A front-page story in FN’s inaugural edition, which debuted on Oct. 6, 1945, discussed price increases in the men’s shoe market during the post-World War II period. It was an issue frequently covered by the then-weekly newspaper during an era defined by inflation. 

Eighty years later, the pricing conundrum is again front and center — this time in our 24/7 digital coverage — as the dramatic impact of President Donald Trump’s tariff policy continues to unfold.

Together, FN and the shoe industry have faced numerous trials over the past 80 years, including wars in Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf, the Sept. 11 attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, political and racial unrest — and multiple recessions. 

While much has changed since the earliest days of the publication’s existence, FN’s commitment to covering the big players and burning issues has stayed the same. 

In the weeks ahead, we will unpack the key themes that have dominated since Day One, from the retail revolution to merger mania to the sneaker boom to the relationship between shoes and pop culture.

We’ll also share some sage advice from the industry’s most innovative founders and star designers. And spotlight some of the legendary families that have built this business from the ground up. 

Stay tuned for a look back at eight memorable decades.