Etnies

Etnies. Etnies is an American footwear and apparel company, founded in 1986 by professional skateboarder Pierre André Senizergues. Operating as a core brand within Sole Technology Inc., it is recognized as one of the first skateboard shoe companies owned by a skateboarder. The brand is distinguished by its deep roots in action sports culture, innovative product designs, and long-standing commitment to sustainability and community support.

History

The company was established in Southern California by French-born professional skateboarder Pierre André Senizergues, who sought to create performance footwear specifically for skateboarding. Initially, the brand imported and sold shoes from France, but by 1989, Senizergues began designing and producing his own line. A pivotal moment came in 1996 with the launch of the ÉS brand, which expanded the company's focus. The corporate entity, Sole Technology Inc., was formed to oversee its growing portfolio, which later included brands like Emerica and ThirtyTwo. Throughout the late 1990s and 2000s, Etnies solidified its reputation through key product innovations and strategic sponsorships of influential athletes from teams like the Plan B team. The company's headquarters in Lake Forest, California also houses one of the world's first skatepark research and development facilities, The Etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest.

Products

Etnies primarily manufactures skate shoes, utilizing proprietary technologies developed for durability and boardfeel. Key innovations include the STI Evolution Foam system for impact protection and the GCS (Goofy vs. Regular Cushioning System). The product line encompasses a wide range of footwear styles, from classic cupsole models like the **Marana** to vulcanized designs. Beyond footwear, the company produces a comprehensive collection of apparel, including t-shirts, hoodies, denim, and outerwear, often featuring collaborations with artists and other brands. The brand also markets accessories such as socks, hats, and backpacks. Manufacturing has historically involved global partners in countries like China and Vietnam, with a consistent focus on integrating recycled materials.

Sponsorship and athletes

Etnies maintains a prominent global team of sponsored action sports professionals, which has been central to its brand identity and product development. The roster has included legendary figures such as Natas Kaupas, a pioneer of street skateboarding, and Geoff Rowley, known for his part in the seminal video **Sorry**. Current and past team members also include Ryan Sheckler, Chris Joslin, and Nora Vasconcellos. The sponsorship extends beyond skateboarding to include athletes in BMX and surfing, such as Scotty Cranmer and Nathan Fletcher. The company supports its team through signature shoe models, video projects like **Etnies: Let's Go**, and involvement in major events like the Street League Skateboarding championship and the X Games.

Corporate social responsibility

The company has implemented significant environmental and social initiatives, often under the umbrella of its **"Buy a Shoe, Plant a Tree"** program in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation. This reforestation effort has resulted in the planting of millions of trees globally. Etnies was an early adopter of sustainable practices in the footwear industry, utilizing recycled rubber, organic cotton, and hemp in its products. The brand's headquarters in Lake Forest, California is LEED Silver certified, and the on-site public skatepark provides free access to the local community. Furthermore, the **Etnies Jameson Bloodline** shoe model was created to support blood donation awareness campaigns in collaboration with the American Red Cross.

See also

* Skateboarding * Vans * DC Shoes * Adidas * Skate shoe * Action sports * Footwear industry

Category:Footwear companies of the United States Category:Skateboarding companies Category:Companies based in Orange County, California Category:1986 establishments in California