Florsheim Golf signs DavidLeadbetter.

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 29, 1998--Florsheim Group Inc. (Nasdaq: FLSC): David Leadbetter, internationally recognized as the world's premier golf instructor, has signed an exclusive agreement to endorse Florsheim Golf Shoes.

Florsheim will utilize Leadbetter in upcoming advertising,

point of sale, and on their highly advanced kiosk and internet site. In addition to acting as spokesperson, Leadbetter will be a valuable resource to the Florsheim Golf design team, applying his vast knowledge of the game to the development of superior golf footwear products.

The Leadbetter Academies located throughout the world combine state of the art technology with the most analytical drills available. Leadbetter will offer Florsheim merchandise at these renowned centers, and all Leadbetter Academy instructors will exclusively wear Florsheim Golf Shoes.

Leadbetter has written three instructional golf books that have sold over one million copies. Past Leadbetter students include: Nick Faldo, Greg Norman, Ernie Els, Nick Price and Bob Tway.

"I am proud to announce that David Leadbetter will be representing Florsheim Group Inc. His unique approach to teaching golf mirrors our attitude towards creating quality footwear; use the best technology available, and don't be afraid to adopt non-traditional methods," stated Charles Campbell, Chairman, President and CEO of Florsheim Group Inc.

"Dedication to hard work, quality and technology are essential to my teaching and personal philosophies," stated Leadbetter. "The Florsheim Group is the epitome of all three. Certainly footwork is a key factor of the golf swing and I believe proper footwear can only enhance a player's swing. I appreciate their confidence in me and look forward to working with them in the future."

Leadbetter will make his Florsheim debut Saturday, January 31 at the PGA Show in Orlando. He will appear from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Florsheim Golf Area - booth No. 7043.

In January of 1997 Florsheim launched the Florsheim Frogs line of men's golf shoes. The shoes, featuring superior comfort features, have widely gained distribution through pro-shops and specialty retailers. Tour professional Nick Faldo began endorsing Florsheim last year.

Florsheim Group Inc. designs, markets, manufactures and sources a diverse and extensive range of products in the middle to upper price range of the men's quality footwear market. Florsheim distributes its products in more than 6,000 department and specialty store locations worldwide and through approximately 316 company-operated specialty stores and outlet stores in North America.

CONTACT: Florsheim Group Inc., Chicago

Wes Whittingham, 312/458-2679

or

Martin E. Janis & Co. Inc., Chicago

Bev Jedynak, 312/943-1100