The Athlete's Foot

Founded in 1971 by David Lando and his son, Michael, The Athlete's Foot (TAF) is a retail powerhouse that has left its footprint in the global athletic lifestyle and streetwear industry. The seed of its inception was planted when David noticed that athletic shoes were the standout best-seller in his store. Harnessing this insight, the father-son duo pioneered the first athletic footwear specialty store in the United States, right in the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The Athlete's Foot distinguished itself by specializing in athletic footwear—an approach that proved to be a game-changer. With the contribution of key partners like David's brother Robert and Sidney Gilbert of Rochester, New York, the brand soon started to expand within the United States. The first international franchise store opened its doors in 1978 in Adelaide, Australia, marking the beginning of The Athlete's Foot's journey across the globe.

Today, The Athlete's Foot has spread its wings to over 30 countries worldwide, boasting more than 550 stores in the United States, Australia, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Over the years, the company has remained true to its roots, specializing in athletic-inspired footwear, clothing, and accessories.

In 2012, The Athlete's Foot was acquired by the Intersport International Corporation (IIC), the world's largest sporting goods retail group, based in Bern, Switzerland. However, in 2021, IIC sold the business to the Arklyz Group, marking a new chapter in The Athlete's Foot's history.

One of the strengths of The Athlete's Foot lies in its strategic partnerships with globally recognized brands. It counts industry giants such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Asics, New Balance, Converse, Puma SE, and Vans among its key partners.

The Athlete's Foot's global headquarters is nestled in Stans, Switzerland, with its US headquarters residing in Atlanta, Georgia. If you're interested in exploring their latest offerings or learning more about their story, you can visit their official website​.