Sneakers have evolved from humble athletic wear to cultural icons, capturing the essence of style and comfort in American fashion. Dominating the US market with a staggering $23.4 billion in sales, sneakers are not just shoes but a statement. Join us as we delve into the insights from the Consumer Insights Brand KPI survey, uncovering the top sneaker brands in America.
Nike
Brand Popularity – 64%
Nike’s dominance in the sneaker industry is not just a matter of chance; it’s a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence. With 64% of brand-aware consumers expressing their preference for Nike, it’s clear that the Swoosh isn’t just a logo; it’s a symbol of innovation. From the groundbreaking Flyknit technology to the personalized touch of NikeID, the brand has consistently stayed ahead of the curve. Its roster boasts of some of the most iconic sneakers in history – the Air Max, Air Force 1, and Air Jordan lines have become more than just footwear; they’re cultural landmarks.
Adidas
Brand Popularity – 54%
Adidas stands as a beacon of innovation in the sneaker world, with 54% of consumers who know the brand favoring it. Established in 1949, Adidas has been pioneering cutting-edge footwear technology. Its R&D efforts have led to breakthroughs like the Ultra Boost and ventures into 3D-printed soles. Beyond classics like the Superstar and Stan Smith, Adidas collaborates with avant-garde fashion minds, propelling its popularity in the US.
New Balance
Brand Popularity – 44%
With a 44% brand popularity, New Balance stands out for its commitment to comfort and craftsmanship since 1906. Known for its premium sneakers made by skilled artisans in the US and UK, the brand has earned a stellar reputation among diverse audiences. Its iconic designs, like the Fresh Foam Beacons and 608s, merge classic appeal with modern style, securing its place in sneaker culture. Championing chunky, comfortable designs, New Balance collaborates with trendsetters, ensuring its status as a purveyor of timeless, quality footwear.
Converse
Brand Popularity – 40%
Converse epitomizes timeless style and the iconic Chuck Taylor All-Star. Introduced in 1917, this classic high-top has remained essentially unchanged, a testament to its enduring design and global appeal. Beyond the Chuck Taylor, Converse offers a range of shoes like the Run Star Motion and Chuck 70s, blending old-school charm with modern sensibilities. The brand’s commitment to accessible, stylish, and durable footwear cements its status as a staple in the sneaker industry and popular culture.
Skechers
Brand Popularity – 38%
Skechers, boasting a 38% popularity among brands, emerged in 1992 under the vision of Robert Greenberg. Initially carving a niche in casual street shoes, Skechers distinguished itself in a market saturated with athletic footwear. The brand’s international expansion in 1997 and IPO in 1999 marked its rapid growth. Today, Skechers is renowned for its vast collection of over 3,000 original designs, catering to men, women, and children, and is vigilant in protecting its innovative designs from imitators.
Jordan
Brand Popularity – 37%
Jordan Brand continues to shape sneaker culture since the debut of the Air Jordan 1 in 1984. The AJ1 remains a design staple, influencing fashion and attracting high-profile collaborations. While originating from Nike, Jordan has evolved into an iconic brand, its collectible sneakers coveted for their exclusivity and style. The brand’s story is a hallmark of sports marketing success, with its limited releases and partnerships with brands like Supreme and Off-White fueling its enduring hype and prestige.
Vans
Brand Popularity – 36%
With a 36% brand popularity, Vans epitomizes the essence of alternative lifestyle footwear. Since the mid-1960s, Vans has maintained its appeal through simple, timeless designs like the Old Skool, Classic, and Authentic. Thanks to their versatility and affordable charm, these sneakers have become a staple for skaters, rock stars, and hip-hop icons. The brand’s roots in the West Coast skate scene and its commitment to unpretentious, colorful, and charismatic designs have kept it relevant and beloved, transcending fleeting fashion trends.
Reebok
Brand Popularity – 33%
With a brand popularity of 33%, Reebok stands out as a beacon of enduring style in the sneaker world. Originating from Britain and now a subsidiary of Adidas, this global brand boasts a rich history dating back to 1958. Its Boston-based designs reflect a blend of international influences, appealing to high-profile celebrities and fashion-forward individuals. While Reebok’s sneakers, including the Classic and the Workout, may not feature the latest in knitted mesh or 3D printing technology, their classic design and undeniable comfort have cemented their status as perennial favorites that never fade from fashion.
Puma
Brand Popularity – 31%
Puma has been a steady and strong presence in the sneaker industry since Rudolf Dassler founded it in 1948. Unlike its louder contemporaries, Puma has focused on refining what works—the timeless classics that have defined the brand for generations. Its approach to the chunky sneaker trend with models like the Thunder Electric and Tsugi line showcases Puma’s ability to innovate while keeping its products accessible and wallet-friendly.
Asics
Brand Popularity – 23%
Born as Onitsuka in 1949 and later evolving into Asics, this Japanese brand has a storied history intertwined with the origins of Nike. With a brand popularity of 23%, Asics has carved out a niche for itself in the world of athletic footwear. Renowned for delivering the performance that meets the demands of elite runners, Asics has also captured the attention of the fashion-forward crowd. Asics impresses everyone with its blend of functionality and style, particularly with the Gel-Kayano series and other models like Gel-Odyssey, Gel-Pulse, and GT-2000s. The brand’s collaboration with designers like Vivienne Westwood and Kiko Kostadinov has added a touch of avant-garde to its lineup.
Champion
Brand Popularity – 23%
With a brand popularity of 23%, Champion has been a prominent figure in the athletic footwear industry since its establishment in 1919. Based in Los Angeles, California, Champion shoes have become synonymous with comfort, lightness, and durability — qualities highly valued by athletes worldwide. The brand’s versatility across various sports types has only solidified its reputation. Champion’s footwear, especially popular among tennis players, offers a blend of style and functionality.
Allbirds
Brand Popularity – 22%
Allbirds, the innovative footwear brand, has soared in popularity, currently at 22%. Renowned for crafting “the world’s most comfortable shoes,” Allbirds has revolutionized the shoe industry with its unique blend of comfort, style, and sustainability. The brand’s signature Wool Runners, made with proprietary low-density foam soles and merino wool insoles, offer unparalleled comfort, akin to “walking on a cloud.” This comfort, combined with a celebrity following that includes names like Jessica Alba and Leonardo DiCaprio, has significantly boosted Allbirds’ visibility and appeal.