A Chef’s Vision for Better Work Shoes

Daniel Shemtob’s journey from acclaimed chef to footwear innovator is rooted in the relentless pace and physical demands of kitchen life. As the founder of The Lime Truck and a winner on Food Network’s “The Great Food Truck Race,” Shemtob spent countless hours on his feet, often frustrated by the lack of durable, comfortable, and stylish shoes built for the rigors of professional kitchens. In 2015, after repeatedly wearing out traditional work shoes and enduring discomfort, Shemtob set out to create a solution that would benefit not only chefs but anyone who spends long hours standing. But it wasn't just about launching a footwear brand, there was a real need to solve a problem. Teaming up with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jason Snibbe and business partner Haik Zadoyan, Shemtob launched Snibbs in Los Angeles in 2020, determined to fill the void with a best-in-class work shoe. Snibbs is truly a brand that was built out of necessity, not just for the worker but for the industry. 

 

Snibbs Pro in Kentucky Blue

The Hedley & Bennett Collaboration: Function Meets Style

Snibbs’ commitment to quality and functionality found a natural partner in Hedley & Bennett, the Los Angeles-based kitchen and lifestyle brand renowned for its chef-grade aprons. The Snibbs x Hedley & Bennett Orbit SE marks the first-ever footwear collaboration together, blending Snibbs’ expertise in slip-resistant, vegan, and recycled materials with Hedley & Bennett’s bold design sensibility. The result is a lightweight, breathable sneaker built to withstand the demands of a busy kitchen while offering all-day comfort and style.

 

Snibbs Orbit x H&B

Supporting LA Wildfire Relief: Footwear with Purpose

Beyond innovative design, the Snibbs x Hedley & Bennett collaboration stands out for its deep commitment to community support. Both Shemtob and Hedley & Bennett founder Ellen Bennett experienced personal loss during the devastating Palisades and Eaton wildfires-Shemtob lost his home, while Bennett’s mother lost hers. In response, the two brands have mobilized to aid those affected, donating a portion of proceeds from the Orbit SE to Restaurants Care—a non-profit which offers direct assistance to food and beverage workers who have lost their homes, jobs, and stability amidst the wildfires. 

The Clog

Snibbs also provided free shoes and meals at distribution points across Los Angeles, while both brands have donated kitchen gear and footwear to local caterers feeding firefighters and displaced residents. Through initiatives like the Snibbs Community Funding Program, Snibbs will provide up to $500 plus a free pair of Snibbs footwear to applicants who are in need within our communities, further reinforcing its mission to support the culinary and hospitality communities. 

 

Snibbs Orbit x H&B

A Lasting Legacy in Footwear and Community

Daniel Shemtob’s vision for Snibbs extends far beyond footwear and truly embodies his ethos of elevating the worker. By prioritizing sustainability, functionality, and social responsibility, Snibbs and its collaborators are redefining what it means to serve the industry-one pair of shoes at a time. The Hedley & Bennett partnership is a testament to Shemtob’s belief that great design and community support can go hand in hand, leaving a positive impact on both the kitchen floor and the city of Los Angeles.