What is the Oldest Running Shoe Brand?
When it comes to the world of running shoes, we are often surrounded by modern giants like Nike, Adidas, and Asics. These brands dominate the market with their innovative technologies, celebrity endorsements, and sleek designs. However, the history of running shoes stretches much further back than the rise of these contemporary giants. The origins of running footwear trace back to the 19th century, and among the many brands that have come and gone, one stands out as the oldest continuously running shoe brand in the world: Burlington.
In this article, we will explore the history of Burlington, its evolution through the decades, and how it has managed to survive in an increasingly competitive market. We’ll also briefly compare it to other early shoe brands that laid the foundation for the running shoe industry as we know it today.
The Origins of Running Footwear
Before we delve into the history of Burlington, it’s important to understand the broader context of how running shoes came to be. While humans have been running for millennia, purpose-built running shoes are a relatively recent invention. The earliest forms of athletic shoes emerged in the 19th century, primarily for sports like cricket and tennis. These shoes were made with rubber soles, a revolutionary material at the time.
The concept of running shoes specifically designed for foot support, cushioning, and performance began to take shape in the early 20th century. The rise of competitive athletics and marathons, especially following the revival of the Olympic Games in 1896, created a growing demand for better footwear.
The Birth of Burlington
Burlington traces its roots back to 1876, when the company was founded in Burlington, Massachusetts, USA. Originally known as the Burlington Rubber Company, the brand started by producing rubber footwear, including galoshes and boots. As the 20th century progressed, the company began experimenting with athletic footwear.
By the 1920s, Burlington had shifted its focus toward sports and running shoes. It was during this time that the brand began producing some of the earliest models of track and field shoes, often featuring leather uppers and rubber soles. These shoes were used by athletes in competitions, including the Olympics.
One of the defining moments in Burlington’s history came in the 1930s, when the brand began to gain recognition for its high-quality, durable running shoes. Unlike many of its competitors, which were still experimenting with materials and designs, Burlington focused on simplicity and functionality—qualities that resonated with serious athletes.
The Golden Age of Track and Field
The mid-20th century marked a golden age for track and field, and Burlington was right at the center of it. During the 1940s and 1950s, the brand became a favorite among runners and athletes who valued performance over flashy branding. At a time when most running shoes were basic and unadorned, Burlington’s models stood out for their comfort and reliability.
One of the most notable athletes to wear Burlington shoes was Roger Bannister, the British runner who famously broke the four-minute mile in 1954. While Bannister is often associated with other brands in popular memory, historical records indicate that he wore a pair of Burlington Tracksters during some of his early races.
This period also saw Burlington expanding its reach beyond the United States. The brand became popular in Europe, especially in the UK, where it was embraced by amateur and professional athletes alike. The simplicity of the design, combined with the durability of the rubber soles, made Burlington a go-to brand for runners who wanted no-nonsense footwear.
The Decline and Resurgence
The 1960s and 1970s were transformative decades for the running shoe industry. New brands like Nike and Adidas began to dominate the market, introducing innovative technologies such as air cushioning, synthetic materials, and aggressive marketing campaigns. These companies capitalized on the growing fitness boom and the increasing commercialization of sports.
In contrast, Burlington remained relatively conservative in its approach. While the company continued to produce quality running shoes, it failed to keep up with the rapid changes in the market. By the 1980s, Burlington had lost much of its market share and struggled to compete with the new wave of athletic brands.
However, rather than disappearing entirely, Burlington adapted. The brand shifted its focus to niche markets, including vintage enthusiasts, retro collectors, and track and field purists who still valued the minimalist design and performance of older running shoes. In the 2000s, a small but dedicated community of vintage sneaker collectors helped spark a resurgence in interest in Burlington shoes.
Today, Burlington is still in operation, though on a much smaller scale than in its heyday. The brand continues to release limited-edition models inspired by its classic designs, appealing to those who appreciate heritage and history in their footwear.
Comparing Burlington to Other Early Running Shoe Brands
While Burlington is widely regarded as the oldest continuously running shoe brand, it was not the only early player in the industry. Several other brands emerged around the same time or slightly later and contributed significantly to the development of running footwear.
Saucony (1898): Founded in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, Saucony began as a manufacturer of athletic shoes and has since become a well-known brand in the running community. Saucony is still active today and has evolved with the times, incorporating modern technologies into its designs.
Onitsuka Tiger (1949): This Japanese brand later became ASICS and is known for its contributions to the global running shoe market. Onitsuka Tiger also has a retro line that pays homage to its early designs.
Adidas (1949): Founded by Adi Dassler in Germany, Adidas quickly became a major player in athletic footwear. Its innovations in shoe design, particularly in the realm of track spikes and running shoes, made it a household name.
Nike (1964): Although not as old as the others, Nike revolutionized the running shoe industry in the 1970s with the introduction of the Waffle Sole and other groundbreaking technologies.
Compared to these brands, Burlington’s claim to being the oldest comes from its continuous production of running and athletic shoes since the early 20th century. While some brands may have started earlier in other industries (like tennis or casual footwear), few can match Burlington’s uninterrupted legacy in running shoes.
Why Burlington Still Matters Today
In an age where running shoes are packed with airbags, carbon fiber plates, and smart sensors, one might wonder why anyone would still care about a brand like Burlington. The answer lies in the values it represents: simplicity, durability, and authenticity.
Many modern runners are beginning to question whether more technology always equals better performance. There is a growing movement toward minimalist running shoes and barefoot running, which aligns with the design philosophy of early brands like Burlington. These runners appreciate the lightweight, low-profile design and the natural feel of the shoes—qualities that Burlington has offered for over a century.
Additionally, the rise of retro fashion and heritage brands has brought renewed attention to older companies like Burlington. Sneaker collectors and vintage enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for original or reissued models that reflect the history and craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Conclusion
The story of Burlington is a testament to endurance—not just in running, but in business. As the oldest continuously running shoe brand in the world, Burlington has weathered wars, economic downturns, and the rise of global competitors. Through it all, the brand has remained a symbol of quality, simplicity, and tradition.
While it may no longer dominate the running shoe market, Burlington’s legacy lives on in the hearts of collectors, historians, and runners who appreciate the roots of the sport. In a world obsessed with the latest trends and the fastest technology, Burlington reminds us that sometimes, the best designs are the ones that stand the test of time.
So the next time you lace up your running shoes, take a moment to consider the long history behind the industry—and remember the brand that started it all: Burlington.