India has always had an unusual relationship with sneakers. While the West has embraced sneakers as a staple of street culture and fashion, India has taken a little longer but is now on the same path. However, over the past decade, the Indian sneaker scene has exploded, and more men are now opting for sneakers as their go-to choice for everyday wear. The younger crowd plays a big role in making India a big sneaker market.
Sneakers now come in all shapes, sizes, and price points. You can find them for as low as INR 500 and as high as Lakhs. For the general crowd, the price range of INR 1000 to INR 8000 is ideal when purchasing sneakers. You can get sneakers from nearly all brands in this price range, whether it’s your only pair or you’re building a sneaker collection. Above this price range, it’s mostly enthusiasts and their passion for sneakers.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the some history of men’s sneakers in India, current trends, and what the ahead for the Indian sneaker scene.
A Brief History of Men’s Sneakers in India
Until the end of the last century, sneakers were not a widespread choice in India. Traditional dress shoes and sandals dominated the market, while sneakers were viewed as casual, sporty footwear appropriate for athletic activity or weekend errands. However, things started changing when international brands like Nike and Adidas entered the Indian market. They introduced stylish, high-quality sneakers that appealed to the younger generation.
One of the earliest sneaker styles to gain popularity in India was the Nike Air Jordan. After it arrived in India, Air Jordan, already a hit in international markets, became a status symbol among young Indians who wanted to emulate their favorite basketball stars. The sleek design, durability, and celebrity endorsements made it a hit among urban youth. Though it was always an expensive pair of sneakers, global brands had started releasing similar stylish sneakers at much more affordable prices that were accepted by young guys and guys who were into fashion.
Basketball shoes continue to hold a special place in the hearts of Indian sneaker enthusiasts. They are highly sought after due to their performance features and association with professional athletes. Additionally, the rise of hip-hop culture in India has fueled the demand for chunky, bold sneakers like the Yeezy Boost 350 or Balenciaga Triple S.
Brands like Reebok and Puma also gained traction during this time, offering affordable and stylish alternatives to the premium-priced Nike and Adidas sneakers.
Over the years, sneakers have become more than just a fashion statement in India. They’ve become a cultural phenomenon, reflecting the country’s evolving attitudes towards fashion, lifestyle, and subjective expression. Today, men’s sneakers come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and price points, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Current Trends in Men’s Sneakers in India
International giants like Nike, Adidas, and Puma dominate the Indian market, offering a vast collection of styles and technologies. Certain sneakers from all these brands have been trendy at some point in time.
Just like the Western countries, different styles of sneakers have been trendy and appealed to the Indian public at different times. In recent years, we’ve seen clean minimal sneakers, chunky sneakers, sock sneakers, etc in trend.
A notable trend is the growing interest in retro or vintage-inspired sneakers. Classic silhouettes from the past, such as the New Balance 550 and Nike Air Max 90 are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. These timeless designs are popular among millennials seeking comfort, versatility, and nostalgic flair.
Influence of Social Media on the Indian Sneaker Scene
Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube play a significant role in shaping the sneaker culture in India. We’ve many enthusiasts using these platforms to showcase their collections, share news about new releases, and connect with fellow sneakerheads.
Influencers and bloggers often post pictures and reviews of their favorite sneakers, helping spread awareness and influence purchase decisions. Furthermore, social media challenges and events encourage people to proudly display their sneakers and engage with others who share their passion.
Rising Local Brands
Sneaker prices have skyrocketed in recent years, some of them are now twice the price they were 3 years ago. Sneakers from international brands can sometimes be pricy, and this is where the local brands come in. Home-grown footwear brands are emerging with fresh designs, competitive pricing, and innovative materials. As the ‘budget segment’ market is growing, new local brands have a high chance of making it big with the right marketing and pricing.
Future
As India continues to evolve into a major player in the global sneaker industry, several factors indicate a promising future for men’s sneakers. Brands are expanding their product lines to cater to local preferences. Many limited-edition collabs are now available in the country. Brands like Converse, which left India temporarily, is now fully operational in the country with an official website and new sneakers. It shows how big brands have started taking India seriously.
Because of the booming economy and large population, we might see more global brands coming into the country in the near future.
There’s also a great push for sustainability within the footwear industry. Many manufacturers now incorporate eco-friendly materials and production methods into their processes, resonating well with environmentally conscious Indian consumers. This shift toward responsible consumption might change the way sneakers are designed, produced, and purchased.
Conclusion
Sneakers in India have come a long way since their humble beginnings. From being considered mere sports footwear to becoming symbols of style and self-expression, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
As India’s economy grows and consumer power increases, expect the sneaker industry to do well further. With exciting developments on the horizon, including advancements in technology, sustainability, and creative collaborations, the future looks bright for India’s sneaker scene. Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead or just starting your collection, there’s never been a better time to join the Indian sneaker community.