The footwear industry in 2025 is undergoing significant shifts, with consumer preferences moving rapidly from one style to another. For brands, designers and retailers, keeping pace with these changes is crucial. Here’s a closer look at the key footwear trends shaping the market this year.

The Decline of Clogs and the Rise of Birkenstock-Inspired Styles

In recent years, clogs and Crocs-style footwear were seen everywhere, from high street retailers to fashion runways. However, in 2025 the demand for clog-style shoes has started to fade. Instead, Birkenstock sandals and similar comfort-driven designs are enjoying a resurgence. Their appeal lies in the combination of comfort, minimal design and a strong association with lifestyle fashion. This shift highlights a wider consumer preference for footwear that balances practicality with style.

Water Shoes Enter the Lifestyle Segment

Another surprising development is the growing attention on water shoes (also known as aqua shoes or river shoes). Once considered a purely functional product, they are now finding a place in the lifestyle segment, driven by the popularity of light outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and beachside holidays. Despite this trend, the category still faces a challenge: the repurchase rate stands at only 17%, well below the average for outdoor footwear. For brands, this suggests opportunity but also the need for innovation in both design and durability to encourage repeat buyers.

Ballet Flats and Mary Jane Shoes: Classic Styles Return

At the other end of the spectrum, minimalist flat shoes are making a comeback. Ballet flats and Mary Jane shoes are gaining traction among smaller independent labels, and interestingly, they are also being embraced by luxury fashion houses. Their timeless appeal, versatility, and connection to everyday wear make them a smart addition to both capsule wardrobes and high-end collections. Thin-soled flats, once overlooked, are now seen as a stylish and accessible alternative to more statement-driven footwear.

What This Means for the Footwear Market

The changing dynamics of the footwear industry reveal three clear takeaways:

1. 1.Comfort remains king – from Birkenstock-inspired sandals to functional outdoor shoes, practicality drives sales.

2. 2.Niche products are gaining visibility – even if repurchase rates are low, consumer curiosity fuels market opportunities.

3. 3.Classic footwear styles are timeless – heritage-inspired shoes like ballet flats and Mary Janes prove that trends often circle back.

For brands and retailers, adapting to these shifts is not just about following fashion. It’s about aligning with consumer lifestyles, sustainability goals, and the growing demand for footwear that blends tradition with modern appeal.