In the second quarter of 2022, U.S. footwear industry sales revenue was $10.7 billion, a decline of 4 percent versus Q2 2021, according to The NPD Group.
Among segments, Leisure sales were down 11 percent to $4.8 billion. Fashion footwear rose 8 percent to $4.2 billion. Performance footwear declined 7 percent to $1.8 billion.
“Demand for footwear remained soft in the second quarter compared to last year, and a slowdown in average price increases had an adverse effect on sales revenue for the quarter,” said Beth Goldstein, fashion footwear and accessories analyst at the NPD Group. “The slowdown in average price growth was likely due to increased promotional activity and a product mix shift from Leisure sneakers to Fashion footwear, as consumers refreshed their wardrobes for social occasions.”
Based on sales revenue, fashion shoes, fashion sandals and walking shoes were the top three footwear growth categories for Q2. As the fastest-growing category this year, the fashion segment is recovering as consumers resume social and professional activities and summer travel. Growth has occurred across men, women and kids. The success of the walking shoe segment reflects consumers’ interest in being outside.
For the back-to-school season, sneakers capture most kids’ footwear sales by almost 80 percent. “We can expect sneakers to dominate sales again this year, but clogs remain popular, as do slippers, which are now being worn at home and in school,” said Goldstein.
