Chicken Joe Costume Guide

Chicken Joe from Surf’s Up is one of the most laid-back, fun-loving characters in animation. He’s got that surfer vibe, a mix of goofy charm, and tropical style that’s hard to miss. If you want to bring him to life for a party, cosplay event, or Halloween, you’ll need the right mix of pieces. This guide breaks the outfit down into simple parts so you can put it together without stress.

DIY Costume Items

1. Beanie Hat
2. Chicken Mask Hat
3. Shirts
4. Coconut Shell Bra
5. Luau Hula Skirt
6. Chicken Feet

Chicken Joe Costume Breakdown

1. Brown Skull Cap

Chicken Joe has a tall tuft of straw-like “feathers” on top of his head. To copy that look, wear a brown skull cap over your chicken mask.

The cap should fit snug so it doesn’t slide while you move. Place it high enough to cover the mask’s top edge but not your eyes. Brown is best since it matches the beak and blends with the chicken colors.

For extra detail, glue or stitch raffia or straw-like material to the top of the cap. This makes the tall crest stand out, just like in the movie.

2. Chicken Mask

This is the most important piece for getting his face right. A good chicken mask with a red comb, beak, and wattles instantly sells the look.

Choose a mask with open eye holes so you can see clearly. Comfort matters here because you might wear it for hours. The beak should be bright yellow, the comb a deep red. Soft fabric versions are easier to wear than rigid latex ones.

Make sure the mask sits well over your head. Adjust the straps so it doesn’t slide around. If the beak is detachable, secure it well so it doesn’t drop mid-event.

Extra touch: Lightly pad the inside with foam for comfort, especially around the forehead and cheeks.

3. Long Sleeve Yellow Shirt

Chicken Joe’s feathers are yellow, so a plain long sleeve yellow shirt is perfect for your “body.”

Pick a shirt that’s light and breathable, especially if you’re wearing this costume outdoors. A performance shirt or moisture-wicking fabric works well to keep you cool.

Aim for a golden-yellow tone, not neon or pastel. It should mimic a chicken’s feather color without being too bright. Long sleeves help cover your arms so the illusion is complete.

Style note: Tuck the shirt into your waistband before putting on the hula skirt so it looks neat.

4. Coconut Bra

Yes, Chicken Joe wears a coconut bra in the movie. It’s part of his Hawaiian-inspired style.

You can buy a ready-made coconut bra, usually made of two polished coconut shells with string ties. If the shells are rough inside, line them with felt or cloth for comfort.

Wear the bra over your yellow shirt. Tie it snug so it doesn’t shift while you move. Adjust the height so it sits in the same spot as Chicken Joe’s in the movie—about mid-chest level.

Fun idea: You can hot glue a little bit of raffia or fake straw around the shells for extra island flair.

5. Hula Skirt

The hula skirt is key to Chicken Joe’s tropical surfer vibe. It should be a natural straw color, long enough to cover past the knees.

Look for skirts with an elastic waistband so they fit over your shirt and stay secure. If the skirt comes with flower trim at the waist, that’s fine—it adds to the beach feel.

For movement, straw skirts look better than plastic ones because they sway more naturally. If you go with plastic, choose a style that’s thick enough to hide the fabric underneath.

Layer tip: Wear lightweight shorts underneath for comfort and modesty.

6. Chicken Feet Shoe Covers

To finish the look, you need chicken feet. Shoe covers designed to look like chicken claws slip over your shoes and make the effect complete.

Pick a pair with bright yellow legs and orange claws. They should fit snug over sneakers so they don’t flop around. If they’re loose, add elastic bands inside to hold them in place.

Make sure you can walk comfortably in them. Practice moving around before your event—big claw feet can trip you if you’re not used to them.

Putting It All Together

• Start with your shorts and yellow shirt.
• Put on the hula skirt over the shirt. Adjust so the waistband sits at your waist.
• Tie on the coconut bra over the shirt. Make sure it’s even and snug.
• Put on the chicken mask over the cap. Adjust straps so it’s secure.
• Slip on your skull cap.
• Slide chicken feet covers over your shoes.
• Check the mirror. Adjust anything that looks off.

Optional Add-Ons

While the six main pieces give you a complete Chicken Joe, a few extras can take it further.

• Surfboard Prop: A foam or cardboard surfboard painted in bright colors ties to the Surf’s Up theme.
• Beach Accessories: Add a shell necklace or sunglasses for more surfer vibes.
• Voice and Mannerisms: Chicken Joe has a laid-back tone. Talk slow, keep your body language loose, and smile a lot.

Comfort and Practical Tips

Wearing a mask and costume can get warm, especially at crowded events.

• Hydrate: Drink water before and during your event.
• Breaks: Take off the mask for short breaks to cool down.
• Secure Fit: Double-knot strings on the coconut bra and mask.
• Vision: Test your range of sight before moving in crowds.

Budget Version

If you want to keep costs low, you can improvise with items you already have.

• Yellow long sleeve shirt from your closet.
• DIY coconut bra with painted paper bowls.
• Hula skirt made from cut strips of raffia or paper.
• Chicken mask made from craft foam and elastic.
• Shoe covers from yellow socks with cardboard claws attached.

Final Check Before Wearing

The key to a fun Chicken Joe costume is balance—bright colors, tropical style, and that chicken charm. Before heading out:

• Make sure the mask is secure.
• Adjust the skirt so it’s not twisted.
• Keep accessories light so they don’t overpower the main look.

Once you’re dressed, you’re ready to channel Chicken Joe’s easygoing surfer energy. Whether it’s for a party, cosplay event, or just a laugh with friends, this costume is sure to get smiles.