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In 2012, DeFeet turns 20 years old. While that's not an 'old' age compared to some companies that make things like shotguns or toothpaste, the period between 1992 and 2012 will be viewed in history as an extremely volatile time for American businesses. DeFeet added to the list of hardships by surviving a flood, substantial theft, and a fire that literally turned the company into a pile of ashes. DeFeet persevered, and in 2011 was awarded something it never saw coming: "Business of the Year" in North Carolina.