Better than expected first quarter comps gave confidence that Big Foot is making good progress on CEO Mary Dillon’s Lace Up strategic initiatives, including an improving pipeline of new product from Nike and other key partners.

Caleres net income dropped 12% to $30,798,000 from $34,972,000 in the first quarter on total sales that inched down 1% to $659,198,000 from $662,734,000, despite a small improvement from Famous Footwear.

The footbed sandal maker raised its revenue guidance following a strong performance in the fiscal second quarter ended Mar. 31, now expecting 19% growth to €1.77 to €1.78 billion compared to the prior guide of €1.74 to €1.76 billion.

The mass merchant said that sales of active apparel accounted for the majority of the overall sales decline in the quarter as lapping last year’s elevated clearance activity was a major headwind.

Choe, who departed Lululemon earlier this month after six years as chief product officer, will join VFC as global brand president of its struggling Vans brand in late July.

Posting the first positive comp in two years, revenues at Gap, Inc.’s women’s active brand increased 2% to $329 million from $321 million, with same store sales up 5%, lapping a 13% drop last year.