Investors want their portfolio to have stocks with a track record of better-than-expected results, surging share price and a favorable recommendation, and Skechers USA Inc. SKX is one such pick satisfying these criteria. So, is the stock part of your portfolio? If not, then this is the right time to invest in it. Skechers flaunts a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) with a VGM Score of “B,” which clearly speaks of the stock’s inherent strength. Shares of this designer, developer, marketer, and distributor of footwear have advanced roughly 11% year to date, of which approximately 9% growth was registered just after the release of its first-quarter 2016 results on Apr 21. Skechers commenced 2016 on a high note on the back of a sturdy performance at its international wholesale business. The company delivered first-quarter earnings of 63 cents a share that comfortably beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 53 cents, and surged from 37 cents earned in the year-ago quarter. In the trailing four quarters, the company outperformed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by an average of 21%. Following Skechers’ sturdy performance, the Zacks Consensus Estimate witnessed an uptrend as analysts raised their estimates. Analysts polled by Zacks are convinced about the stock’s upbeat performance in the future. Over the past 7 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.11 and $2.54 for 2016 and 2017 has jumped 4 cents and 5 cents, respectively. With increased focus on the new line of products, cost containment, inventory management, a global distribution platform and sturdy backlogs, the company remains confident of sustaining its growth momentum. Management is focused on product innovation, additional Skechers store openings, and increasing distribution channels by entering into international distribution agreements to boost sales and profitability. Skechers has been steadily gaining ground by offering stylish and casual shoes at a more compelling price than conventional athletic brands. The company has benefited from the so-called athleisure trend that has been sweeping the retail sector in the U.S. Also, the growing preference for cheaper shoes in the nation is boosting the company’s market share. Other Favorably Ranked Stocks Investors interested in the retail space may consider other well-ranked stocks such as American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. AEO and Express Inc. EXPR, both sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), and Abercrombie & Fitch Co. ANF, holding a Zacks Rank #2. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report >>Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report ABERCROMBIE (ANF): Free Stock Analysis Report AMER EAGLE OUTF (AEO): Free Stock Analysis Report EXPRESS INC (EXPR): Free Stock Analysis Report SKECHERS USA-A (SKX): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research