September 30, 2025 Press Release

New Survey Shows Nearly Half of Americans Unlikely to Buy Shoes This Holiday Season — Tariffs Blamed for Rising Prices

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new national survey conducted by Emerson College Polling and commissioned by the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) reveals that nearly half of U.S. consumers say they are not likely to purchase shoes this holiday season — a troubling sign for retailers as inflation and tariffs continue to impact consumer behavior.

Among those who do plan to shop for shoes, a majority say tariffs are a major reason prices have increased in recent months. The findings underscore growing concern among voters and shoppers about the hidden costs of trade policies on everyday goods.

See the full release include soundbites here.

About FDRA: FDRA is governed and directed by footwear executives and is the only trade organization focused solely on the footwear industry. Serving the full footwear supply chain, it boosts its members’ bottom lines through innovative products, training, consulting on footwear design and development, sourcing and compliance, trade and customs, advocacy, and consumer and sales trend analysis for shoe retailers around the world. FDRA supports 500 companies and brands worldwide, representing 97% of the total U.S. footwear industry.

To schedule an interview with Matt Priest on the state of the footwear industry, please email fdracomms@cgagroup.com.