Tiebreak International, owners of the Kawasaki and Backyard Footwear brands have announced a new distribution partnership in the U.S.

The best selling Danish shoe of all time will be coming to America for the first time in its 43-year history for a spring 2016 launch.

Created in Denmark in 1972, the iconic shoe was originally designed for the technical rigors of badminton, and worn by several world-class players in the 1970s. Sold throughout Europe under the Kawasaki brand, the line will debut in America with the Backyard Footwear name. Over the past four decades the famous silhouette has graced the feet of athletes, club-goers and fashionistas throughout Scandinavia and most of Europe.

Manufactured in the same European factory since its inception, this famous shoe has sold millions of units in Europe and will be targeted toward upscale American shoe boutiques.

“We are pleased to be partnering with Tiebreak to finally bring this timeless and unique shoe to America” said Eliana Reffue, VP of sales, Backyard Footwear USA. “This casual, comfortable and fashionable line will appeal to both men and women and will wear nicely at work, at the gym or even out on the town.”

Targeting the athleisure market, Backyard shoes are made with canvas uppers and a vulcanized rubber sole.

“We are currently in discussions with select U.S. distributors and are planning for the shoes to be on-shelf by March 2016” added Reffue.

“We have waited a long time to finally introduce Backyard shoes to the U.S. market” said Jan Guldbaek, Tiebreak international sales VP. “The rise in the American athleisure market has created a great opportunity for our sporty shoe line and we are excited to finally be able to introduce our heritage shoes to America.”

Backyard Footwear USA is still seeking distribution partnerships with qualified retailers.