Jen Rainnie of MALVADOS
To MALVADOS founder Jen Rainnie, richness means many things: freedom, unforgettable memories, and bold adventure. She speaks to us about her beach-inspired footwear and accessories brand, designed for a spontaneous lifestyle. “To move from one adventure to the next, you need footwear that’s as durable and comfortable as your lifestyle demands,” Rainnie says.
Spanish for wicked, MALVADOS sandals are for women who, like Rainnie, own their independence. “I’ve lived a pretty adventurous life—from van-living in my teens and early twenties while chasing the shoreline as a competitive windsurfer to moving to Hawaii to fully embracing the beach lifestyle,” says Rainnie, a former windsurfing champion, who was born in Montreal and has spent decades travelling the globe.
“Quality and comfort, crafted for those who believe in a life rich in moments and memories”
MALVADOS Marlee II Taboo sandal. Photography courtesy of MALVADOS.
A lover of both mountain and ocean sports, Rainnie believes, above all, in living freely and without limits. The company embodies the magical force of marine tides and roaring waves, staying true to its founder’s core. Rainnie’s own name evokes free-flowing water and the freshness of a spring day.
“When you spend a lot of time in the water, especially in a sport as intense as wave sailing, you develop a deep respect for the strength and power of the ocean,” Rainnie says. “There’s also something incredibly humbling about being out in the middle of nowhere, sharing space with massive sea turtles or playful porpoises,” Rainnie says of the awe-inspiring beauty and humility she sees in nature.
After retiring from boardsports, Rainnie spent two years working for her dream company, Roxy and Quiksilver, at the height of surf culture. “It was an incredible chapter and a powerful learning experience that I feel truly lucky to have had,” Rainnie continues. “My time at Quiksilver taught me the value of authentic branding and the impact of grassroots marketing. Eventually, I saw a gap in the market for a more elevated take on beach flip-flops and sandals—and that’s how MALVADOS was born,” says Rainnie, reflecting on her decisive shift to the world of design. She launched her brand out of Vancouver, impeccably merging ocean with fashion.
“I saw a gap in the market for a more elevated take on beach flip flops and sandals—and that’s how MALVADOS was born.”
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MALVADOS Ellie Cross sandal. Photography courtesy of MALVADOS.
MALVADOS sandals, recognized for their neutral colours and classic silhouettes, are as comfortable as they are stylish. “We offer a core collection of our staple styles each year: Playa, Lux, and our Ellie sandal in our signature neutral colour palettes,” Rainnie says. “Lately, we’ve been having a lot of fun playing with height, adding new lightweight platform options to the line. Bags felt like a natural next step, especially with our customers asking for matching accessories,” Rainnie continues. “We’re thrilled to be launching them for Spring 2025.”
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MALVADOS Ellie Cross sandal and Parker clutch. Photography courtesy of MALVADOS.
MALVADOS Monroe messenger bag - Hampton. Photography courtesy of MALVADOS.
The brand is currently working on its Cruise 2026 campaign. “We’re planning some exciting photoshoots to bring it to life,” Rainnie says. “Additionally, we’re gearing up for a summer promotional campaign in collaboration with one of our favorite swimwear brands, PQ Swim,” shares Rainnie, highlighting the company’s partnerships with aligned brands that share a similar beach lifestyle aesthetic.
To learn more, visit MALVADOS or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
Jen Rainnie. Photography courtesy of MALVADOS.
TEXT BY FATIMA RIZZO