A national survey commissioned by the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) finds that the majority of consumers reported feeling the impact of rising footwear prices, with tariffs viewed as the primary driver.
The survey, conducted by Emerson College Polling, found that 75 percent of consumers report noticing higher shoe prices over the past year, and 76 percent expect shoe prices to continue rising in the coming months.
For those surveyed respondents earning less than $50,000 annually, concerns are especially high.
A combined 70 percent of respondents noted tariffs are either the primary cause or a major contributor to rising footwear prices.
Among those ages 50 and older, represented in the report, over 80 percent identified tariffs as a major contributor to inflation.
FDRA President and CEO Matt Priest stated, “This survey makes it clear: Consumers are feeling the pinch, and they know tariffs are part of the problem. With the holidays approaching, families are making tough choices, and shoes are increasingly being left off the list. Policymakers need to understand that tariffs are not abstract policy tools — they’re real costs passed on to hardworking Americans.”
Image courtesy Tops for Shoes
