Authenticity's Top Shoe Brands

May 20, 2025

Welcome to Authenticity Report - Issue #72

This week, we're lacing up with purpose as the Authenticity 500 Index spotlights the footwear brands earning real trust—where icons like Vans, Nike, and Birkenstock prove that walking the walk means more than just great design.

Our Roundup we explore how authenticity drives connection—whether it's brands getting real, AI supporting (not replacing) intimacy, or teens finding truth in peer-made social content.

This Week’s Report
—> Top Footwear Brands
—> Tell Us
—> Takeaways
—> Authenticity Roundup
—> Top Voices

What Do You Think? We are reshaping and expanding our Authenticity platform, we'd love to have you on board and contribute! Email us directly at [email protected] 

Read Time: 4.5 mins

| Top Footwear Brands

When it comes to brand authenticity, some footwear companies aren't just making noise—they're making a real impact. The Authenticity 500 Index, ranking the world's most authentic brands based on our community's choices and each brand's transparency, consistency, and social responsibility, includes some of the most iconic names in shoes.

From Vans and Nike to Birkenstock and On, these brands earn trust with every step. Here's where they land on the list.

Top Footwear Brands on Authenticity 500 Index

3. Vans
4. Nike
16. adidas
21. TOMS
24. Birkenstock
25. Arc'teryx
28. Jordan
46. Converse
53. New Balance
68. Chrome Industries
73. Brooks Running
105. Red Wing Shoe
154. Under Armour
177. Zamberlan
225. On
265. Skechers
296. OluKai
302. Rainbow Sandals
312. Reebok
360. Puma
371. Sorel
426. Hoka
525. Havaianas

**Ranking indicates position on Authenticity 500 Index

The Authenticity 500 Index is the definitive ranking of the most authentic brands in the world. The index is based on a survey of thousands of people, and it measures brands on factors such as transparency, consistency, and social responsibility.

| Tell Us

Did Your Favorite Footwear Brand Make The List?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

| Takeaways

  • Trust Is Built Through Consistency
    Top-ranked brands like Vans and Nike stay authentic by consistently delivering on their values—reliability builds long-term loyalty.

  • Transparency Matters More Than Perfection
    Consumers reward honesty and openness, even over flawless messaging. Being real earns more trust than trying to be polished.

  • Social Responsibility Strengthens Brand Relevance
    Footwear leaders on the Index don’t just sell products—they show up for communities and causes. Purpose-driven action resonates.

  • Authenticity Is a Competitive Advantage
    Whether you're building a personal brand or leading a business, authenticity isn’t a trend—it’s a powerful differentiator that cuts through the noise.

| Time To Choose

What Brands Are Authentic? It is time once again to choose which brands you feel are authentic. Please tell us via our survey (it takes less than 5 minutes to fill out).

The results of your decisions will be part of our annual Authenticity 500 Index rankings, which you will receive for free.

| Authenticity Roundup

This week's curated reads from web

 branding
•  Honesty and Authenticity Now Key for Brands

New research from TRA shows consumers demand real, unpolished authenticity from brands, valuing honesty over hype and expecting meaningful support in their personal progress.

Read More → adnews

 culture
•  Authenticity First: Rethinking AI in Online Dating

Hinge CEO Justin McLeod urged to prioritize authenticity over automation by designing AI tools that enhance — not replace — real human connection in online dating.

Read More → dating news

social media
•  Teens Rate Social Media as Most Authentic Media Form

A UCLA study reveals teens see social media—especially platforms like YouTube and TikTok—as the most authentic media form, valuing peer-created content over polished, adult-produced entertainment.

Read More → hugonews

| Tools

We are building out our Tools section of Authenticity.co with insights to help you master business basics and apply authentic strategies for personal and brand success.

For a limited time, these will be available for free to our subscribers.

• Authenticity 500 - Top 5 Brand Recap
We analyze the top five authentic brands—Patagonia, Ben & Jerry’s, Vans, Nike, and In-N-Out Burger—to uncover the secrets behind their success.

• Authenticity 500 - Brand Takeaways
Why Are Some Brands Authentic? Key Takeaways from top 5 authentic brands to uncover ways to apply their secrets to your brand.

• Enhancing Your Personal Authenticity - Worksheet
Personal authenticity is about being true to yourself and others. It’s a journey of self-discovery and alignment with your values. This worksheet will guide you to reflect on your authenticity and develop traits like being real, original, truthful, honest, genuine, showing integrity, and practicing transparency. Each section includes exercises and actionable steps to help you grow.

| Past Reports

| Top Voices

What Does Authenticity Mean To You?

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Our weekly guide explores the meaning of Authenticity as it relates to our personal and professional lives and the brands we connect with, bringing you the latest insights, curated news, and guest authors.

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