The Grashopper

The Cult Shoe Since 1964

When Sioux launched the Grashopper on a natural moulded last in 1964, the initial reaction to this shoe with generous freedom of movement for the toes was one of shock. During this era, “wasp” waists and high-heeled shoes emphasised feminine elegance.

With its reduced upper and natural rubber crepe sole, the Grashopper is an original and a classic model. It has been copied and reinterpreted countless times. This design is still a cult shoe today and is a firm fixture in the Sioux collection – 60 years after it was launched.

Black and white image of a man wearing Grashoper shoes
Black and white image of a man wearing Grashoper shoes
Sioux Grashopper - image of 1960s Sioux display and logo
Sioux Grashopper - image of 1960s Sioux display and logo

Nevertheless, this bold design gained many advocates over time. Sport, travelling and the student movement brought about a change in attitudes that were prevalent in the 1960s. The Grashopper was the model which heralded in a new and positive feeling towards life. It was a huge success. Looking back, Sioux became a pioneer of casual footwear in Germany.

The most well-known adaptation is the Wallabee by Clarks, which has been on the market, following Sioux's consent, since 1968.