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![]() Etnies: A Real Skate StoryFounding and InnovationFounded in 1986 by former professional skater Pierre André Sénizergues, Etnies began its journey under the name 'Etnics' before legal challenges led to a rebranding. Based in Lake Forest, California and owned by Sole Technology, Inc., the brand quickly built its reputation on performance-driven designs. Early models such as the Senix, Lo-Cut, Low-Top Rap, Intercity, and Scam were engineered specifically to meet the rigors of skateboarding – offering a blend of durability and a minimalist, no-frills aesthetic that spoke to the needs of skaters worldwide. Furthermore, Pierre André Sénizergues not only introduced Etnies to the U.S. market but also played a crucial role in building a network of action sports brands including Emerica, éS, and ThirtyTwo. Skate Culture and CommunityEtnies rapidly evolved from a footwear line into an essential element of skate culture. In 2003, the brand partnered with the city of Lake Forest to open the Etnies Skatepark – a massive 40,000-square-foot facility that has hosted events like the “Goofy vs. Regular” competitions. As the first skateboarder-owned and operated global action sports brand, Etnies has sponsored world-class skateboarders, BMX riders, surfers, snowboarders, and moto-X athletes who continue to push the limits of their sports. This deep-rooted involvement in the community has made Etnies synonymous with authentic skate life. Championing Women and SustainabilityEtnies has long been at the forefront of supporting diversity and sustainability in action sports. The brand broke new ground by sponsoring trailblazer Stephanie Pearson, the first Black woman to become a professional skateboarder, and in 2001, it launched the signature women's pro skate shoe Albatross for Elissa Steamer. More recently, partnerships with influential athletes like Amelia Brodka and Fabiana Delfino have reinforced Etnies’ commitment to empowering female skaters. On the sustainability front, initiatives such as the Buy a Shoe, Plant a Tree campaign—which has planted over 1.7 million trees in regions like Brazil and Costa Rica—along with extensive shoe drives in Los Angeles, underscore the brand’s dedication to giving back to both the community and the planet. Now, over 35 years later, Etnies stands as a testament to authentic design, community spirit, and relentless innovation. With continuous advancements in materials such as high-performance Michelin rubber that enhance durability and reduce environmental impact, Etnies remains committed to crafting footwear that not only meets the demands of skateboarding but also supports a sustainable future. View Our Etnies Range |
![]() Etnies: A Real Skate StoryFounding and InnovationFounded in 1986 by former professional skater Pierre André Sénizergues, Etnies began as Etnics before rebranding due to legal challenges. Based in Lake Forest, California and owned by Sole Technology, Inc., the brand quickly earned a reputation for its performance-driven designs. Iconic early models like the Senix, Lo-Cut, Low-Top Rap, Intercity, and Scam were engineered to meet the rigorous demands of skateboarding and set a new standard in skate footwear. Skate Culture and CommunityEtnies quickly grew into an integral part of skate culture. In 2003, the brand joined forces with the city of Lake Forest to open the Etnies Skatepark, a 40,000-square-foot venue that has hosted renowned events such as the “Goofy vs. Regular” competitions. As the first skateboarder-owned global action sports brand, Etnies has supported a world-class team of athletes—from skateboarders and BMX riders to surfers, snowboarders, and moto-X riders—who continue to drive the evolution of the sport. Championing Women and SustainabilityFrom sponsoring trailblazer Stephanie Pearson, the first Black woman pro skater, to launching the signature women’s pro skate shoe Albatross for Elissa Steamer in 2001, Etnies has long championed diversity in skateboarding. More recent collaborations with influential athletes like Amelia Brodka and Fabiana Delfino further highlight the brand’s commitment to empowering female skaters. In parallel, environmental initiatives such as the Buy a Shoe, Plant a Tree campaign—which has planted over 1.7 million trees—and large-scale shoe drives in Los Angeles underscore Etnies’ dedication to community and sustainability. Today, more than 35 years on, Etnies remains at the forefront of skateboarding innovation. By integrating advanced materials like Michelin rubber to extend the lifespan of its products and minimize environmental impact, the brand continues to honor its legacy while looking to a sustainable future. View Our Etnies Range ![]() Other Brand Stories...![]() |