The Psychedelic Revival of Iconic Lobo Hoodies from Haight Street

The History and Revival of Lobo Hoodies

Lobo hoodies have a rich history stretching back to the 1960s counterculture movement in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. Often associated with hippies and psychedelic style, Lobo hoodies were originally designed and produced by local clothing company Lobo on Haight Street.

Lobo was founded in 1965 by Michael Casey, an artist and entrepreneur who embraced the creative spirit of the era. Casey recognized the demand for hippie-inspired clothing and opened his first store on Haight Street, right in the heart of the growing counterculture scene.

The classic Lobo hoodie featured a simple pullover design with a front kangaroo pocket. But what really made Lobo hoodies stand out were the swirling tie-dye patterns in vibrant colors like purple, blue, pink, and yellow. These rainbow tie-dyes perfectly aligned with the free-spirited hippie movement.

Lobo Hoodies as Counterculture Fashion

In the 1960s, Lobo hoodies quickly became counterculture fashion statements. Psychedelic patterns and casual hoodie silhouettes allowed hippies to stylishly rebel against mainstream society. Lobo capitalized on this demand by expanding to several local boutiques.

The brand gained more popularity when iconic musicians like Janis Joplin and Jerry Garcia were spotted around town wearing Lobo hoodies. As Haight-Ashbury became an artistic hub for hippies, Lobo cemented itself as a go-to clothing brand.

For local hippies and visiting seekers, owning a tie-dyed Lobo hoodie was a right of passage. It represented the ideological freedom and creativity of the time. Throughout the late 60s and into the 70s, Lobo hoodies were ubiquitous in psychedelic San Francisco.

The Decline and Brief Hiatus of Lobo

However, by the mid-1970s, the counterculture movement began to wane. As hippie ideals faded from the mainstream, so did demand for psychedelic clothing. Lobo was forced to close in 1975, unable to adapt quickly enough to changing tastes.

For over a decade, vibrant Lobo hoodies were no longer in production. But that didn't stop collectors and vintage shops from seeking out remaining inventory. Among hippie circles, the brand maintained its legendary status even through its hiatus.

Then in the early 1990s, the revival of 1960s and 70s fashion trends created the perfect conditions for a Lobo comeback. Seeing renewed interest, founder Michael Casey brought the brand out of hibernation in 1995.

The Lobo Revival and Haight Street

When Lobo re-launched in the 90s, Casey smartly leveraged the company's deep roots in San Francisco. He reopened a new store right on Haight Street, once again immersing the brand in hippie culture and nostalgia.

The official return to its birthplace reinvigorated Lobo's tie-dye hoodies with authentic 1960s energy. Being back on Haight Street also introduced the iconic brand to a new generation seeking psychedelic style.

While the area has evolved over decades, Haight Street still clings to its anti-establishment spirit. So for Lobo, it was the ideal location to reboot operations and also maintain connections to loyal local customers.

Lobo Hoodies Today

After rebuilding its brand in the 90s, Lobo has managed to thrive into the 21st century. It remains dedicated to its handcrafted originals while also expanding offerings to include tees, jackets, bags and more.

The flagship Haight Street store still operates with support from parent company Delfonics Inc. In addition, Lobo goods are now sold online and distributed nationwide through third-party retailers.

While no longer the exclusive hippie symbol they once were, Lobo hoodies still attract tie-dye enthusiasts of all ages. The iconic rainbow swirls maintain their retro appeal while also fitting right in with modern streetwear.

In fact, the youthful DIY spirit of 1960s psychedelia has seen a budding renaissance recently. A new generation is embracing the creativity and freedom at the heart of hippie counterculture. Once again, Lobo hoodies are becoming sought-after fashion statements.

The Quality Craftsmanship

Despite growing mainstream popularity, Lobo has stayed true to its roots by maintaining quality craftsmanship. All tie-dyeing and sewing is still done in-house at the San Francisco factory.

This hands-on process allows Lobo to control every step, ensuring that each hoodie meets the brand's high standards. It also enables small batch production runs where each piece is infused with an artisanal touch.

Such meticulous craftsmanship is why the vibrant dyes and cozy construction of authentic Lobo hoodies still can't be replicated. Fans are willing to pay a premium for hoodies proudly bearing the iconic Lobo patch.

Collaborations Keep Things Fresh

Lobo also keeps things interesting by collaborating with current counterculture artists and brands. Recent partnerships have resulted in collections with streetwear label Supreme and rock band Aerosmith.

These collabs introduce Lobo to new audiences while also paying tribute to the company's 1960s roots. They highlight that while Lobo has mainstream appeal, it still nurtures its underground creative connections.

The Exclusive Lobo Experience

There's nothing quite like visiting the OG Lobo store on Haight Street. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule back to the Summer of Love era.

Psychedelic music pumps through the speakers as colorful tie-dye hoodies and tees adorn the walls. The smell of incense floats through the air, emanating good vibes.

Friendly staff decked out in Lobo gear are quick to offer styling tips or just rap about the history ingrained in each unique piece. And with new limited-run designs constantly dropping, every visit offers a fresh experience.

Beyond the racks of signature Lobo hoodies, the shop itself has become a must-see destination. Posters, artwork, and murals lining the walls showcase Lobo's deep connection to Haight Street.

Stepping back outside, customers can explore the neighborhood that birthed this iconic brand. Haight Street is still home to head shops, cafes, and music venues that nurture the area's creative spirit.

So a pilgrimage to the Lobo store really immerses visitors into the sights, sounds, and vibe of psychedelic San Francisco. There's no better place to get your hands on an authentic Lobo hoodie.

Lobo Hoodies: Forever Hippie Counterculture

From their 1960s inception to today, Lobo hoodies have endured as creative fashion statements. The tie-dye patterns burst with the kind of colorful individuality hippies championed.

Yet beyond style, Lobo hoodies represent a mindset. They perfectly encapsulate the communal spirit, artistic expression, and free-thinking that defined the Haight-Ashbury scene.

While Lobo has evolved from dormant brand to thriving business, it's never forgotten its California roots. The authentic Lobo hoodie experience found on Haight Street can't be replicated anywhere else.

For over 50 years, Lobo has broadcast messages of love and positivity through its iconic clothing. Going forward, the brand will continue sharing its good vibes, one tie-dyed hoodie at a time.

FAQs

Where are authentic Lobo hoodies sold?

The only place to buy legitimate Lobo hoodies is directly from the Lobo store located on Haight Street in San Francisco. Lobo also sells through its official website and select online retailers, but the Haight Street shop is your best bet for the true, tie-dyed originals.

How are the tie-dye patterns created?

Lobo uses an old school tie-dye process where the hoodies are hand dyed in small batches at the San Francisco factory. They use a technique of twisting, tying, and pleating the fabric before dip dying it in vibrant colored inks. Each hoodie receives unique psychedelic patterns thanks to this hands-on approach.

Why are Lobo hoodies so expensive?

There are a few reasons Lobo hoodies cost more than average hoodies: small batch production, hand tie-dyeing, and made in America craftsmanship. Each hoodie takes time and care to create, from the custom patterns to high-quality sewing. Devoted customers feel the premium price reflects the top-notch quality and creativity.

How can you ensure a Lobo hoodie is authentic?

Real Lobo hoodies can be verified by looking for the signature Lobo patch logo near the bottom hem. The hoodie should also have a custom psychedelic tie-dye pattern with the swirling, rainbow colors the brand is famous for. Authentic Lobos feel substantial, thanks to details like flatlock stitching and cotton/polyester blend fabric.

What is Lobo's return/exchange policy?

Since each Lobo hoodie is a handmade original, all sales from their website and Haight Street shop are final. However, if your hoodie arrives flawed or damaged, they will happily provide a replacement. Just contact their customer service within 5 days of receiving your order.