The History of etnies
etnies was founded in France in 1986. The current owner of etnies is the founder and CEO of Sole Technology, who is also responsible for founding Emerica, Altamont, and éS Footwear. Pierre-André Senizergues, a former design student and passionate skateboarder, initially designed his first skate shoes for etnies before eventually successfully expanding the company to the United States. etnies was the first skate shoe company to dedicate a signature shoe to a rider. Skateboarding legend Natas Kaupas, an idol to an entire generation of future pro skateboarders, was to receive this honor in 1990. By the late 1980s, etnies was already supporting other skateboarding luminaries such as Sal Barbier and Eric Dressen and had fully established itself in the scene. Other skateboarding greats like Jamie Thomas, Eric Koston, Chad Muska, Marc Johnson, Tom Penny, and Mike Vallely were also riding in their shoes. More recently, the exceptionally talented Ryan Sheckler —who has been riding for the California-based brand since 1998—has been instrumental in raising the profile of new etnies shoes. In addition to skateboarding, etnies also successfully sponsors teams in BMX, snowboarding, surfing, and motocross.
etnies – The Planet is our Playground
etnies remains committed to developing the most technically advanced skate shoes. At Sole Tech headquarters, researchers are constantly exploring ways to improve products under laboratory conditions. The Sole Tech Institute (STI) extensively tests its shoes for grip, flexibility, cushioning, breathability, and durability, making it a pioneer in the action sports industry. In addition, owner Pierre Andre places special emphasis on strengthening the company’s social and environmental responsibility. The use of recycled materials, the distribution of shoes and clothing to the homeless in L.A., and a tree-planting project in Brazil all contribute to the company’s commitment to sustainability.
etnies in the Titus Online Shop
With their deep roots in the history of skateboarding and the constant improvements to their quality standards, this California-based brand impresses across the board. You’ll always find their latest shoe and apparel collections in our etnies online shop. You can also regularly snag discounted etnies sale items at great prices in our etnies outlet.
Other skate shoe brands at TITUS: DC Shoes, Vans, and Lakai.