Skechers was founded in 1992 in Manhattan Beach, California and has grown to become the third largest athletic footwear brand in the United States behind Nike and Adidas. Founder Robert Greenberg had previously founded L.A. Gear in 1978. Initially the focus for Skechers was casual footwear and the early products were utility-style boots and skate shoes. The company diversified to include athletic styles for men, women, and children. Using technologies from their Athletic range, Skechers recently launched into Utility footwear, creating athletically inspired footwear for professionals in the workplace. In particular, Women in the workplace are familiar with the Skechers brand having worn the brand for leisure and exercise.