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In a unique blend of fashion and food, CHEETOS Mac ‘N Cheese has teamed up with renowned designer and macramé artist, Coral Castillo, to create an exciting new line of footwear and accessories. This collaboration, known as the CHEETOS Mac ‘N Cheese x Coral Castillo MAC’ramé Collection, is set to make waves in the fashion industry with its bold and distinctive designs. The collection’s standout piece is undoubtedly the MAC-Top Sneakers. These shoes are a playful reinterpretation of Chester Cheetah’s signature apparel, featuring Castillo’s handmade macramé designs. The sneakers are lined with cheetah print on the insole and shoe tongue,…
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HOKA®, a division of Deckers Brands, announces the launch of the new Clifton 9, available today on HOKA.com and at select HOKA retailers worldwide. The ninth iteration of the award-winning Clifton franchise represents a substantial reimagining of HOKA’s beloved daily trainer, providing runners of all types the opportunity to enhance their daily mileage. The new Clifton 9 has shaved four grams of weight, while defying expectations by adding 3mm of stack height to enhance the shoe’s legendary light-and-plush ride. The revitalized underfoot experience stems from an all-new and responsive midsole foam and an improved outsole design. Doing away with overlays and hotmelts,…
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Crocs, a world leader in innovative casual footwear for women, men, and children, today announced its fourth quarter and full year 2022 financial results. Andrew Rees, Chief Executive Officer said: “Consumer demand for the Crocs and HEYDUDE brands has been exceptional, fueling record 2022 revenues for both brands at a combined $3.6 billion and top-tier adjusted operating margin of 28%,” he continued. “We anticipate another record year in 2023 with growth expected to be led by sandals and international for the Crocs Brand and increased US market penetration for HEYDUDE.” “Crocs, Inc. has industry-leading operating margins and generates robust cash flow…
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The Athlete’s Foot, a specialty footwear and lifestyle chain, just released its financial earnings for 2022, reporting retail revenue of $555M globally, growth of 10%+ from 2021. The numbers show that TAF successfully navigated a difficult retail environment plagued by supply chain challenges, rising inflation, socioeconomic and political unrest. The brand is looking forward to a solid and successful start to 2023 powered by a host of new brand partnerships, store locations and most importantly, the Spring launch of TAF’s 3.0 omnichannel store concept. Param Singh, owner, and CEO of Arklyz Group, which owns TAF globally, said: “Although the retail landscape…
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Confidence meets comfort in an exciting new footwear and apparel collaboration between Skechers and fashion industry icon, Diane von Furstenberg. Launching globally, Skechers x DVF is a celebration of effortless style and fashion-forward design that blends the designer’s signature prints and bold colors with the unparalleled comfort of Skechers. “As a woman on the go and a passionate hiker, I’m excited to launch our collaboration with Skechers, a leader in comfort innovation,” said Diane von Furstenberg. “This empowering offering is designed for those who push boundaries, challenge the norms and inspire others.” The Skechers collaboration with Diane von Furstenberg launches…
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Adidas announces Jenna Ortega will be joining Adidas ambassador endorsement deal. Ortega will be the face of a new Adidas collection that has not been announced yet. Most recently, she rose to mainstream stardom for her role as Wednesday Addams in the TV series Wednesday. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jenna Ortega (@jennaortega)
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Streetwear pioneer Karl Kani, renowned for shaping hip-hop fashion and breaking barriers as the first non-sportswear brand on NBA courts, is once again rewriting the playbook—this time at the intersection of sports, fashion, and youth culture. In a landmark move, Kani has signed state champion high school basketball phenom King Kendrick to a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal, in partnership with Overtime Sports Management Group (OSMG).
This signing marks the first time the Karl Kani brand has entered the NIL space, signaling a new chapter in how athlete identity is cultivated and expressed. Kani, who has been dubbed the “Godfather of Urban Streetwear,” built his reputation outfitting hip-hop legends and NBA stars, and now brings that legacy to the next generation of athletes.
King Kendrick, a standout point guard from Northland High School in Columbus, Ohio, is known for his fluid, ambidextrous style of play—a skill set that has already caught the attention of NBA All-Star Kyrie Irving. At a recent All-Star weekend press conference, Irving cited Kendrick by name, noting that the future of basketball will demand players who are truly ambidextrous to compete at the highest level.
The “90s Kid” Campaign: Where Sport Meets Culture
To launch the King x Kani partnership, the brand has produced the “90s Kid” campaign, enlisting celebrity photographer Carell Augustus—best known for his acclaimed “Black Hollywood” book project—to capture visuals that blend classic streetwear aesthetics with contemporary athleticism. Augustus’s work, celebrated for its positive representation of Black culture and reimagining of iconic moments, brings a fresh, culturally resonant lens to the campaign.
Karl Kani’s involvement in the partnership goes beyond traditional sponsorship. As investor, mentor, stylist, and creator, Kani is actively shaping the narrative around King Kendrick’s brand—mentoring the young athlete not only in fashion but in personal branding and cultural impact. This hands-on approach reflects Kani’s own journey from Brooklyn’s streets to international fashion stardom, and his commitment to empowering the next wave of talent.
This collaboration represents a shift in how athlete identity is built in the NIL era. By aligning with a designer whose influence transcends fashion and touches music, sport, and culture, King Kendrick’s partnership with Karl Kani sets a precedent for authentic, multidimensional athlete branding.
Cole Haan, the iconic American footwear and lifestyle brand, is set to launch a new era in its nearly century-long history by partnering with Catapult Group to introduce a performance apparel division. The exclusive agreement, announced today, will see the debut of Cole Haan Golf apparel globally in Spring 2026, with additional collections for racket sports and performance lifestyle to follow.
Cole Haan’s expansion into performance apparel marks a significant evolution for the brand, which has long been celebrated for combining innovation with timeless design. This move builds on its deep-rooted heritage in golf—dating back to co-founder Eddie Haan’s patented golf shoe innovations in the 1940s—and follows the brand’s successful re-entry into the golf footwear market in 2021.
Jack Boys, CEO of Cole Haan, emphasized the brand’s commitment to serving professionals and enthusiasts who live a “24/7 lifestyle—from the back nine to the corner office and everywhere in between.” Boys noted that the partnership with Catapult Group brings together Cole Haan’s design legacy and Catapult’s operational expertise to deliver products at the intersection of style and performance.
Scott Davis, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in global fashion and golf brands, will lead the initiative as President of Cole Haan Golf at Catapult. Davis, a longtime PGA professional, expressed pride in stewarding a brand “celebrated for nearly a century of craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless American style.” He highlighted the new golf apparel collection’s aim to merge performance with sophistication, extending Cole Haan’s legacy and meeting the evolving needs of today’s athletes.
The partnership leverages Catapult Group’s comprehensive growth platform, encompassing product development, production, merchandising, marketing, and sales across the golf and sports marketplaces. The forthcoming apparel line will offer sophisticated, versatile lifestyle pieces designed to transition seamlessly from work to sport to leisure, reflecting Cole Haan’s commitment to democratizing performance innovation.
Having already established a presence in golf, running, and tennis footwear, Cole Haan’s move into performance apparel underscores its dedication to offering technically advanced, style-forward products for consumers who are always on the move.
Cole Haan Golf Apparel will be available globally starting Spring 2026, signaling a bold new chapter for the brand and expanding its reach to new consumers through premium, versatile products and targeted distribution channels.
In a striking display of creative ambition, Swiss sportswear innovator On and global icon Zendaya have launched “Zone Dreamers,” their most daring campaign yet and the latest milestone in their ongoing partnership.
A Cinematic Leap for Sportswear
For the first time, On brings its brand universe to life through the lens of a fictional film trailer, directed by acclaimed visual artist Nadia Lee Cohen and styled by fashion luminary Law Roach. The campaign explores the emotional power of movement and the unique confidence that emerges from moving together. “Zone Dreamers” underscores On’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling and forging deeper cultural connections.
A Surreal Journey Led by Zendaya
Set in a dreamlike, cinematic world, Zendaya stars as a protagonist journeying through space, supported by a close-knit crew. Together, they move, train, and explore new worlds, discovering that confidence is not only an internal force but also something strengthened by community. The campaign’s fictional film trailer blends otherworldly storytelling and stylized detail, delivering a genre-bending take on fashion, performance, and friendship.
The visual narrative is elevated by custom-designed spacesuits from Law Roach and avant-garde jewelry by Chris Habana, infusing the campaign with a retro-futuristic edge that blurs the line between fashion and fantasy.
“Zone Dreamers was such a joy to create,” said Zendaya. “I’ve loved working with On to bring something so creative and unexpected to life. Teaming up with Nadia for the first time brought such a unique energy to the set, and collaborating with Law — as always — made the experience even more special. This campaign is about courage, friendship, and the kind of trust that gives you the freedom to step outside your comfort zone and try something new.”
New Icons: Cloudzone and Studio Knit Bodysuit
The campaign introduces two standout products:
Cloudzone: On’s latest lifestyle sneaker, featuring CloudTec® cushioning for ultra-soft movement and minimalist style.
Studio Knit Bodysuit: A seamless, sculpting one-piece designed for fluid motion, comfort, and quiet confidence.
Zendaya showcases three signature looks, including the Studio Knit Bodysuit in Caper with the Cloudzone in Ice/Black, and a variety of other performance and lifestyle pieces in a palette of Caper, Rock, Glacier, Ivory, Coral, Malibu, Pearl, and Ice.
A New Chapter in Fashion Storytelling
“Zone Dreamers” launched globally on April 15, 2025, with the Cloudzone sneaker and Spring/Summer 2025 Movement Lifestyle collection now available at On’s website, flagship stores, and select retailers worldwide.
Two of the world’s most iconic brands, NIKE, Inc. and the LEGO Group, have unveiled a groundbreaking multi-year partnership aimed at inspiring kids and families through the fusion of sport and creative play. This collaboration will see the launch of co-branded products, content, and experiences starting next year, designed to unlock new opportunities for children worldwide.
Both NIKE and LEGO have long histories of advocating for children’s right to play, recognizing that both creative and physical activities are essential for healthy development. Their joint initiative is rooted in the belief that fostering creativity and movement helps children build key life skills and reach their full potential.
“At Nike, we believe in the power of sport to move the world forward, and that starts with kids,” said Cal Dowers, VP, Global Kids at Nike. “We’re committed to creating a more accessible and inclusive future that inspires kids of all ages and abilities to be more active. Together, with the LEGO Group, we’re excited to invite all kids into a new vision of sport and creative play.”
A recent LEGO Group study highlights the urgency of this mission: one-third of children globally experience less than three hours of playtime per week, while the World Health Organization reports that only one in five kids receives the recommended amount of physical activity. Additionally, 59% of parents surveyed by LEGO worry that their children lack sufficient access to play and fun activities.
The partnership will also feature unique visual storytelling, as seen in a newly released digital animation. At its center is a LEGO Minifigure head with a Nike Swoosh smile, surrounded by symbols from both brands—such as the orange Nike shoebox, waffle outsole, LEGO bricks, and Minifigures—alongside shared icons like the duck (a nod to both LEGO’s first product and Nike’s Oregon roots), the Pegasus horse, and the G.O.A.T., referencing Nike’s legendary athletes.
Nike’s involvement builds on its ongoing efforts to break down barriers for youth participation in sport, particularly for girls, by focusing on quality coaching, increased access, and tackling societal obstacles. The LEGO Group, meanwhile, continues its mission to develop the builders of tomorrow by harnessing the power of play.
“By combining the creativity of LEGO play with the energy and passion of sport, we want to inspire new ways for kids to play and be creative,” said Alero Akuya, VP of Brand Development at the LEGO Group. “We are excited to partner with NIKE, Inc. on this journey and help reimagine how creative play and sport can unite. Together, we will create unique experiences that will engage and excite kids around the world, inspiring them to explore their imaginations.”
With this partnership, NIKE and the LEGO Group are set to redefine the boundaries of play and sport, creating inclusive, innovative experiences for the next generation.
More information and updates will be available at nike.com/lego and lego.com/nike as the partnership unfolds.
Perfect Game, the world’s largest youth baseball and softball platform and scouting service, has announced a landmark multi-year partnership with SQAIRZ, the performance footwear brand trusted by athletes at every level of baseball. This collaboration is set to redefine the standards for youth baseball footwear by integrating science-backed innovation, injury prevention, and on-field performance into the heart of the amateur game.
Under the new agreement, SQAIRZ becomes the Official Footwear Partner of Perfect Game, aligning two leaders in youth sports development. The partnership’s core mission is to support the next generation of baseball talent with footwear that not only looks bold but is proven to deliver measurable results on the field.
A highlight of the collaboration will be the launch of an exclusive co-branded colorway of the SQAIRZ GFP™ baseball cleat in fall 2025. This special edition will combine Perfect Game’s iconic branding with SQAIRZ’s performance-first design, giving players a unique option that stands out both visually and functionally.
“This partnership is about the players,” said Bob Winskowicz, Founder & CEO of SQAIRZ. “Perfect Game has built one of the most impactful platforms in youth baseball, and we’re proud to support these athletes with footwear that’s proven to enhance balance, increase ground force production, and boost throwing and swing velocity—all while reducing the risk of injury. These players are chasing big dreams, and we’re here to help them compete with confidence and stay healthy doing it.”
Science-Backed Performance: Real Results on the Diamond
SQAIRZ cleats are engineered with features that address the specific needs of baseball athletes:
Patented Roomier Toe Box: Allows toes to spread naturally, improving balance and ground connection.
Smart Traction™ Outsole: Provides superior grip and stability on both grass and turf, enhancing energy transfer and reducing slippage.
Biomechanically Tested Design: Independent studies show athletes wearing SQAIRZ cleats experience a 2.6 MPH increase in throwing velocity and a 2.0 MPH boost in exit velocity, thanks to improved balance and more efficient energy transfer from the ground up.
Injury Prevention: The cleats are designed to reduce stress on joints and soft tissue, helping mitigate overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis and supporting better lower body mechanics that may lower the risk of serious injuries such as Tommy John surgery.
Elevating the Player Experience
The partnership extends beyond just footwear. SQAIRZ will be integrated into key Perfect Game events and programs nationwide, providing:
On-site Experiences: Players will have opportunities to try SQAIRZ cleats in hitting bays and training zones at select tournaments and showcases, experiencing the performance difference in real time.
Educational Content: Athletes and coaches will access resources on how proper footwear impacts movement, injury prevention, and overall development.
Exclusive Access: Players will benefit from athlete-only discounts, early access to new innovations, and co-branded releases designed specifically for the Perfect Game community
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“At Perfect Game, we’re committed to helping athletes learn, grow, and reach their full potential by providing access to the best tools and opportunities in the sport,” said Rob Ponger, CEO of Perfect Game. “Partnering with SQAIRZ ensures our players are equipped with footwear that’s backed by innovation and built to deliver a real performance advantage.”6
What’s Next?
The exclusive Perfect Game x SQAIRZ GFP™ colorway is set to launch in fall 2025, with more details to be announced ahead of the release. In the meantime, SQAIRZ’s full lineup of baseball and softball cleats—available in molded, metal, and turf options and in sizes for men, women, and youth—can be found online and at select retailers6.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in youth baseball, ensuring that the next generation of athletes has access to the same performance-driven technology as the pros, all while prioritizing health, safety, and development on the field8.
Daniel Shemtob’s journey from acclaimed chef to footwear innovator is rooted in the relentless pace and physical demands of kitchen life. As the founder ofThe Lime Truck and a winner on Food Network’s “The Great Food Truck Race,” Shemtob spent countless hours on his feet, often frustrated by the lack of durable, comfortable, and stylish shoes built for the rigors of professional kitchens. In 2015, after repeatedly wearing out traditional work shoes and enduring discomfort, Shemtob set out to create a solution that would benefit not only chefs but anyone who spends long hours standing. But it wasn’t just about launching a footwear brand, there was a real need to solve a problem. Teaming up with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jason Snibbe and business partner Haik Zadoyan, Shemtob launched Snibbs in Los Angeles in 2020, determined to fill the void with a best-in-class work shoe.Snibbs is truly a brand that was built out of necessity, not just for the worker but for the industry.
The Hedley & Bennett Collaboration: Function Meets Style
Snibbs’ commitment to quality and functionality found a natural partner inHedley & Bennett, the Los Angeles-based kitchen and lifestyle brand renowned for its chef-grade aprons. TheSnibbs x Hedley & Bennett Orbit SE marks the first-ever footwear collaboration together, blending Snibbs’ expertise in slip-resistant, vegan, and recycled materials with Hedley & Bennett’s bold design sensibility. The result is a lightweight, breathable sneaker built to withstand the demands of a busy kitchen while offering all-day comfort and style.
Supporting LA Wildfire Relief: Footwear with Purpose
Beyond innovative design, the Snibbs x Hedley & Bennett collaboration stands out for its deep commitment to community support. Both Shemtob and Hedley & Bennett founder Ellen Bennett experienced personal loss during the devastating Palisades and Eaton wildfires-Shemtob lost his home, while Bennett’s mother lost hers. In response, the two brands have mobilized to aid those affected, donating a portion of proceeds from the Orbit SE to Restaurants Care—a non-profit which offers direct assistance to food and beverage workers who have lost their homes, jobs, and stability amidst the wildfires.
Snibbs also provided free shoes and meals at distribution points across Los Angeles, while both brands have donated kitchen gear and footwear to local caterers feeding firefighters and displaced residents. Through initiatives like theSnibbs Community Funding Program, Snibbs will provide up to $500 plus a free pair of Snibbs footwear to applicants who are in need within our communities, further reinforcing its mission to support the culinary and hospitality communities.
Daniel Shemtob’s vision for Snibbs extends far beyond footwear and truly embodies his ethos of elevating the worker. By prioritizing sustainability, functionality, and social responsibility, Snibbs and its collaborators are redefining what it means to serve the industry-one pair of shoes at a time. The Hedley & Bennett partnership is a testament to Shemtob’s belief that great design and community support can go hand in hand, leaving a positive impact on both the kitchen floor and the city of Los Angeles.
The global athletic footwear market, valued at $125.98 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a 3.76%–6.86% CAGR through 2033, driven by rising health consciousness, sports participation, and the fusion of performance and lifestyle trends (IMARC Group, Mordor Intelligence). Leading brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma are leveraging advanced technologies, sustainability initiatives, and strategic partnerships to maintain dominance in this competitive landscape.
Top 10 Leading Companies in the Athletic Footwear Industry (2025)
The Four Forces Shaping the Future of Athletic Footwear
The athletic footwear industry is sprinting into a new era, propelled by four transformative drivers that are redefining what consumers expect from their kicks. From eco-conscious innovation to the rise of smart shoes, global market shifts, and the enduring appeal of athleisure, here’s how brands are lacing up for the future.
Sustainability is no longer a niche concern—it’s the new baseline. A majority of global consumers now prioritize eco-friendly products, putting unprecedented pressure on brands to embrace circular practices. Adidas is setting the pace, aiming for nearly all recycled polyester in its footwear by 2025 and targeting significant reductions in carbon intensity as part of a broader net-zero ambition. Nike’s “Move to Zero” initiative is equally ambitious, with commitments to renewable energy and supply chain carbon cuts.
But it’s not just the giants making waves. Allbirds’ Plant Pacer sneaker, featuring plastic-free plant leather and sugarcane-based midsoles, exemplifies the innovation happening at the boutique level. Veja, meanwhile, continues to champion Amazonian rubber and organic cotton, proving that transparency and material provenance resonate with today’s climate-conscious consumer.
Smart Footwear Revolution: Sneakers Get Connected
Tech is stepping into every stride. Sensor-equipped shoes now account for a significant share of premium segment sales, a testament to the growing appetite for performance analytics and personalized training. Nike’s Adapt series, with its self-lacing technology and app-based fit customization, is a standout, while Under Armour’s HOVR Phantom line tracks stride efficiency and offers a plush, energy-returning ride.
These innovations aren’t just about wow-factor—they’re sticky. Brands offering connected ecosystems see much higher customer retention rates, as users become invested in real-time feedback and tailored coaching. The global smart footwear market is on a steep growth trajectory, with technology becoming a must-have feature for many athletes and enthusiasts.
Asia-Pacific Dominance: The New Powerhouse
Asia-Pacific is the industry’s growth engine, boasting rapid expansion. China alone is expected to spend billions on athletic footwear, while India’s sports participation is climbing steadily each year. Fast-fashion giant Shein is muscling in with a massive athletic line, targeting Gen Z’s hunger for affordable, on-trend performance wear and challenging established players like Li-Ning and Anta.
Athleisure Evolution: Where Performance Meets Lifestyle
Versatility is king. Running shoes now represent a significant portion of all athletic footwear sales, as consumers seek models that transition seamlessly from gym to street. ASICS’ GEL-KAYANO and New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 1080 exemplify this trend, blurring the boundaries between performance and lifestyle with tech-forward comfort and eco-friendly credentials.
Strategic Developments: How Brands Are Staying Ahead
Nike’s Cultural Resonance: The “Short a Guy” campaign, blending humor and social commentary, has helped Nike achieve the highest brand awareness rate in the U.S. Augmented reality try-ons have reduced returns and boosted online conversions.
EU Manufacturing Wars: Adidas’ Detroit Speedfactory leverages 3D printing to slash lead times, while Puma’s HYROX partnership targets Europe’s booming functional fitness market.
Retro Revival: Heritage lines are back, with ASICS’ GT-2160 and New Balance’s 574 Legacy driving impressive revenue growth, fueled by millennial nostalgia and high-profile marathon sponsorships.
Challenges on the Horizon
Quality vs. Speed: Fast fashion’s high return rate—triple that of premium brands—has forced companies like Skechers to invest in AI-driven quality control, but the industry still faces major costs balancing speed with durability.
Regulatory Complexity: The EU’s new Digital Services Act mandates full supply-chain transparency, with compliance costs expected to rise for smaller brands, potentially driving consolidation.
Material Volatility: A surge in rubber prices is squeezing margins, especially in price-sensitive markets like India and Brazil.
The Road Ahead
With the global athletic footwear market projected to hit new highs in the coming years, the race is on. Expect continued innovation in materials—think 3D-printed midsoles and closed-loop recycling—as brands vie for leadership where performance meets personalization.
“The future of footwear lies where performance meets personalization.”
— John Donahoe, CEO, Nike
The footwear world is witnessing a seismic shift as Vivobarefoot unveils the VIVOBIOME Tabi Gen 01 Sandal—a product that fuses ancient Japanese inspiration with cutting-edge technology and sustainability. For style editors, sneakerheads, and minimalist footwear aficionados, welcome the scan-to-print sandals.
At the heart of the Tabi Gen 01 is Vivobarefoot’s radical scan-to-print platform. Unlike traditional footwear, which is mass-produced and sized generically, each Tabi is crafted from a precise 3D scan of the wearer’s feet. This process captures every contour, arch, and splay, creating a sandal that fits like a second skin—no more compromise, no more adjustment straps.
The in-store scanning experience (currently available in London and Bristol) generates a digital blueprint, which is then used to 3D-print the sandal on demand. This additive manufacturing approach eliminates material waste, sidesteps overproduction, and ensures every pair is as unique as its owner.
The Tabi Gen 01 draws on the iconic split-toe (tabi) silhouette, a nod to 15th-century Japanese footwear that prioritized natural movement and balance. Vivobarefoot’s modern interpretation leverages this design to amplify ground feel, encourage toe splay, and promote a healthy, barefoot gait. The zero-drop sole and minimalist construction further support natural biomechanics, making each step a celebration of foot health.
Available in earthy tones like Obsidian Black, Mineral Grey, Forest Green, and Earth Brown, the Tabi Gen 01’s aesthetic is understated yet unmistakably modern.
Vivobarefoot’s partnership with material innovators brings BioCir to the table—a flexible, industrially compostable, and recyclable thermoplastic elastomer. This material is not only durable and weatherproof but also designed to biodegrade at the end of its lifecycle, closing the loop on environmental responsibility. By producing only what is needed, Vivobarefoot’s circular manufacturing model slashes the environmental impact of unsold inventory and sizing errors, setting a new benchmark for sustainable footwear production.
Despite its featherweight build and barefoot ethos, the Tabi Gen 01 doesn’t skimp on performance. The treaded BioCir outsole offers reliable traction for both urban and light trail environments. The split-toe design, inspired by both tradition and biomechanics, provides a stable platform for dynamic movement—ideal for those who demand versatility from their summer footwear.
The debut run is capped at just 590 pairs, making the Tabi Gen 01 not only a technical marvel but also a collector’s item. Early adopters gain exclusive access to Vivobarefoot’s Barefoot Fundamentals course, future product drops, and behind-the-scenes content, cementing their place at the forefront of the barefoot movement.
By merging hyper-personalized fit, eco-conscious materials, and a design language rooted in both heritage and innovation, Vivobarefoot is redefining what it means to walk in your own shoes.
Tennis icon and entrepreneur Venus Williams has taken her advocacy for health to new heights, joining forces with WeWard—the gamified walking app boasting over 20 million users—as both investor and ambassador. Announced on February 26, 2025, this high-profile partnership aims to tackle the global crisis of physical inactivity, leveraging Williams’ influence to inspire millions to move more and live healthier lives.
Central to the collaboration is a philanthropic push. WeWard has pledged $25,000 to CARE, Williams’ chosen nonprofit focused on poverty alleviation, with an additional $15,000 unlocked if users collectively achieve step goals during the month-long Venus Williams Championship in-app campaign. This initiative not only incentivizes walking but also channels collective movement into tangible social impact.
WeWard’s app transforms walking into a rewarding experience through a robust suite of gamified features. Users can earn Garmin watches, sports event tickets, and gift cards by completing walking challenges. The app’s Pokémon Go-inspired “WeCards”—with 6.5 million collected daily—and competitive leaderboards keep engagement high. Williams herself emphasized the app’s accessibility, stating, “With WeWard, walking becomes a fun, rewarding experience… It’s about taking that first step toward a healthier lifestyle.”
The urgency of this campaign is underscored by sobering statistics. Thirty-one percent of adults and eighty percent of adolescents globally fail to meet World Health Organization physical activity guidelines. Americans average just 5,000 to 6,500 daily steps, falling short of the recommended 10,000 and lagging behind countries like France and Japan. In contrast, WeWard users boost their walking by 25% on average, collectively saving 600,000 tons of CO₂ through reduced vehicle use. WeWard CEO Yves Benchimol calls sedentary lifestyles “a pandemic,” positioning the app’s mission as making movement rewarding for all.
Since its U.S. launch in 2023, WeWard has already achieved 1 million downloads, eyeing a share of a fitness app market projected to reach $55 billion by 2028. The app distinguishes itself by offering cash rewards—over $20 million paid out to users—alongside gifts and charity donations. Its partnerships with major brands like Nike, Adidas, Amazon, and Netflix enhance its appeal and reward ecosystem. Leveraging celebrity influence, Williams’ endorsement and her new wellness book, STRIVE, amplify the app’s reach and credibility.
Venus Williams brings more than star power—she’s a committed wellness entrepreneur and philanthropist. Her Bam, Books and Brotherhood Foundation builds fitness centers and supports education. She has invested in tech-driven health solutions, including social investing and substance abuse care platforms. This partnership with WeWard aligns with her broader legacy of empowering communities through health, opportunity, and innovation.
As fitness apps vie for dominance, WeWard’s gamified, reward-driven model—now supercharged by Williams’ global influence—stands out as a catalyst for change. By making walking fun, competitive, and socially impactful, the partnership is poised to turn a daily habit into a worldwide movement for better health and social good.
“A large part of staying well and active is simply by moving your body whichever way you can, and with WeWard, walking becomes a fun and rewarding experience. I’m excited to be part of a movement that encourages people to take that first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle,” Williams shared.
With Williams leading the charge, WeWard is not just counting steps—it’s counting on a healthier, more connected future.
If you’re serious about outdoor footwear, you know how rare it is for a sandal to truly surprise you. After years of testing gear, I’ve seen plenty of “new” releases that barely move the needle. That’s why the Tread Labs Redway Sandal immediately caught our attention.
We’ve tested dozens of adventure sandals this season, but the Redway stands apart in both design innovation and practical performance. Designed by Mark Paigen-the same mind behind the original Chaco-this sandal promises a genuine leap forward in comfort, support, and sustainability. In this review, I’ll break down how the Redway performs where it matters most: on your feet, out in the real world.
The Origin of Tread Labs
Footwear Editor Photo
Tread Labs is the brainchild of Mark Paigen, a pioneering figure in the outdoor footwear industry and the original inventor of Chaco sandals. Mark has always believed exceptional footwear can change lives. He’s been in the footwear industry for over 30 years, working with podiatrists, pedorthists, foot care experts, and footwear makers. After Chaco sold in 2009, Mark ultimately started Tread Labs to continue transforming people’s footwear so they can walk better, feel better, live better.
“We’ve seen countless iterations of outdoor sandals come through our testing lab. What makes the Redway exceptional is how it addresses longstanding pain points while introducing genuinely useful innovations.”
With the Redway, Paigen and his team have leveraged over three decades of expertise to address the evolving needs of outdoor enthusiasts. This legacy is evident in every aspect of the Redway’s design, which reflects a deep understanding of both the technical and practical demands placed on adventure footwear.
Forest Green Performance
The anatomical footbed is designed to support your arches, making a significant difference on long days. Your feet feel stable and less fatigued, even after hours of walking or hiking. Based on Tread Labs’ 26•33 ARCHitecture to support each of the 26 bones and 33 joints in the foot, improving alignment throughout your body.
The best method to find your arch height is to get the bottoms of your feet wet and step onto a surface where you can see the footprint. This will indicate the proper support for your foot. You don’t want an arch that’s too aggressive and you also don’t want one that’s too low. Then, compare the footprint to this Tread Labs chart here.
Tread Labs’ insole technology enhances arch support, so if you’re accustomed to flat sandals that leave your feet sore, you’ll notice the improvement right away. The microfiber suede footbed feels soft and cool against your skin, and it’s treated to resist odors, so your sandals stay fresh even after hot days or water adventures.
This material also helps wick away moisture, keeping your feet dry and comfortable, whether you’re crossing streams or just dealing with summer heat.
Standout Features That Matter
Footwear Editor Photo
During all-day wear testing, we noticed reduced fatigue compared to conventional sandals. The arch support distributes pressure evenly, preventing hot spots even during extended hikes.
“The 3D-knitted uppers are flexible and breathable, hugging your foot without causing hot spots or rubbing while walking. The unbreakable aluminum buckles remain our favorite hardware feature. Low-profile and non-slip, they remained secure during testing, even on uneven terrain or during rapid movements.”
Made from recycled polyester, they’re lightweight and dry quickly after getting wet, which is perfect for river crossings or unexpected rain.
Solving Slippery Sandals
Footwear Editor Photo
Perhaps most impressive is how the Redway addresses a universal complaint with sport sandals. Traditional models become soggy and uncomfortable when wet, often leading to slipping and blisters.
“We’ve tested hundreds of sandals over the years, and moisture management is where most fail,” our editor explains. “The Redway’s ability to remain comfortable when wet and dry quickly represents a genuine advancement in design.”
The Redway’s microfiber suede footbed with antimicrobial treatment actively dissipates moisture, keeping feet remarkably dry even in hot weather. After deliberate testing in creek crossings, we found the sandals dried quickly and never developed the notorious “wet sandal smell.”
Underfoot, the ultra-lightweight polyurethane midsole provides a cushioned feel similar to EVA foam, but with significantly improved durability, offering both comfort and long-lasting support.
All these features come together to make the Redway Sandals an excellent choice for anyone who wants reliable comfort, support, and versatility, whether you’re out for a hike, running errands, or traveling somewhere new.
Our Verdict
After extensive testing across multiple environments, we’re confident in declaring the Tread Labs Men’s Redway Sandal in Forest a new benchmark in outdoor footwear—and worth the $130.00 price.
What ultimately impressed us most was how thoughtfully every element addresses real-world problems that outdoor enthusiasts face. For anyone seeking a premium adventure sandal that will perform reliably season after season, the Redway represents an investment in both comfort and sustainability that few competitors can match.
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