29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Footwear

Drew Shoe

United States

Drew Shoe is an American maker of therapeutic and orthopaedic footwear, founded by Irving Drew in Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1875. Now based in Lancaster, Ohio, it makes supportive comfort shoes for men and women.

Facts
Founded1875, Portsmouth, Ohio
FounderIrving Drew
HeadquartersLancaster, Ohio
SpecialityTherapeutic footwear
Websitedrewshoe.com
Segment
Mid-market
Categories
Footwear
Sales channels
WholesaleE-commerce

What is Drew Shoe?

Drew Shoe is a footwear company specialising in therapeutic and orthopaedic shoes for people with foot conditions, as well as customers seeking comfort and support. It is headquartered in Lancaster, Ohio.

History

Irving Drew founded the company in Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1875, initially making women's welt shoes. He later partnered with George Selby, trading as the Drew-Selby Company, before the partners separated. After the 1937 Ohio River flood, Drew Shoe moved to Lancaster, Ohio. The company became known for its reinforced arch, the Arch Rest.

Products and positioning

Today Drew makes comfort-focused shoes for men and women. Recent models feature:

  • Added and double depth with removable insoles through the Drew Plus Fitting System
  • Rocker bottoms and nylon shanks for stability
  • Slip-resistant rubber outsoles
  • Breathable mesh and knit uppers

Distribution

Drew sells through comfort footwear and specialist retailers, its own website, and the orthopaedic trade, exhibiting at events such as OTWorld in Leipzig.

Why it matters

With roots in the 19th century, Drew is one of the longest-running American footwear names and a reference brand in the medical and comfort shoe niche.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Drew Shoe located?

Drew Shoe is headquartered in Lancaster, Ohio, where it moved after the 1937 Ohio River flood.

What kind of shoes does Drew make?

Drew makes therapeutic and orthopaedic comfort shoes for men and women, including extra-depth styles.

All brands