88er was built from one of the darkest seasons of my life.

In 2023–2024, I faced deep personal struggle, marked by a DUI that forced me to confront who I was becoming. I felt at my lowest. That season mirrors Psalm 88 — a chapter that speaks honestly about suffering while continuing to pray through it. It reminded me that even in darkness, faith remains.

Through prayer and reflection, I began to rebuild. I knew I needed change — spiritually and physically. I stepped away from my past, prayed for direction, and committed to starting over.

In early 2025, I met my now fiancée and discovered a new chapter in Pittsburgh, where I relocated. That move represents what the number 8 symbolizes in the Bible: new beginnings, resurrection, and regeneration.

88 represents renewal — twice over.

It also represents my birth year, March 13, 1988, tying identity and accountability into the brand itself. King David, the eighth son of Jesse and a central biblical figure, embodies a life marked by failure, faith, redemption, and leadership — symbolism that resonates deeply with this journey.

88er stands for this truth:

Even through suffering, you can begin again.
Even after mistakes, you can rebuild.

Our mission is to unite people through faith, culture, and identity — reminding them that growth is always possible. 

88er is more than apparel.

It is elevation through adversity.
It is new beginnings.

 

--Dave Lubich, Founder 88er