrew Whited created Cool Fish Apparel as a hobby while working out of the seafood market he owned with his brother Chris. We believe that a successful business is built on offering outstanding products at fair prices with quality customer service and we pride ourselves in world-class customer service and a convenient shopping experience.
The Mahi Logo
The Mahi-Mahi is one of the most beautiful and delicious fish that you can catch in the Gulf. Our logo represents the way of life here on the Panhandle: our beautiful emerald beaches, mixed culture and our love of music and of course - fishing! Chris owned a charter boat named Perfect Shot and would bring in big catches to sell. Deckhands would point to the Mahi and always remark “Cool fish!”.
Our Product
Cool Fish Apparel is the leader in keeping you cool and comfortable in true Panhandle fashion, selling hats, t-shirts, shorts, shirts, and pullovers for men and women. Our materials are antimicrobial and designed to keep you cool for any activity. The colors and designs are reflections of the coastal lifestyle and appeal to anyone looking for both comfort and style.
STORY BEHIND THE BRAND
Meet Andrew
Born in Pensacola, Florida, in 1977, Andrew spent the first decade of his life traveling Europe with his father for his work with the Air Force until he was assigned to the Eglin Air Force base in 1987. During their time traveling they visited his favorite place, St. Andrews, Scotland, the home of golf. Andrew fell in love and was hooked immediately- played the game ever since. He graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Economics and in late 2005 moved back to the Emerald Coast to be closer to his family.
His love to be out on the water and fish combined with his interest in fashion helped a hobby he would do during holidays turn into a business. With the help from his good friend and former boss, he was able to link up with a manufacturer out of Atlanta and the rest is history. Andrew truly loves developing new pieces people like to wear; he thinks one of the coolest things about all of this is walking into an establishment and seeing people repping the brand. “I am really excited about the future of the company.”
Meet Brad
Born in Homestead, Florida, Brad is the son of an Air Force family. His family lived in Japan for some time before deciding to settle in Niceville, Florida, after his brother was born. That’s where Andrew and Brad met and became life-long friends. Brad spent his college years at the University of Southern Mississippi before buying out Mojo’s bar and running it for four years. Brad’s background in sales and hospitality is driven by a love for the industry he still finds himself in today; retiring from managing in the Food and Beverage industry to now bartending while partnering with Andrew in Cool Fish. He has always enjoyed dressing well, and Cool Fish Apparel brings fashion and function together - staying cool and dry at work, and easily transitioning to a night out with friends.