Back in 1990, on a trip to Denmark to buy a horse, an entrepreneurial-spirited woman by the name of Mandy Cabot discovered the world’s most comfortable shoe. The “perfect barn shoe” – a clog – kept her comfortable through long hours of barn chores and errands. Inspired, she made plans to bring that shoe to America, sharing its comfort, confidence and opportunity with women pursuing meaningful work.
From that signature clog, a brand was born. Today, every product Dansko creates incorporates the core comfort attributes that made its original clog so iconic. Whether it’s a slip-on, a boot, or a lifestyle sneaker, each pair builds on that legacy of comfort.
It’s a philosophy that resonates with Stout’s Footwear, which has been serving customers since 1886 in Carmel and the greater Indianapolis area. For generations, the Stout family has built a business around service, care and iconic footwear. Stephanie and Brad Stout, now at the helm, continue that tradition with a team who knows their customers by name and takes pride in finding the right fit for every foot.
The connection between Dansko and Stout’s is more than a business partnership — it’s a shared belief in quality, community and making a difference. Today, women wear Dansko shoes as a badge of their individual values and a nod to the work they’re doing in their communities — work that brings something positive to the world in bold but everyday steps. From Dansko’s heritage collection to its newest designs, the slip-on-and-go, easy-to-adjust styles give people a few moments back in their busy days.
Dansko’s own story took another remarkable turn in 2012, when it became 100% employee-owned through an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). In a move rare in business, Mandy Cabot sold the company to the very people who helped her build it — her employees. Today, Dansko remains woman-founded, women-led and always women-celebrated.
For more than 20 years, Dansko has proudly partnered with Stout’s Footwear to bring its shoes to central Indiana. Each style — from the classic clog to on-trend looks, tailored interpretations and versatile lifestyle sneakers — features Dansko Natural Arch Technology® — anatomical contours designed to evenly distribute pressure across the foot. Many styles also carry the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health.
This September 18-21, Stout’s Footwear will host its Dansko Event — an opportunity to explore the collection, meet Dansko Sales Representative Jane Walters, get expert fitting advice and discover your perfect pair. The team is ready to welcome you, share their knowledge and help you step into comfort with purpose.
