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Brazilian skateboarder Kelvin Hoefler’s resume includes a silver medal-winning performance in the first-ever men’s street skateboarding event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He can now update his resume to include sneaker designer.
With the 2024 Paris Olympics on the horizon, sustainable sneaker brand Cariuma has released the Hoefler T20 Pro, the decorated skateboarder’s signature shoe, which he helped design.
The Cariuma Hoefler T20 Pro — which is available now via Cariuma.com and retails for $89 — was designed to be both durable and sustainable. It features premium Leather Working Group-certified suede uppers, recycled mesh lining, slip-resistant recycled rubber outsoles and insoles made from cork and bio-based foam.
With his shoe now available and the 2024 Summer Games not far off in the distance, Hoefler spoke with FN about its design, working with Cariuma and how he’s preparing for Paris.
How was the Cariuma Hoefler T20 Pro designed to ensure it performs well for you? And what are the performance characteristics that all skaters will enjoy?
“I designed a shoe with Cariuma’s designer to look good, to be durable and perform well for skateboarders. So we did the toe shape for flick, the rubber not too bulky and smooth texture for a consistent response on grip tape lace loops to keep the laces and shoe as durable as possible from blowing out. And sturdy but lightweight with the suede and mesh combination.”
What makes Cariuma the ideal brand partner for you?
“Cariuma is always trying to help us athletes and doing great for the planet. It’s a company focused on the good. Everyone I met from Cariuma is amazing, respectful and always willing to help and listen to us. With Cariuma it’s always a close connection to all who work there.”
Who are some of the skateboarders of both generations past and today that have inspired you and your style?
“When I was young in Brazil I was inspired by my neighbors skaters and a lot of the Brazilian pros. After that, I started watching a lot of skateboarding videos from the USA and I started learning by watching them so I have a lot of inspiration from a lot of people I love watching skateboarding. Today, I’m inspired by any kid learning a new trick at a local skatepark or any top pro at a high level because I see how much passion they have and are doing amazing tricks and inspiring me every day.”
How are you preparing for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris?
“I’m just doing what I’ve been always doing: practicing a lot, staying healthy and learning some new tricks for the Olympics.”
Aside from skateboarding, what sports in the Summer Games are you looking forward to watching?
“I love watching sports in general. It’s such a great feeling to see how many athletes are there putting up with their heart and hard work. I like watching all but my favorites are soccer, surfing and volleyball. Being in Tokyo 2020 made me change my mind when I saw all the nations and all the athletes together for one great goal. I respect them all.”
Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.
