About

Welcome to the New Payless

 

Style, Comfort, and Value for Every Step of the Journey.

 

For over 60 years, Payless has been more than just a shoe store—we’ve been a part of your first day of school, your first job interview, and your weekend adventures. Today, we are reimagining what it means to shop for shoes, combining the value you remember with the modern styles you crave.

👟 Our Mission

 

To Democratize Fashion. We believe that style shouldn’t be a luxury. Our goal is simple: to provide trend-right footwear and accessories for every member of the family, at a price that leaves room in the budget for life’s other necessities. Whether you need rugged boots for work, slip-ons for the playground, or heels for a night out, we believe everyone deserves to walk with confidence.

🕰️ Our History: The “Self-Select” Revolution

 

It started with a radical idea in 1956.

Founded in Topeka, Kansas, by cousins Louis and Shaol Pozez, Payless changed the retail game forever. Before Payless, customers had to wait for a salesperson to bring shoes out from a back room.

We introduced the “Self-Select” model—placing shoe boxes right on the sales floor, organized by size. This allowed customers to browse freely, try on what they liked, and find the perfect fit on their own terms. It was a revolutionary concept that prioritized customer independence and affordability, eventually turning Payless into a household name across the globe.

🚀 Payless Today: A New Chapter

 

The retail world has changed, and so have we. While we cherish our legacy, we are focused firmly on the future.

  • Digital First: We have optimized our online shopping experience to make finding your size and style easier than ever.

  • Global Reach: We continue to serve millions of customers across Latin America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa.

  • North American Return: We are thrilled to be reconnecting with US customers through our revamped e-commerce platform and a new generation of brick-and-mortar concept stores.

👞 Our Brands

 

We are the home of the brands you know and trust, offering durability without the premium price tag.

  • Airwalk: Iconic skate and street style.

  • American Eagle: Casual, classic, and cool (under license).

  • Comfort Plus: Technology designed for all-day wearability.

  • Smartfit: Durable, growth-friendly designs for toddlers and kids.

🤝 Our Promise to You

 

Whether you are clicking “Add to Cart” or walking into one of our new stores, our promise remains the same as it was in 1956:

Great shoes. Great value. No compromise.

Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey. Here’s to the next step.