Children’s Footwear Startup Jbrds Raises $500,000 — Retail Bum

Children’s footwear brand Jbrds has raised $500,000 from unnamed investors at a valuation of $5 million.

The brand, which was co-founded by podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Jay LeBow, offers anatomically designed footwear with features such as suede bottoms for added grip, vertical stitching, and velcro straps to prevent circulation problems.

“After reviewing hundreds of X-rays and evaluating the current offering of generic kids’ footwear, it was clear there was a need in the footwear industry Jbrds could fill,” said LeBow, who serves as the brand’s chief product officer. “Now, every child can start on the right foot with shoes designed for their developmental needs and crafted with clinical expertise.”

The brand’s website points to its use of sock-like upper and injection-molded support cages for promoting the healthy development of feet and the lower extremities. The design supports the weight-bearing structure of children’s developing feet while uniquely stabilizing their still-forming heel, making it easier to stand, balance, and walk.

The latest investment follows the brand’s completion of a seed round, which came after the launch of its first patent-pending Stand2Walk product line in July 2022.