Former iPath pro rider Matt Rodriguez isn't holding back in his criticism of the revamped iPath brand.
The iPath skate shoes have been a core skateboarder-owned brand since 1999. However, in April 2007, they were acquired by the corporate giant Timberland LLC, a manufacturer and retailer of outdoor footwear and apparel owned by VF Corporation.
Jeffrey B. Swartz, Timberland's president and CEO, said, "We are very excited to welcome iPath into our business enterprise. Our commitment to Authentic Youth consumers globally is real. iPath brings a unique and authentic brand, business, and consumer relationship, rooted in a distinctive persona that extends far beyond skateboarding. We believe that a combination of highest quality product, a commitment to environmental sustainability, and a unique consumer voice make iPath a powerful source of new growth and excitement within our brand and business portfolio."
Unfortunately, in 2011, Timberland sold iPath to Klone Lab, LLC, a licensee for New Balance sandals based in Massachusetts. Klone Lab, LLC acquired the brand, but terms of the deal were not disclosed.
After four years of operating under Klone Lab, the iconic skate shoe company disappeared. It only made a return in 2024 and has an exclusive drop at Zumiez.
This led Rodriguez to denounce the change of the guard. In a recent social media post, he urged fans to stay away from what he called "the fake path" and called out the brand's new investors for prioritizing profit over the authentic skateboarding culture that iPath was known for.
Rodriguez's message reminds everyone to support brands and individuals who genuinely care about the skateboarding community and its values.
It's a call to stay true to the roots of skateboarding and to be mindful of brand loyalty and authenticity of core skateboarding culture.
Rodriguez posted, "To whom it may concern,.While some of the OG Cats are away, the m-I-ce will play. Never support rat head investors who only live for spoils of chee$e."