Skechers USA, Inc. is a multinational company founded in 1992. It is headquartered in Manhattan Beach, California, and ranks as the third largest footwear brand in the United States.
In 1978, Boston-born Robert Greenberg moved to California after experiencing a harsh East Coast winter, eventually leading to his involvement in the shoe industry.
1982
Licensing of E.T. image by Robert Greenberg
In 1982, Robert Greenberg licensed the image of the film character E.T. to appear on shoelaces, which brought him significant revenue and recognition in the retail industry. This success eventually led to the founding of L.A. Gear.
1990
Decline of L.A. Gear
In 1990, the popular shoe brand L.A. Gear faced a sudden decline after being a top-selling brand among young American women. This decline led to the departure of Robert Greenberg, the creator of L.A. Gear.
1992
Skechers D'Lites Sneaker Introduction
The Skechers D'Lites sneaker was introduced as part of Skechers' footwear lineup, contributing to the brand's global recognition and success.
1993
Launch of Chrome Dome
In 1993, Skechers introduced the Chrome Dome, an edgy urban street boot that became popular among young hipsters and the grunge culture, marking a turning point for the company.
1995
Skechers reaches $100 million in annual sales
In 1995, Skechers achieved a significant milestone by reaching $100 million in annual sales, showcasing the company's rapid growth and success in the footwear industry.
1997
Skechers global expansion
By 1997, Skechers had established a strong global presence, becoming recognized internationally for its footwear. It was a significant milestone for the brand.
1998-04-13
Skechers Takes Over Nike Super Show Site
On April 13, 1998, Skechers acquired the site of the Nike Super Show, marking a significant move in the footwear industry.
1999-02-22
Little-Known Skechers Enters the Sneaker Wars
In February 1999, Skechers, a relatively unknown brand, made an impact by entering the competitive sneaker market.
2000
Recognition and Stock Growth
In 2000, Skechers was recognized by Business Week and Footwear News, and its stock began to rise steadily, leading to sustained growth.
2005
Skechers surpasses $1 billion in annual sales
The year 2005 saw Skechers achieving a significant milestone by surpassing $1 billion in annual sales for the first time, highlighting its exponential growth and market success.
2007
Introduction of Skechers D’Lites
Skechers introduced the D’Lites sneaker in 2007 as a lightweight version of their original Energy sneakers, featuring a chunky aesthetic. The D’Lites sneaker became popular for its influence on the ongoing chunky sneakers trend in the late 2010s.
2010
Skechers becoming a regular Super Bowl advertiser
Since 2010, Skechers has been consistently advertising during the Super Bowl, utilizing this platform to promote its products to a wide audience.
2011
Skechers Launches Performance Sportswear Line
In 2011, Skechers launched its performance sportswear line for athletes and signed Meb Keflezighi as a spokesman.
2012
Skechers Settles Class Action Lawsuit
In 2012, Skechers agreed to settle a class action lawsuit for $40 million after a U.S. Federal Trade Commission complaint regarding its Shape-Ups rocker bottom shoe ads.
2014
Market Share Growth
In 2014, Skechers was recognized as the fifth largest sneaker company in the world in terms of market share, leading to investor interest and positive evaluations.
2018
Skechers D’Lites featured in New York Fashion Week
Skechers D’Lites were showcased during New York Fashion Week shows in 2018, indicating their impact on the fashion industry. The brand highlighted the presence of D’Lites on the runways of seven different shows.
On March 1, 2019, Skechers launched an advertising campaign called 'Just Blew It' to draw attention to the Zion Williamson shoe incident involving Nike, showcasing a competitive stance in the market.
2020
Introduction of Goodyear rubber in select Skechers shoes
Since 2020, Skechers has incorporated Goodyear rubber into some of its shoe designs, aiming to enhance the quality and performance of the footwear.
2021
French prosecutors investigation into Skechers and forced Uyghur labor
In 2021, French prosecutors initiated an investigation to determine if Skechers and other brands were involved in concealing or benefiting from forced Uyghur labor. This raised concerns about ethical practices within the company.
2022
Doja Cat's Skechers D'Lites Collaboration at Coachella
In 2022, Doja Cat performed at Coachella wearing OG Skechers D'Lites, sparking a partnership with Skechers. This collaboration led to Doja becoming Skechers' Artist-in-Residence and creating her own Skechers D'Lites collection, bringing a fresh energy to the brand.
2023-12
Sheffield Hallam University report on forced Uyghur labor
A report released in December 2023 by Sheffield Hallam University once again linked Skechers to forced Uyghur labor, indicating a persistent issue within the company's supply chain.
2024-04
Doja Cat collaboration with Skechers
Skechers is collaborating with the artist Doja Cat to create a new line of products, aiming to attract a younger demographic to purchase Skechers shoes.