In this article, we will take a look at the 9 Best Footwear Stocks to Buy Now.
The footwear industry has been facing pressure from macroeconomic instability and high tariffs. Most brands have raised prices only for select shoe styles as opposed to across-the-board increases. Data from Telsey Advisory Group shows relatively modest increases among the footwear brands when prices were raised.
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According to Telesy Advisory data, only a few brands increased prices by more than 10% on select items, while some shoe brands didn’t make any hikes. Footwear companies have remained cautious while raising prices to avoid consumer instability and maintain sales. The ongoing tariff uncertainties have been the major reason to the shoe price hikes.
Famous footwear brand Nike raised some retail prices on June 1, 2025, by an average of $2 to $10. The footwear brand did not make any price changes to Jordan products and kept all kids’ products at current price points.
Executives at footwear brands that have recently posted Q2 earnings didn’t talk much about price increases for the fall shopping season. Birkenstock Holding’s CEO, Ivica Krolo, mentioned that pricing “is not the only lever we have.” Krolo said that optimization of product mix and vendor negotiations are also key options to tackle the current situation effectively.
Overall, footwear brands have navigated tariff challenges with a cautious and targeted pricing strategy. This has worked well so far, and it will be essential for footwear companies to access consumer sentiment and adjust pricing strategies, if needed, accordingly.
With these market trends in mind, let’s turn to the 9 Best Footwear Stocks to Buy Now.
Pixabay/Public Domain
Our Methodology
To compile the list of 9 best footwear stocks to buy now, we shortlisted the footwear companies from the Finviz screener. We then ranked these best footwear stocks in ascending order of the number of hedge fund holders. The data for hedge funds is taken from Insider Monkey’s Hedge Fund database, updated as of Q2 2025.
Note: The data was recorded on August 26.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
9 Best Footwear Stocks to Buy Now
9. Designer Brands Inc. (NYSE:DBI)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 15
Designer Brands Inc. (NYSE:DBI) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 26, Designer Brands Inc. (NYSE:DBI) announced that it will release its second-quarter 2025 earnings on September 9, 2025.
On average, Wall Street expects Designer Brands to post earnings per share of $0.14 per share and revenue of around $730.59 million. On July 11, Telsey Advisory analyst Dana Telsey lowered the price target on DBI from $5 to $4, keeping its Market Perform rating. The analyst pointed out that despite the modest expectations, Designer Brands’ Q1 FY2025 results were disappointing.
The company posted $687 million in revenue, down by 8% from a year ago and missing consensus by $45.91 million. Telsey noted that the demand was softer than expected, with unfavorable conditions playing a role. The U.S. retail reported a 7.3% drop in comps and a 7.7% decline in total sales. The macroeconomic environment remains challenging, with pressure on the consumer remaining a concern. Telsey said that the impact from tariffs also remains an issue, with consumers reacting to higher prices. Designer Brands has not provided an outlook for the full year 2025 due to these uncertain conditions.
As of August 25, Telsey Advisory’s price target of $4 implies an upside of 8.55% from current levels.
Designer Brands Inc. (NYSE:DBI) is a leading designer, producer, and retailer of footwear brands and accessories. The company operates via three segments: the U.S. retail, the Canadian retail, and the brand portfolio segments.
8. Steven Madden, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SHOO)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 20
Steven Madden, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SHOO) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 8, BTIG reiterated the Buy rating on Steven Madden, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SHOO) stock, with the price target set at $34.
Janine Stichter from BTIG reaffirmed its rating on SHOO following notable Q2 FY2025 results. Despite the ongoing tariff volatility, Stichter sees Steven Madden in a good position to navigate these challenges more effectively than its retail peers. The analyst expects the company to emerge from the current tariff situation sooner than most competitors and potentially in a stronger position.
Steven Madden demonstrated notable development in Q2, achieving 6.8% growth in consolidated revenue from a year ago, posting $559 million in total sales. The Kurt Geiger acquisition was one of the key drivers for this growth. The company’s D2C segment experienced a significant revenue increase of 43.3%. Steven Madden has also diversified its sourcing, minimizing reliance on China from 71% in 2024 to an estimated 30% for fall 2025.
As of August 25, BTIG’s price target of $34 indicates an upside of 18.72%, while Steven Madden, Ltd.’s (NASDAQ:SHOO) average price target of $27, based on analysts’ estimates, implies a downside of nearly 5.73% from current levels.
Steven Madden, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SHOO) designs, sources, and markets fashion-forward branded and private label footwear, accessories, and apparel.
7. Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NASDAQ:WWW)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 26
Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NASDAQ:WWW) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 26, Stifel raised the price target on Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NASDAQ:WWW) from $30 to $36, keeping its Buy rating.
Stifel analyst Peter McGoldrick increased the price target following strong momentum across two of the firm’s largest brands, Saucony and Merrell. McGoldrick was encouraged to see how Saucony resonated with new wholesale partners in its recently run proprietary Back-to-School 2025 Athletic Footwear Survey, which is raising its active revenue growth estimates for FY2025 and FY2026. The analyst remains positive on Wolverine World Wide’s ability to generate approximately $2 billion in revenue during FY2026.
“We’re executing our new brand-building model at pace, and we’ve made meaningful strides in improving the profitability of the business, along with strengthening the balance sheet. I remain confident in the things we can control as we navigate continued uncertainties due to the global trade and consumer environment,” said Chris Hufnagel, CEO of Wolverine Worldwide, during the Q2 FY2025 earnings call.
The company continues to expect growth ahead, with revenue anticipated to be around $450 million to $460 million in Q3 FY2025, indicating a growth rate of 2.1% to 4.4%.
Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NASDAQ:WWW) designs, manufactures, sources, licenses, markets, and distributes footwear, apparel, and accessories.
6. Crocs, Inc. (NASDAQ:CROX)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 36
Crocs, Inc. (NASDAQ:CROX) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 18, Crocs, Inc. (NASDAQ:CROX) and the National Football League (NFL) signed a multiyear licensing deal.
Crocs and the NFL deal will offer football fans footwear with team patterns and adornments. Crocs and the NFL will launch a new collection starting September 18, 2025, two weeks after the beginning of the new season. The collection will include one of the bestselling shoes, The Classic Clogs, which will be a ‘marquee product’, the NFL mentioned in its release.
“The Crocs brand has made a significant impact on footwear culture, with their shoes becoming synonymous with ease and comfort. Collaborating with Crocs allows us to give fans expanded options that will keep them stylishly comfortable for gameday and every day,” said Ryan Samuelson, vice president of consumer products at the NFL.
The Crocs collection will initially include footwear for 14 teams and will expand to include all 32 teams. Consumers can buy items from the NFL x Crocs Collection from Crocs.com, NFLshop.com, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Fanatics, and select retailers.
As of August 26, Crocs, Inc. (NASDAQ:CROX) stock has soared by 4% since the multiyear NFL agreement was announced on August 18.
Crocs, Inc. (NASDAQ:CROX) is a major footwear designer and manufacturer. The company designs, develops, markets, distributes, and sells casual lifestyle footwear and accessories for all.
5. On Holding AG (NYSE:ONON)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 42
On Holding AG (NYSE:ONON) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 13, Bernstein reiterated the Buy rating on On Holding AG (NYSE:ONON), keeping the price target at $70.
Aneesha Sherman from Bernstein retains the rating on On Holding following mixed results for the Q2 FY2025. The Swiss sports footwear firm posted revenue of CHF 749.2 million, an increase of 38% on a constant currency basis, exceeding expectations. The company reported a gross profit margin expansion to 61.5% and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 18.2%, indicating robust premium positioning.
Sherman remains positive on the company’s exceptional growth in the DTC channel, with net sales up 54.3% from a year ago, increasing the DTC mix to 41.1% of sales. Moreover, On Holding’s triple-digit growth in the APAC region was a major boost, with net sales up 110.9% on a constant currency basis from a year ago. The company’s apparel business experienced a 75.5% growth on a constant currency basis, reflecting strong consumer engagement.
As of August 26, On Holding AG’s (NYSE:ONON) average price target of $68.53, based on analysts’ estimates, implies an upside of nearly 51.67% from current levels.
On Holding AG (NYSE:ONON) engages in the development and distribution of sports products, including athletic footwear, apparel, and accessories.
4. Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 46
Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 25, Telsey Advisory maintained its Buy rating on Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK), keeping the price target at $70.
Jason Strominger from Telsey Advisory retained the rating on BIRK following the strong Q3 FY2025 results. Birkenstock posted revenue of $739.62 million, achieving a 16% growth in constant currency. The company experienced this double-digit growth across all segments and channels, with the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions soaring by 16%, 13%, and 24% in constant currency, respectively. Birkenstock’s B2B channel outpaced D2C, with B2B revenue up 18% in constant currency, fueled by robust sell-through at retail partners.
Strominger remains optimistic about Birkenstock as the company continues to expand its retail presence. Birkenstock plans to reach around 100 stores by the end of FY2025, gaining more in-person shopping demand.
Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK) focuses on the manufacturing and sale of footwear products. It offers sandals, shoes, closed-toe silhouettes, and accessories.
3. Deckers Outdoor Corporation (NYSE:DECK)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 59
Deckers Outdoor Corporation (NYSE:DECK) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 21, Deckers Outdoor Corporation’s (NYSE:DECK) subsidiary and its global lifestyle brand, UGG, released its Autumn/Winter 2025 campaign.
UGG’s latest campaign, Iconic From the First Step, features creative icons and explores the strong connection between collaboration and the community that lives at the heart of UGG. The campaign reflects the image of UGG and how the brand grew from the beaches of Southern California to become a beloved global fashion icon.
“Iconic From the First Step is a celebration of our journey as a brand, and the amazing individuals who have joined us along the way to build community throughout our history. Since 1978, we’ve been helping our community feel comfortable expressing themselves inside and out. And, we haven’t done it alone,” said Anne Spangenberg, President of UGG.
The campaign will also highlight design, style, and feel through UGG brand’s signature codes, including the Twin Seam and Sun Logo. The campaign stars celebrities from various backgrounds, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Stefon Diggs, Jeremy Scott, Elsa Hosk, Alton Mason, Leah Dou, and others. The campaign will be live throughout the season with the launch of exclusive content and captivating storytelling commemorating Iconic Design, Iconic Style, and Iconic Feeling.
As of August 26, Deckers Outdoor Corporation stock has soared by 8.70% since the announcement of the Autumn/Winter 2025 campaign on August 21.
Deckers Outdoor Corporation (NYSE:DECK), together with its subsidiaries, designs and markets footwear, apparel, and accessories for casual lifestyle and high-performance activities.
2. Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (NYSE:SKX)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 70
Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (NYSE:SKX) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 18, Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (NYSE:SKX) was awarded the Title Sponsor and the Official Shoe of The World Champions Cup.
Skechers has partnered with the PGA TOUR Champions global teams’ major golf competition, which will be live from December 4 to 7, 2025. Along with Skechers, Tampa-based Shriners Children’s was named Official Charity Partner. The event is named after footwear maker Skechers World Champions Cup, and will reflect the sponsorship and partnership.
“The Skechers World Champions Cup supporting Shriners Children’s mirrors our commitment to innovating the golf experience—from game-changing products to engaging top players in exciting new ways. As a global brand known for bringing Comfort that Performs to the course, we look forward to advancing the sport with the world’s best,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers.
Skechers’ on-site activation at the tournament will include sponsorship of the Skechers VIP shared hospitality suite and an immersive pop-up shop. These activations will improve the fan experience and underscore the company’s dedication to promoting the tournament’s prestige.
Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (NYSE:SKX) designs, develops, markets, and sells various lifestyle and performance footwear, apparel, and accessories for men, women, and children.
1. NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 81
NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) is one of the best footwear stocks to buy now. On August 25, NIKE, Inc.’s (NYSE:NKE) Basketball division introduced Caitlin Clark as its newest signature athlete.
Nike Basketball is expanding the brand’s collaboration with one of the most watched, impactful, and passionate players in the game, said Nike. As the company’s signature athlete, Caitlin will continue to work alongside experts across the brand to shape the future of basketball, boosting hoops culture, growing the women’s game, and empowering the next generation.
“We’re excited to take this next step together, continuing to shape this historic time for women’s basketball and pushing the game and industry forward,” says Ann Miller, EVP, Nike Global Sports Marketing.
Nike and Caitlin are also revealing her new signature logo to represent the athlete. The logo will go live in a new collection of sportswear and on-court staples that reflect Caitlin’s approach to sport and style. One of the first products from the collaboration will be a navy and yellow Caitlin Clark logo T-shirt, which will be available in North America from September 1, 2o25. The remaining of Caitlin’s logo apparel collection will launch on October 1 at nike.com.
NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) is a famous footwear and apparel firm that operates through its subsidiaries. The company designs, develops, markets, and sells athletic and casual footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and services.
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