About Epic Grindshoes

Epic. That’s the word that came to mind when we started talking about this project in 2019. But we have to rewind to the 90's to pinpoint where our passion for grindshoes began.

During the 90's, the grindshoe movement was huge. They were called Soap Shoes. Everyone that started working on this project had a pair. In fact, our brand owner Matthias Knoll, was one of the first to get a look at the photos and videos of these innovative shoes. He was so hyped up about them that he went on to become an official distributor.

Despite the tremendous success of grindshoes, the movement ended, in part, by a lack of product. We never forgot about it. Parkour and freerunning grabbed the public’s attention, and we found ourselves thinking “How incredible would it be to see a revival of grindshoes and to see them incorporating all these new things?”

Personally, the idea wouldn’t leave me alone. I started hunting through second-hand websites for old grindshoes. I imagined an ordinary walk transforming into this epic journey, where I could jump on anything and grind as if I were in a videogame. 

 Then I found myself in Germany having a meeting with Matthias. “Lately, all I can think about is how much we should bring back grindshoes,” I told him. Matthias stood up and left the room without a word. Moments later he returned with a pair he had stored away many years before and said, “YES! I’ve been saving these for a while, waiting for the right time to do it myself – so let’s do it!”

A dream team was soon on board – no one needed much convincing.

Everyone – from team riders and designers to photographers and videographers – were thrilled. We had all loved grindshoes then, and we all still love them today. 

We are over the moon to be able to work together to launch Epic Grindshoes this 2022 and to share our passion and excitement with all of you.

Oli

Epic Grindshoes is:
Matthias Knoll (Product Team)
Oli Benet (Brand Manager)
Javier Rosa (Head Designer)
David Montes Aldea (Photography)
Stefan Beyer (Studio Photography)
Rafael López Maldonado (Videography)
Joe Minisquero (Chief Community Officer)
Brian J. Esposito (Head of Strategy)

Team:
Nick Lomax  
Eugen Enin
Montre Livingston
Bob Reese
Sven Ischen
Air Dolphin
Mery Munoz
Xavi Eguino