Mr. Fliks' story begins in the 1960s. Redondo Beach, California, is a laid-back bay town and Fliks' hometown. After returning from the Vietnam War, the anti-war sentiment fueled the rapid spread of hippie culture across the United States. Young people's clothing gradually broke away from tradition, expressing their weariness of war in an individualistic way. Veterans also wore military uniforms to express their desire for peace. The two cultures blended together, and military uniform elements became a popular style nowadays.

It was at this time that Fliks brought the navy deck shoes that he had been deeply fascinated with during his service back to the public in a form close to life. He used a vulcanized outsole and canvas to create a comfortable, lightweight and easy-to-wear shoe, and added the words "Rodeo Beach" and two stars on it as a clever tribute to his hometown.