Circana: Running Styles, Clogs and High-Shaft Boots Dominated in Q4

New data from Circana shows that running, running-inspired lifestyle shoes, mules/clogs, and high-shaft boots dominated footwear sales in the fourth quarter.

For the period, U.S. footwear industry dollar sales rose 2 percent even though the number of units sold saw a decline, according to Circana’s Consumer Tracking Service. The big reason sales rose was due to an increase in average prices, which were up 8 percent. Also contributing to the increase in overall dollars was the more premium-leaning product mix during the holiday season, Circana said.

“Despite uncertainties stemming from tariffs and other economic circumstances, consumers’ footwear needs remained largely consistent throughout 2025,” Beth Goldstein, Circana’s footwear and accessories industry advisor, said. “Performance and lifestyle categories remain resilient as consumers prioritize comfort, health, and everyday utility.”

The overall U.S. footwear market held steady in 2025 at $90 billion. The number of units sold declined in the low single digits, Circana’s proprietary data indicated.

Goldstein noted that while fashion has struggled overall, growth areas signaled “consumers’ interest in newness and more tailored styling while remaining comfortable.”

For 2025, the same categories that dominated the fourth quarter also were the top growth segments for the year.

Performance shoes continue to lead industry growth, with dollar sales up six percent and the number of units also rising, driven by running, walking, and training. “Running posted a 9 percent dollar increase, supported by continued interest in the category for both athletic and casual use. Walking grew 9 percent in dollar sales and experienced the strongest unit surge in the performance sector.”

Circana noted that the sport lifestyle segment, the largest within the industry, concluded the year up 4 percent in dollar sales, driven primarily by running-inspired and soccer-inspired styles.

The year saw fashion footwear down 2 percent in dollar terms, with continued softness in seasonal categories. Bright spots include high-shaft boots, up 14 percent, and shoe silhouettes such as mules/clogs, ballerinas and boat shoes.