Deckers Brands

Deckers Outdoor Corporation

Company type	Public
Industry	Footwear
Founded	1973
Founder	Doug Otto, Karl F. Lopker
Headquarters	Goleta, California , United States
Area served	Worldwide
Products	Footwear (UGG, Teva, Hoka, Koolaburra)
Number of employees	5500 (2025)

Deckers Outdoor Corporation, operating under the trade name Deckers Brands, is a U.S.-based designer and distributor of footwear, founded in 1973 with its headquarters located in Goleta, California. The company's brand portfolio encompasses well-known names including UGG, Teva, Hoka, and Koolaburra. The enterprise was initiated by business partners Doug Otto and Karl F. Lopker.

History

The origins trace back to 1973 when Karl Lopker crafted flip-flops that were sold at craft fairs along the West Coast. In 1975, Doug Otto coined the name "Deckers," inspired by Hawaiian slang referring to the sandals’ layered construction. Deckers broadened its offerings in 1985 by securing a license for Teva sandals and subsequently purchased Teva’s patents and trademarks in 2002.

In 1993, the company went public on the NASDAQ, adopting the corporate identity Deckers Outdoor Corporation while acquiring Simple Shoes. Two years later, in 1995, Deckers acquired UGG Holdings, which surged in popularity following its feature on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2003.

Deckers continued expanding through acquisitions: MOZO Shoes was added in 2010 but divested by 2015; Sanuk shoes were acquired in 2011 and later sold to Canadian sportswear firm Lolë; Hoka One One joined the portfolio in 2013; and Koolaburra was purchased in 2015 and subsequently incorporated into the UGG brand.

UGG

Known for their sheepskin uppers combined with wool interiors and tanned outer surfaces, UGG boots cater to both male and female consumers. The brand’s introduction to the U.S. market occurred in 1979 through surfer Brian Smith, earning global recognition. UGG remains Deckers’ leading source of revenue within the luxury fashion segment.

Hoka

Established in Annecy, France, in 2009, Hoka focuses on running shoes characterized by oversized midsoles that emphasize maximalist cushioning. After being acquired by Deckers in 2013, Hoka has grown its presence in the athletic footwear sector by sponsoring elite runners and competitive events.

Teva

Created by geophysicist Mark Thatcher in 1984 to fulfill the need for appropriate river footwear, Teva pioneered the first sports sandal featuring a patented nylon ankle strap system. Deckers began licensing Teva’s manufacturing rights in 1985 and fully acquired Teva’s patents and trademarks by 2002. Teva’s product line is distinguished by rugged soles with built-in arch support and antimicrobial features designed for outdoor activity enthusiasts.

Koolaburra

Initially founded in 1991 as a sheepskin footwear importer, Koolaburra was brought under Deckers’ ownership in 2015 and integrated into the UGG brand family. Although its products were produced internationally, operations appear to have ceased as of March 31, 2025.

Financials and Operations

By 2025, Deckers Brands reports annual revenues of $4.99 billion, with operating income reaching $1.18 billion and net income totaling $966 million. The company maintains a global footprint with 179 retail locations and employs roughly 5,500 individuals. Its strategic acquisitions combined with a diverse brand lineup contribute to its competitive standing and ongoing expansion within the worldwide footwear market.