The Czech shoe. Škoda and Botas created unique sneakers

Škoda Auto and the traditional Czech footwear brand Botas have joined forces. Their first collaboration has resulted in a unique limited edition of 130 pairs of sneakers, designed in the spirit of the Modern Solid design language and inspired by the Elroq model. Fans of both brands now have the chance to win and wear them.

2. 4. 2025 Škoda World Heritage

Škoda and Botas are two iconic Czech brands. The Mladá Boleslav-based car manufacturer is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, while Botas has been producing footwear for over 75 years. This union of these two Czech legends carries a deeper meaning. Just like a car, quality footwear is one of the fundamental elements of human mobility, and both inventions present integral parts of personal transportation.

"For generations, people wearing Botas sneakers have been driving Škoda cars. That’s why this collaboration is a great honour for us, and we are extremely proud of the results," says Botas brand director Vít Staněk.

Moreover, Botas and Škoda have a lot in common. They share core values such as functionality, authenticity, sustainability, and a human-centred approach. Both brands also pride themselves on evolving with the times and are deeply rooted in their homeland while maintaining global ambitions. Their tradition, combined with local production, ensures the continuity of craftsmanship and skilled labour. They are also committed to supporting education in their respective fields.

A shoe like no other

The first joint venture is a unique sneaker that will be produced in just 130 pairs—a nod to Škoda's 130-year anniversary. Six lucky winners can get their hands on a pair by participating in a contest on the Instagram account @skodagram. All they have to do is correctly answer a contest question and wait until April 8, when six winners will be randomly selected.

The design of the sneakers was created by the designers of the Colour & Trim department from Škoda Auto and a team of shoemaking experts at Botas. "I think we presented the Botas team with some interesting challenges, but together we managed to tackle them perfectly," says Škoda Auto designer Petra Debnárová.

The look and materials used reflect the characteristics of Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language. "The horizontal lines as seen on the shoes connect to the horizontal lines, we incorporate into our car interiors and exteriors," explains Škoda Auto designer Stefan Webelhorst. Just as the shoe’s form wraps around the wearer’s foot, horizontal lines in Škoda’s interiors embrace passengers, creating a comfortable environment.

The overall proportions are inspired by the traditional shape of Botas sneakers, incorporating the brand’s iconic "Botas Wedge"—a slanted wedge element on the shoe’s sides, which is a signature feature of traditional Botas models and is legally registered as a utility model. The influence of the Modern Solid design language, as seen in the new Škoda Elroq electric vehicle, gives the shoe sleek, elegant lines and a sense of robustness. A standout detail is the pattern of the letter “S” and the caron (ˇ), appearing in the same style as Škoda’s new logo.

The sneakers use materials that can be found in the interior of the Škoda Elroq.

The designers also drew inspiration from the Elroq when selecting colours and materials. For instance, the S-shaped pattern is embossed on the same material used for the car’s upholstery. "The choice of materials, patterns, and technical details all reflect the philosophy of the Modern Solid language," says Webelhorst.

An inspiring collaboration

Developing the shoe was a highly creative process. "We went through about 20 different prototypes, exploring both design and manufacturing possibilities," says Petra Debnárová. She adds that she thoroughly enjoyed working on the footwear project: "Sneakers combine functionality, design, and material harmony. That’s why they are such an inspiration to me in my work. It’s incredible how much you can play with such a small surface," she says with a smile.

Stefan Webelhorst, Vít Staněk and Petra Debnárová choosing the final sneaker design

"The ideas that came from Petra and Stefan were incredibly creative. Their vision for what sneakers could look like was truly inspiring," comments Vít Staněk on the collaboration. And this is just the beginning, he points out, this collaboration won´t definitely stop at just this one shoe design—Škoda plans to reveal more details about future collaborations during Milan Design Week, where the brand will be making its debut. One thing is certain: more footwear from the Škoda and Botas partnership is on the way.