Etnies X Apache: A Collaboration Celebrating Heritage and Skateboarding

The etnies X Apache collection is available now at etnies.com/collections/apache....

This collaboration unites etnies with Apache Skateboards, a brand founded in 2002 by Douglas Miles Sr., a community leader, artist, and muralist from the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona. Apache Skateboards is recognized as one of the first Native American-owned skateboard companies.

The brand's origin story is rooted in family and community. Douglas Sr. hand-painted an Apache warrior on a blank deck for his son, Douglas Miles Jr. After one day of skating, Douglas Jr. came home saying all his friends wanted one, and Apache Skateboards was born.

For the past two decades, the Miles family and the Apache crew have traveled extensively, primarily to Native American reservations. They host demos, art shows, talks, and youth clinics, dedicated to spreading the creative and communal spirit of skateboarding while spotlighting Indigenous culture through art, design, and film.

The Collection: Design and Inspiration

The new collection features two newly updated etnies skate shoes, the Locut and the Loot, both built with full EVA midsoles for enhanced comfort and support.

Douglas Miles Jr. selected the silhouettes, appreciating their durability and aesthetic. "I like the Loot because of its aesthetic and durability—it’s stable, cushioned, and ready for jumping. The sand color and triangle patterns remind me of the San Carlos Apache rez," he shared. "The Locut has that OG vibe I love. All three shoes feature embossed mountain designs and stitching that carry our sense of heritage."

Douglas Miles Sr. added his signature hand-drawn details throughout the collection, including subtle heritage-inspired graphics around the heel and a custom tongue label.

The collection is rounded out with the Marana Kids, allowing young skaters to be part of the story. Each children's pair comes packaged with unique footbed art and a matching custom shoe box.

A Shared Legacy

The etnies X Apache collection celebrates creativity, community, and a shared respect for skateboarding’s deeper roots, connecting generations through purpose and design.

Douglas Miles Sr. views the partnership as a significant moment: "Apache Skateboards working with etnies is an amazing way to honor the legacy of two groundbreaking skate brands. Legacy is beyond trend.”

Pierre-André Senizergues, etnies founder, expressed his admiration: “I’ve been a fan of Douglas Sr's art and everything he does to uplift his tribe—just like ours—with integrity and vision. He’s one of a kind and inspires many.”

You can follow the story on Instagram: @etnies | @apacheskateboards1 | @steezyapache | @dmiles1_apache #etniesXApache.