The Story of Dansko Shoes

Started by a husband and wife team who originally sought out the perfect pair of “barn shoes” on a horse buying trip to Denmark, they first started purchasing clogs and bringing them back home in their suitcases. The interest in these unique closed-back clogs grew first through word of mouth and the interest of close friends, family, staff and students. Owners Mandy Cabot and Peter Kjellerup then started stocking up and having dozens of pairs of the shoes shipped overseas. They sold the highly coveted beloved clogs at horse shows they attended, unloading them from the back of their trunk. The shoes were instantly a hit among those in the horse business, many of whom were also active in professions where they were on their feet most of the day. So quickly the interest from horse lovers spread to a larger audience that included doctors, nurses, chefs and other service professionals. Suddenly, the couple was unable to keep up with the demand for these clogs, so they did what any entrepreneur would do – they started their own shoe business, called Dansko, which literally translated, means Danish shoe.

Dansko shoes realized that there was a market for many more types of comfortable shoes, and they grew the company’s product offerings to include high heel shoes, sandals, wedges, flats and boots. And through each product introduction or line extension, the husband and wife team made sure to stay true to their mission of creating comfortable shoes that promote good health of the foot, leg and back.

Dansko grew from just one employee to over one hundred and thirty workers, all whom hold the Dansko philosophy close at heart. The great thing about the company is that they not only want to make a difference in terms of footwear, but they also are concerned about giving back to the community, offering employees paid time off to volunteer and contribute to a sustainable lifestyle.

Today Dansko shoes are worn by many service professionals, and are known for their comfort, yet are also considered quite fashionable. Styles include colored leather, patterned designs and even pearlized patent leather. The shoes offer built-in support that reduce fatigue and keep feet warm and protected. Dansko shoes have received rave reviews from wearers, and have even earned the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance. Dansko shoes may run a little higher price point than a standard tennis shoe, but the reliability means they’ll last longer than no-name discount shoes, and you’ll feel better wearing them. When it comes to your wellness, Dansko shoes are an investment worth making.