Top 10 Most Popular Shoe Brands
When it comes to shoes, everyone looks for something different. Some people look at materials; others want fit and comfort. However, shoes have become more than just leather or plastic. Today, they’re a fashion statement. There are so many 'high-tech' features for shoes these days – to the point that some shoes seem more like gadgets than footwear. Just like other fashion trendsetters, the top brands are always competing to outdo one another and design a shoe that meets consumer needs.
The competition is fierce, and it’s sometimes hard to spot who’s on top of the game by observing the brands on the streets. Some high-end, high-quality shoes can cost an arm and a leg. So, to give you an idea of what’s out there, here’s a list of the top 10 shoe brands.
10. Bostonian
This one is more favored by the older generation, rather than teenagers, Bostonian is a popular, world-famous brand. With its own niche in the industry, this shoe company focuses on crafting affordable, comfortable designer shoes.
9. Puma
Puma is a German multinational corporation that has gained global acceptance and is known for producing casual and athletic sneakers. The corporation was founded in 1924 by Adolf and Rudolf Dassler, under the name Gebruder Dassler Schuhfabrik. In 2007, Puma was bought out by Kering, a French group. Puma is a fashion brand that has something perfect for everyone. It’s known for making sneakers that go with almost any clothing or purpose; Puma boasts of using quality materials that can be worn in different climatic conditions.
8. Johnston & Murphy
Johnston & Murphy is a famous American footwear and clothing company founded in 1850 in New Jersey by William J. Dudley, James Johnston, William A. Murphy. It’s now headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. This singular brand markets and sells shoes in over 92 countries and has gained global acceptance and a reputation as one of the best producers of formal footwear and apparel for men. Johnston & Murphy produces lightweight, adequately cushioned, and removable insoles to ensure the buyer gets the perfect shoe they deserve.
7. Reebok
Reebok tops the list in rigidity. It’s one of the top brands in sportswear, running shoes, and shoes. Established in 1895 and acquired by Adidas in 2005, Reebok has changed the face of sports shoes. Reebok shoes double as sports shoes and fashion shoes. It’s known for producing high-quality and durable shoes that stand the test of time. The Reebok brand is also widely praised for its foundation activity. The company donates a percentage of its shoe sales to provide US schoolchildren with before-school physical activities.
6. Berluti
Berluti still stands as one of the renowned Italian shoemakers. Berluti has been in existence for over 126 years and produces shoes with ingenious craftsmanship that has evolved from the firm’s establishment to the present day. Alessandro Berluti founded Berluti in 1895. Initially established in Marche, Italy, its headquarters are now in Paris, France. It is widely accepted for its aesthetic craftsmanship and ingenious designs. Berluti deals mainly in different types of leather to produce menswear such as shoes, leather belts, bags, and wallets.
5. Converse
People often get confused about what sneakers will match what they’re wearing; Converse is usually their go-to sneaker. Converse is a famous brand amongst the younger generation and young adults because its shoes serve multiple purposes and are comfortable. This brand, founded in 1908 by Marquis Mills Converse in Malden, Massachusetts, has become a symbol in American society. In 2003, the company was acquired by Nike; it remains a dominant brand in the market.
4. Testoni
Have you ever seen someone work into an office or a meeting and everyone is overwhelmed by that person's aura? There’s a high chance he is wearing a Testoni shoe. This brand is popular among businessmen who want to stand out. Testoni is an Italian brand that uses the finest leather and fabrics to offer unmatched quality. Testoni shoes are produced with a mastery that dates back to 1929 and Amedeo Testoni, who fused Italian craftsmanship and luxury under the Testoni brand. Testoni shoes are suitable for both informal and official occasions, and their brand ambassadors are celebrities.
3. Jordan
Commonly known as Air Jordan, this brand has gained immense love in its short existence, with its logo inspired by the silhouette of Michael Jordan (the Jumpman). The brand is owned by Nike and was introduced in Chicago, United States, on November 17, 1984. The original Air Jordan was created for Hall of Fame basketball player and six-time NBA Finals MVP Michael Jordan during his time with the Chicago Bulls. It was produced exclusively for Michael Jordan in late 1984 and started selling to the public on April 1, 1985. This Nike-owned brand has produced hundreds of other designs and is still a favorite brand for basketballers.
2. Adidas
Adidas is arguably the best brand in the world, known for specializing in sports shoes, running shoes, apparel, and accessories. Adidas AG was founded by Adolf Dassler in 1949 and is now headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany. It is the largest sportswear manufacturer in Europe and the second-largest sportswear manufacturer in the world. Adidas has grown to become a household name; it’s almost impossible to go out without seeing someone wearing a pair of Adidas shoes.
1. Nike
Nike is regarded as the king of footwear, and in every two households, chances are at least one person owns a pair of Nikes. It is the single most famous shoe brand in the world. This American multinational company specializes in the manufacturing, development, and design of footwear. Nike takes its name from the Greek goddess of Victory. It was founded on January 25, 1964, by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman and officially became Nike, Inc. on May 30, 1971. Its headquarters is in Oregon, USA. The company also leverages its shoe reputation to produce other apparel and equipment that has become as popular as its shoes. It is the world's largest supplier of athletic shoes and clothing and a major manufacturer of sports equipment, and raked in revenues of more than US$37.4 billion in fiscal year 2020.
Shoewear has evolved over the centuries, and so have the brands associated with it. Whether they are known by name or a logo, the shoe brands on our list are surprisingly popular and shouldn't be overlooked. They all share the same goal to provide quality footwear to consumers and maintain high standards in their work.
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About the Author
Sergey Karpenko is a co-founder of Asian-links.com and an online shopping expert.
E-commerce evolves at a rapid pace. Mobile shopping, AR, AI, and big data are transforming the way we shop online. Sergey will keep you up to date with all the current technologies that are enhancing global e-commerce.
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