Footwear Magazine Awards 2023 Winners
As the curtain falls on another year, the fashion industry’s gaze turns to accolades celebrating the pinnacle of design and innovation. The Footwear Magazine Awards (FMAs) are excited to reveal the distinguished winners comprised of timeless classics and trailblazers shaping the future of footwear.
“Each year, the Footwear Magazine Awards aim to spotlight the exceptional work of individuals and companies who are shaping fashion trends and addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our industry, such as sustainability and technological innovation,” said Jeanel Alvarado, Publisher. We congratulate this year’s winners for their inspiring accomplishments and dedication to excellence.”
The winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges comprised of designers, retailers, and industry analysts, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment across all categories. This year’s award categories highlight the footwear industry’s dynamic nature and showcase our honorees’ diverse achievements.
Alyssa J. Habchi, Fashion & Style Editor: “Our heartfelt thanks go out to each amazing participant and to every judge who poured their energy and keen insight into this event. The journey has its hurdles, yet the joy of delving into such thrilling designs makes it all worthwhile. With eager anticipation, we count down to March 1, 2024, when we’ll come together again for the 2nd Annual Footwear Magazine Awards, ready to create more unforgettable moments.”
Join us as we step into the spotlight with the winners. So, lace up your most stylish pair and let’s stride through the highlights of an award ceremony dedicated to the artistry and achievements of the footwear industry’s finest.
2023 award winners for this year are:
Women’s Footwear Brand of the Year
Birdies emerge as the Women’s Footwear Brand of the Year, a recognition of their innovative fusion of style and comfort. Known for their slipper-like feel with a fashionable twist, Birdies has redefined what it means to be comfortable in one’s shoes. Their success lies in their ability to craft shoes that women can wear confidently on various occasions without compromising comfort.
Winner: Birdies
Men’s Footwear Brand of the Year
Birkenstock has been named Men’s Footwear Brand of the Year for their signature cork footbeds and premium materials, Birkenstock sandals have stood the test of time and have become a shoe icon. The brand’s ethos of sustainability and comfort continues to resonate with consumers who value both the heritage and the forward-thinking approach to footwear.
Winner: Birkenstock
Independent Footwear Designer of The Year
Elizée’s recognition as the Independent Footwear Designer of the Year is a nod to the brand’s exquisite attention to detail and dedication to luxury. In an industry where mass production often overshadows individual artistry, Elizée stands out for its commitment to handcrafted excellence. This award from Footwear Magazine acknowledges Elizée’s ability to capture the essence of classic footwear while infusing it with modern sensibilities.
Winner: Elizée
Emerging Footwear Designer of the Year
Novella’s approach to footwear is characterized by a willingness to experiment and a vision that challenges traditional aesthetics. This award recognizes the brand’s early achievements and the excitement surrounding its potential to innovate and inspire within the footwear industry. Novella is a brand to watch in the coming years.
Winner: Novella
Designer Footwear Brand of the Year
Andrea Wazen has been honored with the Designer Footwear Brand of the Year award, a distinction that celebrates the brand’s exceptional artistry and innovative designs. Andrea Wazen is known for its bespoke, handcrafted shoes that have graced the feet of celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike. The brand’s distinctive style, which often features transparent materials and bold silhouettes, has set it apart in the luxury footwear market.
Winner: Andrea Wazen
Footwear Retailer of the Year
Road Runner Sports has earned the title Footwear Retailer of the Year, highlighting its success as a leading destination for athletic footwear. With a focus on providing personalized service and an extensive selection of running shoes, Road Runner Sports caters to casual joggers and professional athletes. Their dedication to helping customers find the perfect fit through advanced fitting technology and knowledgeable staff has made them a trusted name in the industry.
Winner: Road Runner Sports
Best Shoe Design of the Year
Saysh stands out this year with the Best Shoe Design of the Year award, having captured attention with new visually striking designs thoughtfully engineered for performance. The brand’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, particularly for women in sports, is reflected in its shoe designs that aim to meet the specific needs of female athletes.
Winner: Saysh
Best New Brand
ARNE, a UK brand is this year’s Best New Brand for their impressive expansion into the competitive US footwear market. ARNE’s philosophy revolves around creating versatile, high-quality shoes that cater to the modern lifestyle. Their rise to prominence suggests a keen understanding of current trends and consumer desires.
Winner: ARNE *Expanded to U.S. in 2023
Running Brand of the Year
HOKA has been declared the Running Brand of the Year, a tribute to its innovative approach to running shoes that combine performance with comfort. Known for their oversized midsoles and lightweight construction, HOKA shoes have gained a loyal following among runners seeking cushioning and support without the bulk. This award reflects the brand’s success in enhancing the running experience through technology-driven design and a commitment to improving athletic performance.
Winner: HOKA
Sustainable Footwear Brand of the Year
Poppy Barley’s has been selected as the Sustainable Footwear Brand of the Year for their leadership in ethical manufacturing and eco-friendly practices. The brand’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its use of responsibly sourced materials and transparent production processes. Poppy Barley sets a standard for how footwear companies can operate conscientiously without compromising style or quality.
Winner: Poppy Barley
Best Winter Boots of the Year
Baffin takes home the Best Winter Boots of the Year award, solidifying their reputation for creating boots that withstand extreme cold and rugged conditions. Their shoes are engineered with advanced insulation technologies and durable materials to provide superior warmth and protection. This accolade acknowledges Baffin’s expertise in designing winter footwear that offers functionality and reliability for those braving harsh winter environments.
Winner: Baffin
Best Hiking Boots of the Year
Hi-Tec has earned the Best Hiking Boots of the Year title, celebrating their excellence in outdoor footwear. Hi-Tec hiking boots are designed with the adventurer in mind, offering durability, comfort, and traction for various terrains. The brand’s focus on developing boots that support the natural movement of the foot while ensuring stability on trails has made them a favorite among hikers
Winner: Hi-Tec
Best Slippers of the Year
Mahabis has been awarded the Best Slippers of the Year, distinguishing itself with a modern take on the classic slipper. The brand’s design philosophy centers on simplicity and functionality, offering slippers that are not only comfortable but also versatile enough for indoor and outdoor use. Their innovative detachable sole system and sleek aesthetic have redefined the concept of loungewear.
Winner: Mahabis
Most Innovative Footwear of the Year
Pashion stands out as the Most Innovative Footwear of the Year, an accolade that honors its pioneering work in adaptable footwear. Pashion is known for its convertible heels, which ingeniously transform from high heels to flats with a simple mechanism. Footwear Magazine’s award acknowledges Pashion’s success in merging style with practicality, offering a solution that empowers wearers to adapt their shoes to their changing needs.
Winner: Pashion
Best Cowboy Boots of the Year
Alvies has earned the title of Best Cowboy Boots of the Year, a nod to their excellence in quality and tradition in crafting classic Western boots. With a focus on handcrafted details and premium materials, Alvies boots embody the spirit of the American West while incorporating contemporary design elements. This award from Footwear Magazine recognizes Alvies’ dedication to preserving the heritage of cowboy boots while ensuring they remain relevant and appealing in today’s footwear landscape.
Winner: Alvies
Best Performance Sneakers of the Year
APL (Athletic Propulsion Labs) has won the Best Performance Sneakers of the Year award for excellence in its cutting-edge technology with sleek sneaker design. APL sneakers are celebrated for their Propelium® cushioning and energy return, enhancing athletic performance across various sports. This recognition indicates APL’s commitment to innovation and its ability to meet the high demands of athletes seeking functionality and style in their footwear.
Winner: APL
Best Walking Shoes of the Year
KLAW Footwear has been named the Best Walking Shoes of the Year, an accolade highlighting their ergonomic design and comfort focus. KLAW’s walking shoes are engineered to support the natural gait cycle, providing cushioning and stability for everyday wearers and avid walkers alike. The brand’s dedication to foot health and its success in creating a shoe that delivers comfort without compromising aesthetics sets them apart in the category of walking shoes.
Winner: KLAW Footwear
Best Clogs of the Year
Taos Footwear is titled Best Clogs of the Year, celebrating their mastery in crafting clogs that offer both style and support. Known for their signature Curves & Pods® footbeds, Taos clogs provide arch support and cushioning, making them suitable for all-day wear. The brand’s variety of classic to contemporary designs ensures a pair of Taos clogs for every taste. This award acknowledges Taos’ ability to elevate the humble clog into a fashionable and functional piece of footwear.
Winner: Taos
Best Rain Boots of the Year
Kamik earns the Best Rain Boots of the Year award, solidifying its status as a waterproof and weather-resistant footwear leader. Kamik’s rain boots are designed with practicality, featuring durable materials and construction that keep feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions. Their commitment to sustainability, with many recyclable boots, further enhances their appeal.
Winner: Kamik
Best High Heels of the Year
Enrico Cuini stands out in the luxury shoe market for incorporating advanced technology and engineering into made-to-order shoe making, ensuring that style is matched by comfort. With a reputation for redefining high heels through the use of patented technology, the brand aims to deliver not just aesthetic appeal but also an enhanced wearing experience
Winner: Enrico Cuini
Best Flats of the Year
Yosi Samra has been awarded Best Flats of the Year for the brand’s innovative designs allowing for convenience and versatility, catering to the on-the-go lifestyle of modern women. With various colors and textures, Yosi Samra flats have become a staple for those seeking practicality without sacrificing elegance. This award from Footwear Magazine celebrates the brand’s commitment to providing chic, portable footwear solutions.
Winner: Yosi Samra
Most Comfortable Shoes of the Year
KURU Footwear is titled Most Comfortable Shoes of the Year, highlighting their focus on orthopedic innovation to alleviate foot pain. KURU’s patented KURUSOLE technology is designed to hug the heels and provide superior arch support, making their shoes a favorite for individuals with foot issues or standing for long periods.
Winner: KURU footwear
Vegan Brand of the Year
Voes & Co.: Voes & Co. has been named Vegan Brand of the Year, an honor that reflects their commitment to cruelty-free and sustainable shoe production. The brand’s use of high-quality vegan materials ensures that no animals are harmed while also considering environmental impact. Their stylish and ethical footwear options resonate with consumers’ conscious about animal welfare and the planet.
Winner: Voes & Co.
Best Sustainable Boots of the Year
Seres Footwear has earned the Best Sustainable Boots of the Year award, solidifying its position as a leader in eco-friendly footwear. Their boots are crafted with a focus on reducing environmental impact through the use of recycled and sustainable materials. The brand’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond materials to include ethical manufacturing processes. This award from Footwear Magazine recognizes Seres Footwear’s efforts to create durable and stylish boots th
Winner: Seres Footwear
Unisex Footwear Brand of the Year
PerryCo. has won the Unisex Footwear Brand of the Year award, celebrating its inclusive approach to shoe design. The brand’s unisex collections challenge traditional gender norms by offering versatile styles that appeal to all, regardless of gender identity. PerryCo.’s success lies in its ability to create footwear that transcends boundaries, offering comfort and style in universally wearable designs.
Winner: PerryCo.
Footwear Program of the Year
SNEAKERLAW has been recognized as the Footwear Program of the Year, an accolade that honors their educational initiative within the sneaker industry. As a program that combines legal education with sneaker culture, SNEAKERLAW provides valuable insights into the footwear world’s business, legal, and creative aspects. This award from Footwear Magazine acknowledges the importance of SNEAKERLAW’s role in shaping informed professionals and students who can better navigate the complexities of the footwear industry.
Winner: SNEAKERLAW
About Footwear Magazine
Footwear Magazine is a leading publication in the fashion industry, offering readers in-depth coverage of the latest trends, designs, and business developments in footwear around the globe. Footwear Magazine remains at the forefront of bringing insightful commentary and analysis to professionals and enthusiasts alike.
