Meet Johnnie O

John O'Donnell is founder of johhnie-O, a new line of surfwear. Although he was born in St Louis, he can't get enough of the ocean, so we asked actor Chris O'Donnell's surfing sibling what he loves about the outdoors. 

What kind of adventures do you love?  

I love any adventure that involves my family. It can be enjoying a big family dinner, laying on the beach, or just hanging out. But if my six brothers and sisters, mom and dad, in-laws, and 23 nieces and nephews are involved, then it is always sure to be an adventure.

What's your perfect destination?  

My perfect destination is up at our lake house in Michigan sitting on the porch watching a sunset. It takes me back in time to when the only thing on my mind was how many golf balls I was going to find that night.

What sports do you love?  

I love to play golf, basketball, touch football with buddies, and have recently been getting in to squash. It is a great game and an amazing workout.

Who's your adventure hero? 

My adventure hero is my buddy Russ. He jumps into life like nobody else. He travels to exotic places, builds things, and does what makes him happy regardless of what others think. 

What would be your desert island discs if you could choose only three right now?

Joe Jackson for the late night parties, Springsteen to pump up the energy, and a mix of my mom and dad's favourites so I can think of them. 

What's your favourite book by either an adventure athlete, explorer or traveller?

My favourite read was an excerpt my buddy, Whitey, wrote when he hiked through a jungle. It was wild to hear about how remote they were and how out of touch he was with the rest of the world. And coming from somebody you know well makes it that much more riveting.

What's the best piece of travel advice you've been given?   

My mom always told me to bring a blazer with me whenever I travel, because you just never know. 

What's the most extreme adventure you've had?  

Running off the side of a mountain with a parachute in New Zealand. It was nuts and pretty out of character for me.

What's the best piece of kit you've invested in?  

Probably my johnnie-O all-weather shorts. Gotta give myself a plug! They are totally waterproof and water resistant and are great for a wet day on the golf course, boating, hiking, whatever. Stay dry and cool on a hot humid day - perfect.

What adventure sports are you going to try next?  

I want to start paddlesurfing more. I've done it a couple of times, but Iíd like to get out there with buddies more often. That too is a great workout.

What's the one thing that would make your travels better?  

Sitting in first class!

www.johnnie-o.com