Innes was founded in 1996 by brothers Matt and Chris Hensley. The company started small but steadily rose to prominence in the skate industry. “We started with $30K, and thought that was a lot of money!” says Matt Hensley when recalling the company’s early days. From its humble grassroots beginning in the Hensley’s garage, the Innes brand has weathered the ups and downs of the industry to become a respected and authentic skate brand.
The Innes tradition starts farther back than 1996, however. Innes is the Scottish clan name of Matt and Chris’ later mother. Dating back to 1160 AD, the Innes clan played their full part in the tumultuous history of Scotland. “Be traist,” or “be faithful,” was the clan motto and continues to be the driving force behind Innes.
A recognized logo laden with tradition, the Innes’ swallow logo also has a rich history. A symbol of honor, faith, love, and hope, the swallow represented everything from luck to loyalty to sailors in olden days. It even came to symbolize the idea of returning home safely for many sailors, protecting them from harm on their perilous journeys. It was a great comfort, as well as a status symbol, to sailors out at sea and beyond.
Continuing the value and traditions set forth by their family’s namesake, the Innes brand represents an attitude that has always been inspired by its roots in music and the skateboard lifestyle. At the forefront of the music industry, Matt Hensley - also a member of the band Flogging Molly - has steered Innes into a new direction while still remaining true to their roots. The brand has sponsored bands that match their values and style, including the Street Dogs and Aggrolites.
Focusing on timeless silhouettes as well as some more daring contemporary themes, the Innes collection of tees, hoodies, button ups, sweaters, jackets, jeans, shorts, hats, beanies, and other accessories is inspired by tradition but isn’t afraid to break it. Innes provides the world with creative and authentic lifestyle streetwear, creating skate-inspired street fashion with a tinge of 60s mod styling. Be faithful to yourself with Innes.
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