The Comeback of a Classic: Sal Barbier’s iconic etnies Sal 23 skate shoe returns!
Get ready to lace up your kicks, sneakerheads! This December, the skateboarding world is buzzing with excitement as one of its most legendary silhouettes makes a triumphant return. We’re talking about none other than the iconic etnies Sal 23, originally crafted by skate legend Sal Barbier himself. A symbol of style and performance that defined an era in skating culture, this re-issue promises to reignite nostalgia while appealing to a new generation of riders and enthusiasts alike.
Join us as we dive into the legacy behind the Sal 23, explore why it remains an enduring favorite, and discover what makes this comeback so special for both old-school skaters and fresh faces on the scene. Get ready – these skate shoes are set to make waves once again!
Introduction to Sal Barbier and the etnies Sal 23 shoe
Sal Barbier is a name that resonates deeply within the skateboarding community. When you think of skate shoes for skateboarding, the etnies Sal 23 instantly comes to mind. This iconic sneaker not only defined an era but also influenced countless skaters and enthusiasts alike.
As we gear up for the December release, excitement brews with the announcement of its re-issue after 30 years. Yes, you heard that right! The beloved Sal 23 is back on the shelves, ready to make waves once again in both skating circles and street fashion. Let’s dive into this classic's journey from its inception to its much-anticipated return!
History of the etnies brand and their collaboration with Sal Barbier
etnies was founded in 1986, emerging as a pioneer in skateboarding footwear. Their vision aimed to create skateboard shoes that combined performance with style, quickly gaining traction within the skate community.
Enter Sal Barbier, a skateboarder who defined an era of street skating. His collaboration with etnies began in the early 90s and marked a significant turning point for both the brand and skaters everywhere.
The partnership birthed innovative designs tailored specifically for skateboarders' needs. Sal's influence brought authenticity and credibility to etnies, reinforcing their commitment to quality.
Together, they crafted shoes that were not just functional but also embraced the culture surrounding skateboarding. This synergy laid the groundwork for what would become iconic footwear, setting trends that resonate even today.
“I always designed out of necessity. I have a different point of view than the current marketplace. I am going to unapologetically make a skate shoe, and I need a hardcore skate shoe company to do that. I want to work with etnies to create something so special for skateboarders that makes the outside world take notice again,” said Sal Barbier. “My history with etnies makes this a very honest project, having skateboarders at the top of the company running things matters to me. I couldn’t find a better partner for these reasons.”
The original release and impact of the etnies Sal 23 on skateboarding culture
The etnies Sal 23 debuted in 1994, marking a pivotal moment in skateboarding culture. Designed by pro skater Sal Barbier, these shoes blended style with performance.
Upon release, they quickly gained traction among skateboarders and enthusiasts alike. The unique silhouette offered both comfort and support, making them a favourite among skaters.
Skaters appreciated the durable materials that held up against rugged street conditions. It wasn't long before the Sal 23 became synonymous with innovation and authenticity within the community.
Beyond function, their striking design made a statement on and off the board. This shoe embodied the spirit of creativity that defined an era of skateboarding.
Sal Barbier's influence extended far beyond his riding skills; he reshaped how skaters viewed footwear as part of their identity. The impact was profound—a game-changer that resonated throughout skate history.
Reasons for the re-issue of the shoe after 30 years
The re-issue of the etnies Sal 23 after 30 years reflects a growing nostalgia in skate culture. As many skaters and fans reminisce about their youth, brands are tapping into that sentiment.
Skateboarding has evolved, but classic styles continue to resonate with both new generations and longtime enthusiasts. The Sal 23 embodies an era that shaped street skating, making its return timely.
Moreover, the demand for authentic heritage pieces is rising in fashion circles. The resurgence aligns perfectly with trends emphasizing sustainability and vintage aesthetics.
Sal Barbier’s influence on skateboarding remains unmatched. His signature shoe represents not just performance but also cultural significance within the community.
By bringing back the Sal 23, etnies bridges past and present while honouring its roots and capturing attention from collectors eager to revive those iconic moments on their boards.
Two Iconic Colourways
Over the years, the Sal 23 has come in various colorways, but none have made as strong an impression as the classic Black/White and Brown/Gum options. Etnies plans to introduce additional variants in future seasons, but we’re thrilled that they are kicking off their comeback with such iconic releases.
Black/White
The classic Black/White colorway of the etnies Sal 23 is timeless. It embodies a sleek aesthetic that effortlessly complements any skateboarding outfit. The contrast creates a bold statement, making it easily recognizable on and off the board.
The number 23 displayed on the side of the shoe pays homage to his favourite basketball player during that period, Michael Jordan.
Brown/Gum
On the flip side,the Brown/Gum colour scheme offers a unique visual appeal. Its earthy tones attract those seeking originality in their skate shoes. This combination radiates a laid-back vibe while still upholding stylish design elements.
Both colorways serve distinct purposes. The Black/White option is perfect for those who appreciate traditional aesthetics. Meanwhile, the Brown/Gum variant appeals to trendsetters looking to stand out.
Each choice reflects personal style and skating preference, ensuring there’s something for everyone as these iconic shoes make their return.
Features of the re-issued etnies Sal 23
Design and tested by Sal Barbier
- STI Comfort Level 1 insole
- The iconic Molded TPR ollie guard
- Die Cut EVA midsole
- Padded tongue and collar
- 400 NBS rubber outsole
- Breathable mesh tongue
- OG classic, flexible tread pattern
- Extra laces in custom baggie (a thing of the past!)
- Custom shoebox (OG design)
- OG insole artwork
How fans and collectors are reacting to the re-release news
The buzz around the re-release of the etnies Sal 23 has electrified fans and collectors alike. Many are reminiscing about their first pairs, recalling how they shaped skateboarding culture in the '90s.
Social media platforms are flooded with excited posts. Collectors share photos of their vintage pairs while expressing their eagerness for this new drop. It's a blend of nostalgia and anticipation.
Skateboarders appreciate that classic style is returning to the scene. They see it as a chance to not only wear history but also embrace a shoe known for its performance on decks.
Fans can't wait to lace up those iconic designs again—it's more than just footwear; it's an emblem of skateboarding's rich heritage.
Conclusion: The timeless appeal and enduring legacy of the etnies Sal 23.
The etnies Sal 23 stands as a testament to the evolution of skate shoes for skateboarding. Its re-issue after 30 years is not just about nostalgia; it represents a deep-rooted connection between skaters and their culture. The original design broke ground in performance and style, influencing generations of skateboarders.
Sal Barbier's collaboration with etnies has become legendary. He brought creativity and innovation that resonated with skaters worldwide. The shoe’s unique blend of functionality and aesthetics set the standard for what skate shoes should embody.
The excitement surrounding this drop highlights its enduring legacy within both skateboarding culture and sneaker communities alike. Whether you’re hitting the park or simply looking to make a statement, the etnies Sal 23 remains an essential piece of footwear history—a classic that continues to inspire passion among old-school fans and new enthusiasts alike.
You’ll be able to grab these legendary shoes right here when they release on December 13th.
