Emerica Skate Footwear S/S 2026 Preview
Retail Buyers Guide: Skate Footwear S/S 2026 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: EMERICA
Interviewee: Bas Janssen – Head of Sales EMEA & APAC
How is the European skate footwear market from your perspective?
Today, the market is in a tough spot. We’re aware that apparel and hardgoods are picking up — but in specialty, footwear is somewhat behind. So I suppose it’s up to the brands to create that excitement and newness. This is a big focus for all our brands.
What do you think the impact of Trump Tariffs will be on the European skate footwear market?
Directly, on the footwear side — none. But indirectly, it could affect brands on a global level, which can impact things from a budget perspective. Also, brands imported from the US will clearly become an issue for specialty retail.
Is there still space for smaller footwear brands in the current market?
Always! Is it easy? That’s another topic…
Are your price points increasing?
No. For SP26, we have reassessed our entire pricing structure across all brands and models — and we’ve reduced prices on a few models to better align with the current competition. Price remains a sensitive topic in the market.
What stories and collection themes are you pushing this season?
On the lifestyle side, we are leaning heavily into the Y2K trend with bulkier styles. We’ve added some new models, along with some very interesting iterations. On the skate side, we’re pushing for innovation and newness, which we will continue into future seasons.
DESIGN
éS and Emerica – Michael Morey, Footwear Designer
etnies – Rick Marmolijo, Footwear Designer
What design trends are you noticing for this season?
A trend we’re noticing — and one we’ve heard in feedback — is the need for classic skate silhouettes that just work. We’ve narrowed the line this season, focusing on a few core silhouettes and updating our colour palettes to remain interesting while still wearable.
Are you releasing any new pro models/colourways?
We haven’t introduced any new Emerica pro models this season, but two killer colourways of Spanky’s KSL III are coming for Spring, along with a super clean White/Red option for Summer. The new style Emerica is bringing to market this season is the Moca, a classic skate silhouette at a great price.
Any brand collaborations to look out for?
(https://japan-forward.com/meet-the-skateboarder-whos-building-a-library-in-nepal/)
Does your footwear brand have a sustainable element? Vegan shoes?
MM.With the launch of the Moca for SS26, the White/Gum colourway uses entirely animal-friendly materials for vegan skaters seeking a clean, core colourway.
Must-have styles for SS26?
MM. The red Moca. Plain and simple!
Key Products:
updates a classic silhouette with features built to handle heavy skating. Its single-wrap vulc construction and Emerica’s signature triangle tread deliver maximum grip and board feel. Elastic tongue straps lock in the fit, while the drop-in G6 footbed cushions every landing. A triple-stitched quarter panel fights blowouts, and the hidden flick shield underlay reinforces the ollie zone for longer-lasting wear.
SP26 – MOCA
Triple-stitched toe cap and a blind seam ollie area for durability, a drop-in EVA foam insole for all-day comfort. Plus, Empact foam heel pod, 400NBS rubber outsole, and herringbone tread give you the grip and support you need.
SU26 – KSL III
Brand Previews
