The leather footwear industry in the US is a dynamic market that includes a variety of companies producing everything from luxury shoes to everyday wear. It features renowned brands known for craftsmanship and innovation, alongside emerging startups focused on sustainable practices. Major players offer high-quality leather footwear for various segments, including casual, formal, and performance-based products. As consumer preferences shift towards sustainability and ethical sourcing, the industry is evolving to include more eco-friendly materials and practices. This pivot towards sustainable production offers promising opportunities for growth and differentiation in a competitive market.


Our list includes a mix of investors in the leather footwear sector, primarily comprised of venture capital and private equity firms. Operating from key locations such as San Francisco and New York, these investors are sized between small teams and larger firms with expansive reach. Founded between 1983 and 2015, these investors have collectively driven more than 1,000 deals in the past year, illustrating their robust engagement in the market. Their investment focus reflects a keen interest in consumer brands, particularly in the evolving landscape of the leather footwear industry.


Top 15 Leather Footwear Investors in the US


1. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that helps entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its diverse portfolio, Y Combinator has invested in companies like Markhor, which raised $120,000 in a seed round in 2015 and specializes in handcrafted leather footwear. Additionally, they have invested in SockSoho, Goat Group, and Vastrm, showcasing their involvement in various sectors, including fashion and ecommerce. This diverse investment strategy highlights Y Combinator's willingness to support innovative companies across different industries, including leather footwear.


2. L Catterton

  • Website: lcatterton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm founded in 1989, specializing in investment management with a focus on consumer brands across various sectors. The firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. Notably, L Catterton has made significant investments in the leather footwear industry, including a substantial acquisition of a 36% stake in Tod's SpA, a luxury Italian brand valued at approximately €1.4 billion, and the acquisition of Birkenstock Group for over $4.8 billion. These transactions highlight L Catterton's commitment to driving growth and innovation within its portfolio, particularly in the leather footwear segment, while leveraging consumer insights to enhance market presence.


3. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses, providing capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. With over 1,000 companies in their extensive portfolio, many of which have achieved unicorn status, FJ Labs has established itself as a significant player in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they invested in Thursday Boot Company, a prominent brand in the leather footwear sector, during its Series A funding round in July 2018. This investment highlights their engagement in the leather footwear industry, alongside other transactions such as their involvement with PLAE and rintin, which, while not directly related to leather footwear, showcase their diverse investment strategy.


4. Accel

  • Website: accel.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 101
  • LinkedIn: accel-vc

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, based in Palo Alto, California. The firm specializes in investing in startups and early-stage companies, primarily in the technology sector, but has also shown interest in other industries. Notably, Accel has participated in funding rounds for M.Gemi, a luxury footwear brand that focuses on direct-to-consumer sales. They contributed to M.Gemi's Series B and Series C funding rounds, helping the brand raise a total of $47.2 million. This involvement highlights Accel's capacity to invest in the leather footwear market, alongside their broader investment strategy.


5. SV Angel

  • Website: svangel.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 44
  • LinkedIn: sv-angel

SV Angel is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth-stage investments, primarily in the technology sector, but has also shown interest in the footwear industry. Notable transactions include their investment in Zappos, which raised $150,000 in a Series A round in 1999, establishing itself as a major player in online shoe retail. Additionally, SV Angel invested $3.8 million in PLAE during a seed round in 2014, a company that designs and sells children's footwear. These investments highlight SV Angel's capability and interest in the footwear market, particularly in companies that may incorporate leather products.


6. Iconix International Inc

  • Website: iconixbrand.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Palm Beach, Florida, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: iconix-brand-group

Iconix International Inc, founded in 2005 and based in Palm Beach, Florida, is a corporate brand management company that specializes in licensing and marketing a diverse portfolio of consumer brands across fashion, sports, and home products. The company partners with retailers and manufacturers to enhance brand performance and market presence, focusing on apparel and accessories. Notably, Iconix has made several significant acquisitions, including the purchase of Badgley Mischka, a brand that may offer leather footwear options, and PONY, a North American brand known for its athletic footwear. These transactions highlight Iconix's engagement in the footwear sector, particularly with brands that could encompass leather products. Their strategic acquisitions, such as the $37 million deal for PONY, indicate a commitment to expanding their influence in the footwear market, making them a relevant player in the leather footwear industry.


7. Tiger Global

  • Website: tigerglobal.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: tiger-global-management

Tiger Global Management, LLC is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in both public and private equity investments. Founded in 2001, the firm manages approximately $50 billion and focuses on innovative companies leveraging technology. Among its notable transactions, Tiger Global has invested in Allbirds, a company recognized for its sustainable footwear, participating in Series B and C funding rounds totaling $67.5 million. Additionally, they have invested in other retail and e-commerce platforms like LimeRoad and Grupo Netshoes, which further demonstrates their engagement in the footwear and apparel sectors. Their diverse portfolio includes institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals seeking expert investment management and advisory services.


8. Advent


Advent International Corporation is a private equity firm founded in 1984, based in Boston, Massachusetts. The firm specializes in buyouts and investments across various sectors, partnering with companies to provide capital and strategic guidance for growth. Advent operates globally, focusing on long-term value creation for its portfolio companies. Notably, Advent has been involved in significant transactions within the leather footwear context, including the acquisition of Shoes For Crews in 2004 for $120 million, a company known for its slip-resistant footwear. This acquisition highlights Advent's commitment to the footwear industry, alongside their broader investment strategy that spans multiple sectors.


9. Sycamore Partners

  • Website: sycamorepartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: sycamore-partners

Sycamore Partners is a private equity firm based in New York that specializes in consumer and retail investments. Founded in 2011, the firm partners with management teams to enhance the profitability and strategic value of their businesses, providing flexible capital tailored to each investment. Sycamore's focus spans various sectors, including omnichannel retail, food and beverage, and consumer products. Notably, they have made significant acquisitions in the leather footwear industry, including Stuart Weitzman and Kurt Geiger, both of which are prominent brands known for their high-quality leather footwear. Additionally, their acquisition of Nine West Group further emphasizes their commitment to the footwear sector, showcasing their strategy to invest in and revitalize established brands within the leather footwear market.


10. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

  • Website: nea.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. However, they have also shown interest in the leather footwear industry through their investments in Tamara Mellon, a luxury footwear brand co-founded by the former Jimmy Choo co-founder. NEA led a Series B funding round for Tamara Mellon, raising $24 million, and participated in subsequent funding rounds, including a Series C round of $50 million. This involvement highlights NEA's capability and willingness to invest in the leather footwear market, alongside their primary focus areas.


11. Forerunner


Forerunner Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in consumer technology and innovative businesses, providing capital and strategic guidance to startups. Notably, Forerunner has invested in M.Gemi, a luxury footwear brand that has raised a total of $47.2 million across multiple funding rounds, including Series A, B, and C. Additionally, they have backed Birdies, a company known for its unique home footwear, which raised $8 million in Series A funding and $2 million in seed funding. These transactions highlight Forerunner's commitment to the footwear industry, particularly in the leather segment, aligning with emerging consumer demands and trends.


12. Lerer Hippeau

  • Website: lererhippeau.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: lerer-hippeau-ventures

Lerer Hippeau is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2010, that specializes in early-stage investments. They have a strong track record of connecting talented professionals with promising startups, providing essential funding and support to help these businesses grow. Notably, Lerer Hippeau has invested in Allbirds, a sustainable footwear company that has raised significant capital across multiple funding rounds, including $17.5 million in Series B, $7.25 million in Series A, and $2.7 million in a Seed Round. This involvement highlights their commitment to the footwear industry, particularly in the context of sustainable and innovative products, which may include leather footwear. Additionally, they have invested in other brands like Tracksmith and Everlane, which, while not exclusively leather footwear companies, contribute to the broader fashion and apparel landscape.


13. Blackstone

  • Website: blackstone.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a prominent investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a diverse portfolio that includes private equity, real estate, and credit solutions for both institutional and individual investors. Among its notable transactions, Blackstone invested in Crocs, raising $200 million in post-IPO equity in December 2013, which highlights its involvement in the leather footwear sector. Additionally, Blackstone has made significant investments in the fashion industry, such as its acquisition of Future Lifestyle Fashions, which raised substantial funds in post-IPO equity. The firm also acquired Jack Wolfskin, a German outdoor retailer, further showcasing its strategy of investing in brands that may intersect with the leather footwear market. Through these transactions, Blackstone demonstrates its commitment to building strong businesses and delivering lasting value across various sectors, including leather footwear.


14. Wolverine Worldwide


Wolverine World Wide, Inc. is a footwear manufacturer and retailer based in Rockford, Michigan, founded in 1883. The company is known for its diverse range of brands, including Wolverine, Hush Puppies, and Merrell, which produce high-quality footwear for various markets, including military, outdoor, and casual wear. Wolverine Worldwide has a global presence, operating in approximately 200 countries and territories. Notably, the company has made significant acquisitions in the leather footwear sector, including the purchase of Sebago, Inc. in 2003 and again in 2017, which specializes in leather footwear. Additionally, their acquisition of Sperry Top-Sider in 2012 further expanded their portfolio in the leather footwear market. These transactions highlight Wolverine Worldwide's commitment to the leather footwear industry and its strategy to enhance its brand offerings in this space.


15. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses, agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing, with a strong emphasis on supporting entrepreneurs in underserved communities. Advantage Capital's investment strategy includes flexible capital solutions aimed at fostering growth and sustainability. Notably, they have been involved in transactions such as Quoddy, a company that raised funds through both debt financing and Series A rounds, indicating their active role in the leather footwear market. Additionally, their investment in Kanata Blanket further showcases their diverse portfolio, although it is not directly related to leather footwear. Overall, Advantage Capital's history of supporting companies like Quoddy positions them as a relevant player in the leather footwear investment landscape.



Leather Footwear Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
AccelPalo Alto, California, United States (USA)51-2001983101
SV AngelSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10200944
Iconix International IncPalm Beach, Florida, United States (USA)51-20020051
Tiger GlobalNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-200200125
AdventBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)501-1000198417
Sycamore PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-20020113
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200197757
ForerunnerSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50201212
Lerer HippeauNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50201023
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
Wolverine WorldwideRockford, Michigan, United States (USA)1001-500018830
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925


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