Etnies announced that Sal Barbier is returning as the creative director of a newly announced SLB by Etnies line.
In the early 1990s Etnies and Barbier collaborated when he skated in the Etnies Red Rap High in Plan B’s Questionable. After that, he designed the Etnies Sal 23 pro model shoe, released in 1994. Etnies reported that Barbier’s “influence as a skateboarder, designer and creative director makes him the perfect person for the role.”
“I always designed out of necessity. I have a different point of view from that of 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 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.“
Barbier starts his role with the relaunch of the Sal 23 for Holiday 2024. He is “designing an SLB by Etnies collection that will launch in Spring 2026.
“Sal’s return to Etnies isn’t just a homecoming; it’s a full circle moment. His passion for skating, design and aesthetics embodies the very essence of skateboarding; his influence is woven into the fabric of our culture. As a true renaissance man, locking Sal in long term breathes new life in Etnies at a time when the brand is rediscovering itself. We are beyond excited to have him back in the driver’s seat for the SLB collection. Pedal to the metal,“ said Brian Cook, Etnies global brand director.
Founded in 1986, Etnies is the first skateboarder-owned and operated global action sports footwear and apparel company. Today, Etnies is lead by owner and skateboarder Pierre Andre Senizergues. The company “stays true to its roots by sponsoring a world-class team of skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, BMX, and MTB riders, and continues its dedication by giving back to each of these communities.”
Image courtesy Etnies
