It is believed the outrigger canoe originated in the region of Indonesia, spreading outwards with the migration of its people into Samoa, Micronesia, and Melanesia. Although there is evidence that it existed in other parts of Polynesia, contemporary outrigger canoe racing has its origins in the Hawaiian Islands. It is the Hawaiian outrigger canoe which is principally used internationally for racing. It is common practice to use the original Hawaiian names to name the parts which make up the outrigger framework; the spars (iako), the floatation device (ama), hull (ka'ale), or canoe (wa'a).

The following traditions should be respected:

- Tying Ti leaves to the canoe brings good luck.

- Each canoe should be treated with respect, since the canoe is alive and is part of the team.

- Don't step over the canoe at any time; walk around the canoe. It is a gesture of courtesy to the canoe to do so.

- Refer to the canoe parts by their Hawaiian names.

- Do not sit in the canoe on dry land. Canoes are fragile.

- Do not swear or argue around the canoe. This brings bad luck and slows the canoe.

- When the canoe is on dry land, the nose of the canoe should point to the water. This is done out of respect for the canoe and its spirit. 

- Carry your paddle with the blade up, not down so the mana does not flow out and is absorbed by the sand.