Report: Consumers Spent 8 Percent More for Footwear in Q4 2025 as Performance Leads

The performance category led U.S. footwear industry growth in 2025, with dollars up 6 percent, driven by running, walking and training, with each showing increases in both dollars and units, according to point-of-sale data from Circana.

Running reportedly posted a 9 percent year-over-year (y/y) dollar increase, supported by continued interest in the category for both athletic and casual use. Walking grew 9 percent in dollars and experienced the strongest unit surge in the performance sector.

The sport lifestyle segment, the industry’s largest footwear category, concluded the year up 4 percent in dollar sales, driven primarily by running‑inspired and soccer/football-inspired styles.

Fashion footwear declined, down 2 percent y/y in dollars, with continued softness in seasonal categories. Bright spots included high‑shaft boots (+14 percent) and shoe silhouettes such as mule/clogs (+5 percent), ballerinas (+8 percent) and boat shoes (+35 percent)

Overall, year-over-year U.S. footwear market sales remained steady in 2025, at $90 billion, while units sold declined in the low single-digits, according to Circana’s Consumer Tracking Service.

Fourth Quarter Summary
The company said the fourth quarter (October through December) showed “selective” consumer strength.

For the quarter, overall dollar sales reportedly grew 2 percent, according to Circana data, while average prices rose 8 percent, despite a decline in units sold. The higher average prices reflected a combination of price increases and a more premium‑leaning product mix during the holiday season. Top-growth segments in Q4 were similar to the full year, including performance running, running-inspired lifestyle shoes, mules/clogs, and high-shaft boots.

“Despite uncertainties stemming from tariffs and other economic circumstances, consumers’ footwear needs remained largely consistent throughout 2025,” said Beth Goldstein, footwear and accessories industry advisor, Circana. “Performance and lifestyle categories remain resilient as consumers prioritize comfort, health and everyday utility. Fashion has struggled overall, but the growth areas signal consumers’ interest in newness and more tailored styling while remaining comfortable.”

Image courtesy Running Company, Brooklyn, NY