HIGH PERFORMANCE; MICHAEL TOSCHI TAKES A LUXE APPROACH TO THE MEN'S CATEGORY, OFFERING SHOES THAT DEFY THE STAID REPUTATION THAT COMFORT MIGHT BRING TO MIND.(Toschi)(Interview)

Footwear News, July, 2006 by Schneider-Levy, Barbara

Byline: Barbara Schneider-Levy

When Michael Toschi launched his eponymous men's line in 1998, he knew the high-end market was the place to be. "My goal has always been to build a brand rather than to sell shoes, and to do it in the high-end luxury arena," Toschi said. But the designer didn't stop there. He sought to marry quality and comfort to create what he calls the "performance luxury" category.

Toschi's line of $350-to-$650 shoes were sold in 100 shops nationwide until four Nordstrom doors began giving him shelf space last year. "We now have a super-loyal cult following," he boasted. The San Carlos, Calif.- based business has experienced 15 percent to 40 percent growth each year since its launch, Toschi said, and is on pace to be 15 percent ahead...