SKECHERS

Introduction

SKECHERS was founded in 1992 by Robert Greenberg and his son Michael in California. Initially starting as a utility shoe company, the brand quickly evolved to focus on casual footwear that combines style and comfort. The founders sought to create a space in the footwear industry that offered practical, trendy options for a wide audience, catering to various walks of life while remaining committed to quality and craftsmanship. This demographic appeal has played a significant role in SKECHERS' swift growth and establishment in the global market.

The brand's philosophy revolves around innovation, creativity, and functionality. SKECHERS aims to provide shoes that not only look good but also support the active lifestyle of their wearers. This commitment can be observed in their continuous stride towards improving comfort technologies, sustainability, and design aesthetics. SKECHERS often collaborates with celebrities and athletes, which aligns with their mission to engage consumers and create products that resonate with contemporary lifestyle trends. The brand’s playful approach to marketing and product development further enhances its appeal, making it a favorite among families and individuals alike.

What makes SKECHERS stand out in the competitive footwear landscape is its diverse product range and the focus on inclusivity. By offering a wide variety of styles that appeal to different age groups and demographics, SKECHERS caters to the diverse needs of its consumers. The shoes often feature proprietary comfort technology, which highlights the brand's dedication to enhancing the overall user experience. This combination of versatility, style, and comfort contributes to the brand’s ability to remain relevant and popular with a broad audience.

Signature Products

SKECHERS products are designed to define the brand's mission of combining comfort, style, and versatility. The extensive collection speaks to various lifestyles and needs, helping to establish SKECHERS as a household name.

• SKECHERS GOwalk : A line of footwear specifically designed for walking, featuring lightweight, responsive cushioning and supportive architecture.
• SKECHERS D'lites : A retro-inspired sneaker that focuses on comfort and style, known for its chunky design and thick sole for extra cushioning.
• SKECHERS Sport : This category includes a range of athletic shoes tailored for performance and support during sports and exercise activities.
• SKECHERS Relaxed Fit : A collection that emphasizes roomy designs and enhanced comfort features, accommodating those seeking a comfortable everyday shoe.
• SKECHERS Shape-ups : Footwear designed with a unique rocking sole that aims to engage muscles and promote a healthier walking experience.

Materials and Ingredients Used by SKECHERS

• Rubber : This material is derived from the latex of rubber trees and is known for its durability and flexibility. SKECHERS utilizes rubber in the outsoles of their footwear to provide traction, comfort, and long-lasting wear, making it an essential ingredient for various shoe styles.
• Recycled Polyester : This ingredient is made from recycled PET bottles and other polyester waste, contributing to sustainability by reducing plastic waste. SKECHERS incorporates recycled polyester in some of their shoe uppers and linings to enhance the eco-friendliness of their products while maintaining quality and lightweight characteristics.
• Ethylene Vinyl Acetate : Commonly known as EVA, this is a lightweight and flexible plastic often used for cushioning and support in footwear. SKECHERS employs EVA in their midsoles to provide shock absorption and comfort, making it a popular choice across various shoe collections.
• Polyurethane : This synthetic polymer is valued for its durability and versatility. SKECHERS uses polyurethane in certain shoe components, such as insoles and uppers, for its ability to provide structure, waterproofing, and comfort, making it suitable for various weather conditions and activities.
• Organic Cotton : This natural fiber is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making it a more environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional cotton. SKECHERS incorporates organic cotton in some of their footwear and apparel products to appeal to consumers who prefer sustainable and soft materials for comfort and breathability.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From SKECHERS

These issues are related to the supply chain of the brand and need to be taken into consideration for a more sustainable and socially responsible operation.

Deforestation:

Deforestation occurs often in order to plant rubber trees or graze livestock, disrupting ecosystems and contributing to climate change. For instance, vast areas of the Amazon Rainforest have been cleared for cattle ranching, which directly relates to leather production.

High Energy Consumption:

Materials like nylon and recycled polyester require substantial amounts of energy to produce. This energy often comes from non-renewable sources, increasing the carbon footprint. The production of one kilogram of nylon, for example, emits over 5 kg of CO2 on average.

Chemical Pollution:

Many materials such as polyurethane, neoprene, and EVA require creating and processing harmful chemicals that can contaminate local air and water supplies. Factories producing EVA may release vinyl acetate, a hazardous air pollutant.

Microplastic Pollution:

When materials like recycled polyester and nylon degrade, they can release microplastics into waterways, affecting marine life and eventually entering the human food chain. For example, a single wash of a polyester garment can release thousands of microfibers into the water system.

Non-biodegradable:

Materials such as EVA, foam, and certain synthetics are non-biodegradable, contributing to long-term waste issues. Products made from these materials persist in landfills for hundreds of years, causing significant environmental harm.

Water Pollution:

Leather processing involves treating hides with chemicals like chromium, which can contaminate water supplies. Several rivers in developing countries have been significantly polluted due to nearby tanneries discharging untreated wastewater.

Animal Welfare Concerns:

Leather production involves raising and slaughtering animals, raising ethical concerns about animal welfare. The leather industry is often criticized for its inhumane practices in crowded feedlots and slaughterhouses.

Soil Degradation:

Even organic cotton farming can lead to soil depletion if not managed sustainably. Repeated planting of cotton on the same land can strip the soil of nutrients, reducing its fertility over time.

By understanding and mitigating these issues, SKECHERS can better align its production practices with sustainability goals, catering to environmentally conscious consumers and meeting regulatory requirements.