Kontoor Brands-owned Lee will launch men’s footwear in 2025.
The Kontoor Brands-owned denim brand announced last week that it entered a licensing agreement with U.S. footwear manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer Jack Schwartz Shoes. It marks the first major expansion into footwear for Lee.
Elements of Lee’s denim and workwear heritage will be carried into the line, which is set to launch in the second half of 2025. The collection will focus on contemporary takes on athletic and casual styles including a classic court sneaker, basketball and skate-inspired designs, a casual comfort/city sneaker and a lace-up boot inspired by ’90s footwear.
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“Lee footwear will fill a void within the market often overlooked and most times understated. The blurring lines of casual and athletic have provided us with the perfect opportunity,” said David Schwartz, president of Jack Schwartz Shoes.
Lee’s new collection follows other recent accessory ventures, including handbags, socks, underwear, belts and caps, and footwear collaborations with Oliver Cabell and Hey Dude.
“Footwear is a natural extension of apparel, and we’re thrilled to be working with Jack Schwartz Shoes on this initiative,” said Steve Armus, vice-president global licensing and partnerships, Lee. “JSS has a long-standing heritage and is an expert in this industry. They understand how to create quality products that provide a value; I’m confident this line will resonate with our everyday consumer.”
Jack Schwartz Shoes was founded in 1936 at the height of the Great Depression. With a stable of footwear brands including Lugz, British Knights and Ben Sherman, it is one of the largest family-owned footwear companies in the U.S.
Schwartz said the partnership with Lee is a natural fit. “Marrying our craftsmanship and expertise in the footwear space with the branding and heritage of Lee fits seamlessly,” he said. “The brand’s DNA is articulated within our design language, so no matter which silhouette appears in front of the customer, they’ll know it’s Lee footwear.”
Footwear will retail for under $100. The collection will be available on Lee.com and in other retail stores.
