What is “Keds”, the original and classic sneaker brand that popularized the word “sneaker”?

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What is "Keds", the original and classic sneaker brand that popularized the word "sneaker"?

Keds” is a master of canvas sneakers. It is a brand that boasts high popularity among sneaker collectors, and is a long-established shoe brand in the United States that is said to have spread the word “sneaker” to the world. It has been loved by both men and women for many years for its simple design and comfortable fit. In this issue, we focus on Keds, and introduce the features and popular sneaker models along with a surprisingly little-known story.

What is “Keds”?

Keds was founded in 1917 by the “US Rubber Company. Keds is known as the “Keds of the East and Converse of the West,” and has made a name for itself as a standard American sneaker brand. The brand name is derived from the Latin words “Kids” and “Peds. When the brand was first introduced, it was priced at 1/10th of the market price for sneakers at the time, and gained popularity for its quality and reasonable prices. The brand mainly offers canvas sneakers and deck shoes, and its recent use of Taylor Swift for promotions has further accelerated its popularity. Although the brand is primarily a women’s shoe brand, men’s sizes are of course also available.

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Keds introduced the word “sneakers” to the world!

The US Rubber Company, which created Keds, was established by purchasing the Goodyear Shoe Company, which was founded by Charles Goodyear, the creator of the vulcanized manufacturing method used in Converse, Vans, etc. As of 1900, the company had already sold 100 types of rubber shoes. In 1917, when the term “sneakers” did not yet exist, the brand began producing athletic shoes, which led to the birth of “Keds. Keds” was born in 1917, when the term “sneakers” did not yet exist. At the time, Keds was mainly developing tennis shoes and adopted the catchphrase “shoes that can sneak up on you quietly” in its advertisements. This led to this type of shoe being called a “sneaker,” and it is said that Keds introduced the word “sneaker” to the world. In other words, Keds is one of the most important brands in the history of sneakers.

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Keds has become a classic shoe brand known as “Keds in the East and Converse in the West.

In 1949, the “PROKeds” were introduced as a professional version of the Keds. In 1974, the brand blatantly out-weighed Converse, saying, “ProKeds are lighter than All-Stars!” In 1974, the company ran a unique American-style advertisement that blatantly showed its awareness of Converse, saying, “Pro Keds are lighter than All-Stars! In the 1970s, when Keds entered the Japanese market, fashion magazines in Japan called the brand “Keds in the East, Converse in the West” because there were many Keds fans on the East Coast, especially in New York, and many Converse fans on the West Coast, mainly in California. In the 1980s and later, the trend shifted to high-tech sneakers by Nike, Adidas, and others, but recently, the sneakers have been gaining attention again from people who want to wear minimalist sneakers or sneakers that are different from the rest of the crowd, and their popularity is reviving.

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Three characteristics of the long-established shoe brand “Keds” sneakers

Keds has been manufacturing sneakers for a long time. Keds has been manufacturing sneakers for a long time, and even now they are gaining popularity with their authentic design and functionality without making any significant changes since then. Let us explain the three characteristics of Keds sneakers.

Characteristic of Keds sneakers (1) “Retro rubber sole with high grip

Keds is a brand that originally came out of the US Rubber Company, a well-known brand of rubber shoes, and the attention to detail in its rubber soles is considerable. The design is reminiscent of the calendar sole patterns that have been sold in the market for a long time. The combination of this authentic design and high grip functionality is the key to Keds’ high popularity even today.

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Keds sneakers feature #2: “Sponge-lined insoles that provide exceptional comfort.

Low-tech sneakers tend to be less comfortable than high-tech sneakers. However, the Keds insole provides a high level of cushioning despite being a low-tech sneaker, thanks to the use of a sponge insole. The outer material of the insole is made of durable canvas, making it a pair that can be worn hard. The ease with which they can be worn barefoot in the summer is also attractive, making them a useful item throughout the year.

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Keds sneakers feature (3) “A subtle logo design.

Keds sneakers are characterized by their simple design. The Keds brand logo is subtly placed on these sneakers so as not to disrupt the Keds-like atmosphere. The logo tag on the upper, the logo on the heel, and the Keds’ classic “Champion Originals” logo on the shoe tongue. The minimalist design of this pair of sneakers is not distracted by the placement of the logo, making it a pair that can be worn in a more mature manner. The Keds logo font also creates a classic, retro atmosphere. These sneakers are perfect for those looking for a mature, low-tech sneaker.

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Keds’ popular models are here! Introducing 6 models from simple designs to unique sneakers

Currently, Keds mainly offers women’s sizes, but we picked up a model that is also available in men’s sizes. Why not take a classic American shoe with a long history and give your feet an authentic look?

Keds popular model ① “CHAMPION OXFORD


The Keds classic is this one! Simple, easy-to-wear, good sneakers!”

The Keds Champion Oxford is a Keds staple. The simple design gives it a stylish and sophisticated look, making it easy to match with a variety of styles. It is hard to believe that it has been on the market for more than 90 years, yet it still has an appealing appearance that fits in with today’s styles. The inside-feet design makes these sneakers perfect for traditional styles, even though they are casual sneakers. The Keds logo placed here and there adds a subtle accent. The sponge insole is soft and comfortable even when worn barefoot. The silver eyelets add an urban look.

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Keds Popular Model 2 “Royal America Hi


” A classic ProKeds model loved by many NBA players!

The “Royal America High” was worn by the Keds in the East and Converse in the West, and was loved by many NBA players in the 1960s. In the 70’s, the shoes were worn by Ivy Leaguers, and were also used in the fashion scene. The two lines on the outsole add a unique Keds accent to this pair. The thick outsole is a stylish model that will subtly enhance your style.

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Keds Popular Model 3 “Royal America Lo

The “Royal America Low” shines with the brand’s iconic line on the side of the outsole . The Royal America Low is a low-cut version of the Royal America High, and its simple, royal design adds a sense of comfort to your feet. The authentic design of the Royal America Low will definitely set you apart from others. If you want a simple sneaker but are looking for a model that you can’t find anywhere else, check it out!

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Keds Popular Model 4 “Royal Plus Suede

” The suede material gives this pair a mature look and feel!

The “Royal Plus Suede” has a suede upper that gives it a high quality feel. The two lines on the side of the shoe are distinctive, and the design is perfect for pants style. The suede material adds a mature impression, while the side lines add a casual element to this excellent item. This is the perfect pair for those who want something a little different from other Keds models.

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Keds Popular Model 5 “Ace Leather


“Add a touch of luxury to your feet with these leather sneakers!”

The “Ace Leather” sneaker is one of Keds’ most popular canvas models, but it exudes a sense of luxury that is a cut above the rest. The low volume outsole, sharp form, and leather material used for the upper give it an elegant finish that matches traditional styles. It is a fashionable model that can be worn as an offshoot of a neat style. The all-white color gives it a sophisticated impression and will complete a style that is one rank above the rest.

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