Top 20 Shoe Brands in the World

What are the best shoe brands in the world?

When it comes to footwear, certain brands stand out above the rest for their exceptional quality, innovative designs, and immense popularity.

These brands have captured the hearts and soles of millions of customers worldwide, offering a diverse range of styles that cater to various needs and preferences.

From athletic shoes to luxury fashion, these top shoe brands have established themselves as industry leaders, setting trends and pushing boundaries with every collection.

In this comprehensive article, we'll explore the origins, founders, and key statistics of the top 20 shoe brands that have left an indelible mark on the footwear industry.

1. Nike

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight
• Foundation Year: 1964
• Headquarters: Beaverton, Oregon, United States
• Parent Company: Nike, Inc.
• Number of Employees: 73,100 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: $46.7 billion (2022)
• Net Income: $6.0 billion (2022)
• Annual Sales: $44.5 billion (2022)
• Market Cap: $207.7 billion (as of March 2024)

Nike, the undisputed king of athletic footwear, was founded in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight.

Originally named Blue Ribbon Sports, the company revolutionized the industry with its innovative designs and cutting-edge technology.

From the iconic Air Force 1 and Air Jordan lines to the ever-evolving performance shoes for various sports, Nike has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in footwear.

With a strong emphasis on research and development, Nike remains at the forefront of athletic shoe design, catering to professional athletes and casual enthusiasts alike.

2. Adidas

• Origin Country: Germany
• Founder: Adolf "Adi" Dassler
• Foundation Year: 1949
• Headquarters: Herzogenaurach, Germany
• Parent Company: N/A
• Number of Employees: 61,336 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: €22.5 billion (2022)
• Net Income: €1.5 billion (2022)
• Annual Sales: €22.1 billion (2022)
• Market Cap: €53.5 billion (as of March 2024)

Adidas, the iconic German brand, was founded in 1949 by Adolf "Adi" Dassler. Known for its three-stripe logo and cutting-edge technologies like Boost and Primeknit, Adidas has been a driving force in athletic footwear for decades.

From performance-enhancing running shoes to stylish lifestyle sneakers, Adidas has something for everyone.

With collaborations ranging from celebrities to high-fashion brands, Adidas has solidified its position as a cultural phenomenon, constantly pushing the boundaries of design and innovation.

3. Puma

• Origin Country: Germany
• Founder: Rudolf Dassler
• Foundation Year: 1948
• Headquarters: Herzogenaurach, Germany
• Parent Company: Kering (since 2007)
• Number of Employees: 14,958 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: €8.2 billion (2022)
• Net Income: €690 million (2022)
• Annual Sales: €8.1 billion (2022)
• Market Cap: €12.3 billion (as of March 2024)

Puma, founded in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler, is another German powerhouse in the world of athletic footwear.

Known for its sleek designs and innovative technologies, Puma has a rich history in sports like soccer, motorsports, and running.

With a strong emphasis on performance and style, Puma has become a favorite among athletes and fashion enthusiasts alike.

From classic suede sneakers to cutting-edge running shoes, Puma's diverse product range caters to a wide audience, solidifying its position as a global brand.

4. Jordan

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Michael Jordan and Nike
• Foundation Year: 1984 (as a sub-brand of Nike)
• Headquarters: Beaverton, Oregon, United States
• Parent Company: Nike
• Number of Employees: N/A (part of Nike)
• Annual Revenue: N/A (part of Nike's revenue)
• Net Income: N/A (part of Nike's net income)
• Annual Sales: Estimated at $5 billion (2022)
• Market Cap: N/A (part of Nike's market cap)

The Jordan brand, founded in 1984 as a sub-brand of Nike, is a cultural phenomenon that transcends the world of footwear.

Inspired by the legendary basketball player Michael Jordan, the brand has become synonymous with style, performance, and excellence.

From the iconic Air Jordan line to modern lifestyle sneakers, the Jordan brand has captivated sneakerheads and basketball enthusiasts alike.

With a keen eye for design and a commitment to quality, the Jordan brand continues to push boundaries, blending sports and fashion in a way that resonates with generations of fans.

5. Reebok

• Origin Country: United Kingdom
• Founder: Joseph William Foster
• Foundation Year: 1958
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States
• Parent Company: Authentic Brands Group (since 2021)
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: N/A
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A

Reebok, founded in 1958 by Joseph William Foster, is a British-born brand that has left an indelible mark on the athletic footwear industry.

Known for its innovative designs and commitment to fitness, Reebok has been at the forefront of several major trends, including the aerobics craze of the 1980s and the CrossFit revolution of the 2000s.

From iconic models like the Reebok Pump and the Reebok Classic to modern performance shoes, Reebok continues to push boundaries, catering to athletes and fitness enthusiasts around the world.

6. Converse

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Marquis Mills Converse
• Foundation Year: 1908
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States
• Parent Company: Nike (since 2003)
• Number of Employees: N/A (part of Nike)
• Annual Revenue: N/A (part of Nike's revenue)
• Net Income: N/A (part of Nike's net income)
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of Nike's market cap)

Converse, founded in 1908 by Marquis Mills Converse, is an iconic American brand that has transcended generations.

Best known for the legendary Chuck Taylor All-Stars, Converse has become a cultural icon, embraced by everyone from basketball players to rock stars.

With a rich history and a timeless aesthetic, Converse has seamlessly blended style and functionality, appealing to a diverse audience.

From classic canvas sneakers to modern iterations, Converse continues to evolve, capturing the essence of casual cool while remaining true to its roots.

7. Vans

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Paul Van Doren and James Van Doren
• Foundation Year: 1966
• Headquarters: Costa Mesa, California, United States
• Parent Company: VF Corporation
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: N/A
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of VF Corporation's market cap)

Vans, founded in 1966 by Paul Van Doren and James Van Doren, is a brand that has become synonymous with skate culture and casual cool.

Known for its signature waffle sole and iconic checkerboard pattern, Vans has transcended its skater roots to become a lifestyle brand embraced by people from all walks of life.

From the classic Authentic and Era models to modern iterations like the Sk8-Hi and Old Skool, Vans has a shoe for every occasion, blending style, comfort, and durability in a way that resonates with generations of fans.

8. New Balance

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: William J. Riley
• Foundation Year: 1906
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States
• Parent Company: N/A
• Number of Employees: 7,000 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: $4.8 billion (2022)
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (privately owned)

New Balance, founded in 1906 by William J. Riley, is a brand that has stood the test of time.

Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, New Balance has become a go-to choice for runners, athletes, and casual sneaker enthusiasts alike.

From performance-enhancing running shoes to stylish lifestyle sneakers, New Balance has a diverse product range that caters to a wide audience.

With a strong emphasis on comfort and support, New Balance continues to push boundaries, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and materials into its designs.

9. ASICS

• Origin Country: Japan
• Founder: Kihachiro Onitsuka
• Foundation Year: 1949
• Headquarters: Kobe, Japan
• Parent Company: N/A
• Number of Employees: 7,956 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: ¥476.2 billion (2022)
• Net Income: ¥41.9 billion (2022)
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: ¥442.8 billion (as of March 2024)

ASICS, founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka, is a Japanese brand that has become synonymous with performance and innovation in the world of athletic footwear.

Known for its high-quality running shoes and commitment to technology, ASICS has been a favorite among professional athletes and dedicated runners.

From the iconic GEL-Kayano line to the lightweight and responsive MetaRide collection, ASICS continues to push boundaries, incorporating cutting-edge materials and design elements to enhance performance and comfort.

10. Under Armour

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Kevin Plank
• Foundation Year: 1996
• Headquarters: Baltimore, Maryland, United States
• Parent Company: N/A
• Number of Employees: 7,400 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: $5.7 billion (2022)
• Net Income: $379 million (2022)
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: $6.2 billion (as of March 2024)

Under Armour, founded in 1996 by Kevin Plank, is a relatively young brand that has quickly risen to prominence in the world of athletic footwear and apparel.

Known for its innovative moisture-wicking fabrics and performance-enhancing designs, Under Armour has become a favorite among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

From running shoes to basketball sneakers, Under Armour has a diverse range of footwear options that prioritize comfort, support, and style.

With a strong emphasis on research and development, Under Armour continues to push boundaries, incorporating cutting-edge technologies into its products.

11. Skechers

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Robert Greenberg
• Foundation Year: 1992
• Headquarters: Manhattan Beach, California, United States
• Parent Company: N/A
• Number of Employees: 9,000 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: $7.4 billion (2022)
• Net Income: $530.8 million (2022)
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: $5.2 billion (as of March 2024)

Skechers, founded in 1992 by Robert Greenberg, is a brand that has made a name for itself in the world of casual and lifestyle footwear.

Known for its comfortable and stylish designs, Skechers has become a popular choice among people of all ages and backgrounds.

From slip-on sneakers to walking shoes, Skechers has a diverse product range that caters to various needs and preferences.

With a strong emphasis on comfort and affordability, Skechers continues to innovate, incorporating advanced technologies and materials into its designs.

12. Clarks

• Origin Country: United Kingdom
• Founder: Cyrus and James Clark
• Foundation Year: 1825
• Headquarters: Somerset, England, United Kingdom
• Parent Company: C&J Clark Limited
• Number of Employees: 9,000 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: £1.5 billion (2022)
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (privately owned)

Clarks, founded in 1825 by Cyrus and James Clark, is a British brand with a rich history and a commitment to quality craftsmanship.

Known for its iconic Desert Boot and other classic styles, Clarks has become a go-to choice for those seeking comfortable and stylish footwear.

From casual shoes to dress shoes, Clarks has a diverse product range that caters to various occasions and preferences.

With a strong emphasis on quality materials and construction, Clarks continues to evolve, incorporating modern design elements while staying true to its heritage.

13. Timberland

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Nathan Swartz
• Foundation Year: 1952
• Headquarters: Stratham, New Hampshire, United States
• Parent Company: VF Corporation
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: N/A
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of VF Corporation's market cap)

Timberland, founded in 1952 by Nathan Swartz, is a brand that has become synonymous with rugged outdoor footwear and apparel.

Known for its iconic yellow boot, Timberland has a rich history rooted in durability and functionality.

From hiking boots to casual sneakers, Timberland has a diverse product range that caters to outdoor enthusiasts and urban dwellers alike.

With a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, Timberland continues to innovate, incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices into its designs.

14. Saucony

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Abraham Hyde and John Woodhouse
• Foundation Year: 1898
• Headquarters: Waltham, Massachusetts, United States
• Parent Company: Wolverine World Wide
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: N/A
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of Wolverine World Wide's market cap)

Saucony, founded in 1898 by Abraham Hyde and John Woodhouse, is a brand that has been at the forefront of innovative running shoe design for over a century.

Known for its commitment to performance and technology, Saucony has become a favorite among serious runners and athletes.

From the iconic Ride ISO line to the lightweight and responsive Kinvara collection, Saucony continues to push boundaries, incorporating cutting-edge materials and design elements to enhance comfort, support, and performance.

15. Gucci

• Origin Country: Italy
• Founder: Guccio Gucci
• Foundation Year: 1921
• Headquarters: Florence, Italy
• Parent Company: Kering
• Number of Employees: 18,628 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: €10.5 billion (2022)
• Net Income: €2.8 billion (2022)
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of Kering's market cap)

Gucci, founded in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, is a brand that epitomizes luxury and high fashion.

Known for its iconic interlocking "GG" logo and exceptional craftsmanship, Gucci has become a symbol of sophistication and style.

From iconic handbags to luxurious footwear, Gucci's product range caters to a discerning clientele who appreciate the finer things in life.

With a rich heritage and a commitment to innovation, Gucci continues to push boundaries, blending tradition with modern design elements to create timeless pieces that are both stylish and functional.

16. Balenciaga

• Origin Country: Spain
• Founder: Cristóbal Balenciaga
• Foundation Year: 1919
• Headquarters: Paris, France
• Parent Company: Kering
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: N/A
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of Kering's market cap)

Balenciaga, founded in 1919 by Cristóbal Balenciaga, is a Spanish luxury fashion house that has become synonymous with avant-garde design and cutting-edge style.

Known for its bold and unconventional approach to footwear, Balenciaga has captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters alike.

From statement-making sneakers to sleek and sophisticated heels, Balenciaga's footwear collection is a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining luxury.

With a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail, Balenciaga continues to create footwear that seamlessly blends form and function, catering to those who appreciate the fusion of art and fashion.

17. Versace

• Origin Country: Italy
• Founder: Gianni Versace
• Foundation Year: 1978
• Headquarters: Milan, Italy
• Parent Company: Capri Holdings Limited
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: N/A
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of Capri Holdings Limited's market cap)

Versace, founded in 1978 by Gianni Versace, is an Italian luxury fashion house that has become synonymous with opulence and glamour.

Known for its bold and vibrant designs, Versace's footwear collection is a reflection of the brand's unapologetic style and flair.

From statement-making heels to luxurious sneakers, Versace's footwear offerings are a celebration of individuality and self-expression.

With a rich heritage rooted in Italian craftsmanship and a commitment to pushing boundaries, Versace continues to create footwear that turns heads and inspires fashion enthusiasts around the world.

18. Fila

• Origin Country: Italy
• Founder: Giansevero Fila and Edoardo Fila
• Foundation Year: 1911
• Headquarters: Biella, Italy
• Parent Company: Fila Holdings Corp.
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: $1.1 billion (2022)
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (privately owned)

Fila, founded in 1911 by Giansevero Fila and Edoardo Fila, is an Italian brand that has become synonymous with sporty and stylish footwear.

Known for its iconic "F-box" logo and commitment to performance, Fila has a rich history in the world of tennis and athletic apparel.

From classic sneakers to modern running shoes, Fila's footwear collection combines style and functionality, catering to athletes and casual enthusiasts alike.

With a strong emphasis on quality and innovation, Fila continues to evolve, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and materials into its designs.

19. Brooks

• Origin Country: United States
• Founder: Morris Vaughan
• Foundation Year: 1914
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States
• Parent Company: Berkshire Hathaway (since 2019)
• Number of Employees: N/A
• Annual Revenue: N/A
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (part of Berkshire Hathaway's portfolio)

Brooks, founded in 1914 by Morris Vaughan, is an American brand that has become synonymous with high-performance running shoes.

Known for its commitment to innovation and its focus on biomechanics, Brooks has long been a favorite among serious runners and athletes.

From the iconic Ghost and Adrenaline lines to the cutting-edge Hyperion series, Brooks continues to push boundaries, incorporating advanced technologies and design elements to enhance comfort, support, and performance.

With a strong emphasis on research and development, Brooks continues to cater to the needs of runners at all levels, providing footwear that helps them reach their full potential.

20. ECCO

• Origin Country: Denmark
• Founder: Karl Toosbuy
• Foundation Year: 1963
• Headquarters: Bredebro, Denmark
• Parent Company: ECCO Sko A/S
• Number of Employees: 21,500 (2022)
• Annual Revenue: €1.4 billion (2022)
• Net Income: N/A
• Annual Sales: N/A
• Market Cap: N/A (privately owned)

ECCO, founded in 1963 by Karl Toosbuy, is a Danish brand that has become synonymous with quality craftsmanship and comfort in footwear.

Known for its innovative leather tanning techniques and commitment to sustainability, ECCO has a diverse product range that caters to various needs and preferences.

From dress shoes and casual sneakers to outdoor boots, ECCO's footwear offerings are designed with both style and functionality in mind.

With a strong emphasis on quality materials and attention to detail, ECCO continues to evolve, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and design elements to create footwear that not only looks great but also feels comfortable and performs exceptionally well.

Conclusion

This comprehensive article has explored the origins, founders, and key statistics of the top 20 shoe brands in the world, highlighting their commitment to quality, innovation, and popularity.

From iconic athletic brands like Nike and Adidas to luxury fashion houses like Gucci and Balenciaga, these brands have left an indelible mark on the footwear industry, capturing the hearts and soles of millions of customers worldwide.

Whether you're an athlete, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional footwear, these brands offer a diverse range of options to cater to your specific needs and preferences.

As the footwear industry continues to evolve, these top brands will undoubtedly continue to push boundaries, setting new trends and redefining what's possible in the world of shoes.