As you may have heard SoleTech (Etnies/éS/Emerica) was sold to a Swiss company (the Nidecker group). It is not owned by Pierre-André Senizergues anymore.
The following shoes appear to be new on the éS website, and they are listed as vegan. I have not seen these shoes "live", but "synthetic nubuck/mesh" might (?) mean a return to the low-quality (and cheap) "nubuck" of the 1990s (?). I hope I'm wrong.
éS Scheme black/charcoal
- Energy Foam Midsole
- Deep Flex Grooves
- Maximum Tongue Foam Padding
- TPR Molded Eyelets
- 400NBS Rubber Outsole
- Custom TPR Molded Logos
- Breathable Mesh Paneling
- Reflective Detailing
- Molded EVA Insole
- Synthetic Nubuck/Mesh
- Vegan
éS Scheme navy/gum
"éS footwear was created in 1995 by skateboarders to advance and innovate footwear to keep up with the progression of the sport. The Scheme is one of the more advanced shoes that set the direction for all others to follow. This highly demanded reissue is a mirror of the original with its super comfortable Energy Foam midsole and overall iconic design. For those seeking style on and off the board - the Scheme is for you.
- Energy Foam Midsole
- Deep Flex Grooves
- Maximum Tongue Foam Padding
- TPR Molded Eyelets
- 400NBS Rubber Outsole
- Custom TPR Molded Logos
- Breathable Mesh Paneling
- Reflective Detailing
- Molded EVA Insole
- Synthetic Nubuck/Mesh
- Vegan
"
Update 17 March 2025: This shoe is probably not vegan.
Update 27 March 2025: ... available as of late ...
éS Sophisto black/gum
The éS website says:
"
In 1995, éS was launched in response to the growing demand for sophisticated skateboard footwear. Drawing from decades of heritage and purpose-built skate shoes, the Sophisto is simple yet technical, calculated but uncomplicated.
- Mid Top Construction for Ankle Support
- Lycra Spandex Tongue Straps
- Molded STI Energy Foam Footbed
- Breathable Tongue Mesh
- Minimal Tongue and Collar Padding
- 400 NBS Rubber Cupsole Outsole
- Vegan
"
Update 7 June 2025: ... available as of late ...
Note: The éS website does not say "vegan" anymore in the description of the shoes. It now says "animal-friendly". The good thing about this - in my opinion - is that it shifts the focus to animals, and they are who matter. Leather is animal-unfriendly, to put it mildly. The bad thing is that there is no explicit statement that these shoes are vegan (for example, no animal components in glue) - however, in reality there is very likely no difference between before (the description said "vegan-friendly") to now (the description says: "animal-friendly") in what this really means regarding the shoes' "vegan status". Usually, water-based glues are used for most shoes nowadays - not bone glue like in the old days. However, most or many glue companies are likely owned by big corporations that may conduct animal experiments, especially in China.
Historically, shoe glues were made from animal-based adhesives such as bone glue or hide glue, which involved boiling animal parts like bones, skins, and tendons to extract collagen. This process was common in the past but is now mostly phased out in shoe manufacturing.
Nowadays, most shoe manufacturers use synthetic adhesives rather than animal-based glues. Synthetic glues are cheaper, more consistent, more stable, and better suited to the demands of footwear, such as resistance to weather and stretching. This change is due to technical advantages - most people don't care about killing animals for shoes or glues.
However, some companies still produce and use animal gelatine-based glues for shoes. In a more ideal, very vegan-friendly world, we would be able to get info from the shoe companies that only truly vegan glues are used. But we are far from such a more ideal world.
Many large corporations have historically required animal testing, especially in cosmetics. Recent regulations in China appear to allow "cruelty-free" brands (no animal testing) to enter the market.
Moral of the story: As a long-term animal rights supporter and vegan, I find these shoes acceptable.
Note: It seems a bit like éS is trying to be a vintage brand now for the young-at-heart but nostalgic 40+ crew.
éS Quattro white/grey/red
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Says the éS website:
"éS Quattro Reissue – A Timeless Classic RebornThe éS Quattro returns, and it’s better than ever! Originally released in 1998, the Quattro was revolutionary for its time, setting new standards in skate shoe design. Loved by skaters like Ronnie Creager and Rick McCrank, this reissue stays true to the original while introducing modern upgrades to keep it ahead of the curve.
- Double-Cup Outsole – The Quattro pioneered this construction, offering dual cushioning for next-level impact protection and boardfeel.
- STI Energy Foam Midsole – Integrated into the double-cup outsole for added comfort, giving you the perfect mix of performance and support.
- 400 NBS Rubber Outsole – Legendary grip and board control, flexing in all the right places for superior traction.
- Premium Materials – Breathable mesh for comfort and sturdiness.
- Reflective Accents – Subtle yet flashy details that make you stand out during late-night skate sessions.
- TPR Heel Panel – Provides added foot support and locked-in fit for secure landings and control.
- Molded Eyelets & Laces – Keeps your laces snug and secure, preventing frays and slippage.
- Animal-Friendly Materials – A classic design with a conscious twist.
The Quattro blends chunky ‘90s skate style with modern-day tech, creating a clean, bold silhouette that still turns heads. With molded rubber tongue labels and reflective details, it brings that signature ‘90s skate flair while staying sleek enough for today’s style.
Why It’s Legendary:
The éS Quattro wasn’t just a skate shoe; it was a statement. From its innovative design to its durability and versatility, it was a shoe that could handle any session and still look fresh. Today’s reissue combines that classic performance with today’s tech advancements to deliver a shoe that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re skating all day or hitting the streets after hours, the éS Quattro keeps you covered.
Shop the Quattro Reissue today and experience a piece of skate history designed for the future."
éS Silo SC black/white
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Says the éS website:
"éS Silo SC – The Past Meets the Future in Skate FootwearThe éS Silo SC brings the late-’90s skate aesthetic back to life with a modern twist. Inspired by the iconic éS K1 from 1997, this reissue blends nostalgic style with today’s cutting-edge skate shoe technology. Whether you remember the original or are discovering it for the first time, the Silo SC offers the best of both worlds.
Key Features:
- STI Energy Foam Midsole – Full-length foam for maximum impact absorption and all-day comfort.
- Double-Cup Outsole – Two layers of durable cupsole rubber for ultimate protection, cushioning, and board control.
- Synthetic Leather & Mesh Upper – Animal-friendly, lightweight, and breathable, keeping your feet cool and supported during long sessions.
- Plush Foam-Padded Tongue & Collar – Soft and supportive, ensuring your foot stays locked in without unnecessary bulk.
- Herringbone Tread with Updated Patterns – Offers superior grip and board feel, ideal for flip tricks and big gaps.
- Animal-Friendly Construction – Built with sustainable materials for a classic look that’s eco-conscious.
Visually, the éS Silo SC channels the bold, multi-layered design of the late ’90s, featuring strong lines and a chunky silhouette that made skate shoes iconic. With its retro colorway, this shoe is pure throwback style—and it still turns heads.
Why It’s Legendary:
Whether you’re reliving the glory days or experiencing this shoe for the first time, the éS Silo SC lets you step into skateboarding history—without sacrificing modern comfort or performance."