Norman Walsh Footwear to Be Showcased in Bolton Museum’s Landmark Exhibition

Norman Walsh, the iconic British footwear brand, is set to take the spotlight in a landmark exhibition at Bolton Museum. Titled “Reebok and Norman Walsh: Bolton’s History of the Running Shoe”, the exhibition will run from July 5, 2025 to January 18, 2026, highlighting Bolton’s world-renowned legacy in sportswear and shoemaking.

Celebrating Bolton’s Shoemaking Heritage

For more than seven decades, Norman Walsh footwear has represented craftsmanship, authenticity, and innovation in British shoemaking. The Bolton-based company has remained committed to handmade sneakers and running shoes, a tradition that has set the brand apart globally.

The new museum exhibition pays tribute not only to Walsh’s enduring legacy but also to Reebok and J.W. Foster & Sons, who together built Bolton’s global reputation for producing some of the finest athletic footwear in the world.

Exhibition Highlights

• Immersive Displays – Visitors will explore custom-built stands, wall graphics, shoe-themed props, and visual storytelling designed to bring Bolton’s shoemaking history to life.

• Community Pride – The exhibition celebrates Bolton’s unique contribution to sportswear history, showcasing how local craftsmanship shaped global athletic culture.

• Heritage Recognition – By featuring Norman Walsh shoes alongside Reebok’s story, the exhibition honors both tradition and innovation, showing how two Bolton-born brands became international names.

A Legacy Worth Showcasing

Joe Foster, co-founder of Reebok, praised the exhibition for recognizing the town’s historic role in footwear innovation. By including Norman Walsh shoes, Bolton Museum highlights the importance of preserving authentic British craftsmanship while also educating new generations about their heritage.

For fans of sports, fashion, and history, this exhibition is more than just a collection of shoes—it’s a tribute to the artistry, hard work, and cultural identity that define Bolton’s shoemaking legacy.

Final Thoughts

The Bolton Museum exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the evolution of running shoes from handmade designs to global sportswear icons. For Norman Walsh, it is a moment of pride and recognition, showcasing the brand’s unwavering commitment to tradition, quality, and authenticity.

If you’re passionate about British footwear, handmade sneakers, or the history of running shoes, this exhibition is a must-visit.