WSS

WSS is a specialty footwear retailer that has grown from a single Los Angeles store in 1984 to a network of 151 locations as of November 2025. The company began by offering affordable athletic, casual, and work shoes, building a reputation for serving diverse urban communities, particularly across California and the broader Southwest. Over the years, WSS has expanded into Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado, maintaining a focus on high-visibility retail sites in densely populated neighborhoods.

A significant milestone in WSS’s history was its acquisition by Foot Locker, Inc. in August 2021. This partnership has allowed WSS to accelerate its growth and refine its site selection process, drawing on Foot Locker’s resources and expertise. Despite the change in ownership, WSS continues to operate under its own brand and maintains its distinct merchandising approach.

In the past five years, WSS has actively pursued new store openings in both urban and suburban markets, broadening its reach beyond its original footprint. The brand is recognized for its sizable store portfolio and consistent expansion, with formats suited to strip centers, freestanding buildings, and power centers. WSS’s approach to real estate emphasizes locations that offer strong visibility and access in areas with high foot traffic, supporting its ability to attract a wide range of customers.

WSS’s credibility is reinforced by its longstanding presence in the footwear market, its connection to a major parent company, and its ongoing commitment to growth. The company’s evolution reflects a blend of local market expertise and national retail strength, positioning it as a reliable anchor for retail developments in priority markets throughout the Southwest and select national locations.