A Missouri footwear manufacturer is trying to keep the shoe industry on its toes.
The Sullivan, Missouri-based lifestyle sneaker brand mōshn produces durable footwear that’s designed for active women, especially those who spend long hours on their feet. And with a specialized design, the experience is like few shoes on the market.
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mōshn’s shoes are made for women and versatile enough for everyday wear—anything from a post-workout stretching session to a trip to the farmer’s market. Interestingly, the company has gained a foothold with workers in the health care industry. Nurses and doctors working long shifts need shoes with excellent cushioning, arch support, and materials that are easy to clean. The company designs shoes with what it calls its “dynamic motion technology,” which lifts a person’s weight from the toes and shifts it to the heels. The wearer stands straight and tall while propelling them forward—almost like a built-in pep in your step.
“We see healthcare workers purchasing sneakers made for running and jumping, not for standing and walking on hard surfaces all day,” says Victoria Feldman, mōshn’s marketing director. “Their comfort systems wear down easily. Not ours. We are proven to last 3-5 times longer than those other sneakers.”
The proof is in the data, Feldman says. The company asked independent testing lab Heeluxe to compare wear and tear among their sneakers with three leading sneaker brands. The results revealed that mōshn sneakers lasted 975 miles to cushioning loss while the next best shoe only lasted 288 miles.
Health benefits aside, another unique business component is that mōshn is independently-owned and manufactured approximately an hour southwest of St. Louis. The location offers logistical advantages for regional retail partners and consumers, while reducing shipping times and distribution costs nationwide.
“Our location in the heart of the country fosters a close-knit, family-like work environment, which enhances teamwork, communication, and a shared sense of purpose,” says Jennifer Whitchurch, vice president of operations. “Our team members enjoy strong ties to the community and the company, which leads to a higher retention rate and a more dedicated workforce.”
As mōshn grows, the team plans to expand its reach and education efforts. “We love meeting the community,” Feldman said. “Our plan is to continue pop-ups and collabs with other small businesses throughout St. Louis and spread the importance of foot health to women.”