Circana reported that U.S. footwear industry sales totaled $19.3 billion, a decline of 4 percent versus Q1 2024. The retail tracking and market advisory firm reported that Sport Lifestyle, or athleisure sneakers, were again the largest footwear segment, growing almost 1 percent for the quarter.
Overall, the Performance Footwear category outperformed the total market, with dollar sales up 4 percent. Circana reported that Running sales grew by 7 percent and generated the highest incremental dollar growth compared to last year, and Walking shoes also grew by double-digits based on dollar and unit sales.
The Fashion Footwear category declined 9 percent, but growth stemmed from smaller segments, including high-shaft boots, flats and ballerina shoes. Slipper sales increased by 10 percent. Boat shoes also grew for the first time in roughly 10 years, driven by new fashion interpretations in women’s.
“Footwear sales slowed in the first quarter of 2025, but demand remains strong for certain product categories, including running and sport lifestyle, as well as select fashion styles that provide comfort and versatility,” said Beth Goldstein, footwear and accessories industry advisor, Circana. “The upcoming months are likely to test the limits of consumers’ wallets, but these results are an indicator of the types of footwear that consumers will continue to prioritize.”
Image courtesy New Balance and Nordstrom
