Once dominated by global giants like Nike and Adidas, the Indian footwear market has exploded with homegrown innovation. Thanks to the D2C wave, a new breed of brands is stepping up to build sneakers for the street-smart, culturally-rooted, and design-conscious Indian consumer.
From edgy hand-painted kicks to value-driven minimalism, these startups are rewriting the rules, one pair at a time 🧼✨
🏋️️ Gully Labs
Born from the heart of India's hip-hop and streetwear scene, Gully Labs makes sneakers that feel like a mixtape for your feet. Bold, expressive, and urban. Founded by Ankit Jhamb, Gully Labs was bootstrapped and has grown organically through community-first drops and collabs.
Mid-range, with most pairs between ₹2,500 - ₹4,000. Limited editions drive exclusivity. Gully Vibe Pack — features graffiti-inspired designs and padded high-tops. https://discover.vouch.social/reviews-ratings/gullylabs
🌟 Verdict: Perfect for streetwear lovers who want their sneakers loud, proud, and rooted in culture.
🎨 Banjaaran
Each Banjaaran sneaker is a wearable piece of art. Think hand-painted stories, limited drops, and one-of-a-kind luxury. Founded by Aashka Mehta, the brand has been self-funded and grown through design-forward storytelling and earned media.
Premium, ranging from ₹9,000 to ₹15,000+, for handcrafted limited editions. The Blue Lotus Hand-Painted Leather Sneaker — equal parts statement and sculpture. https://discover.vouch.social/reviews-ratings/banjaaranstudio
🚀 Verdict: For collectors, fashion-forward creatives, or anyone who wants their footwear to be the conversation starter.
🚜 RapidBox
Affordable, accessible, and designed for everyday hustle. RapidBox focuses on no-fuss sneaker drops that look good without breaking the bank. Founded by Dilip Sehti and Achal Choudhary, RapidBox has secured funding from Roots Ventures and others.
Budget-friendly, typically between ₹1,200 - ₹2,500. Men's Chunky Sneakers — dad-core meets Gen Z.
✅ Verdict: Great entry-point brand for students, casual sneakerheads, and value-conscious shoppers.
🌺 The Quirky Naari
Unapologetically bold, feminine, and fiercely original. The Quirky Naari creates sneakers with hand-painted flair and big personality — especially for women. Founded by Rupal Gupta, bootstrapped with a mission to make fashion fun and fearless.
Moderate to premium, ranging ₹3,500 - ₹6,000 for custom work. Pop Culture Customs — from Bollywood to Taylor Swift themes, it's all here. https://discover.vouch.social/reviews-ratings/thequirkynaari
🌈 Verdict: Ideal for sneakerheads who want their shoes to scream individuality.
🏅 Bacca Bucci
Gritty, edgy, and performance-driven — Bacca Bucci offers street-inspired sneakers for those who move fast and live louder. Founded by Ashish Chhabra, operating independently with a high-volume D2C model.
Affordable to mid-range, usually ₹1,500 - ₹4,000. High-Top Combat Sneakers — functional street style with an attitude.
📈 Verdict: For urban warriors who want rugged design with mass appeal.
📊 Final Thoughts
India's footwear game is heating up — and these five D2C brands are kicking the global giants where it hurts: in design, culture, and price.
Whether you want affordable flair or handcrafted luxury, there's an Indian brand ready to lace you up 🧼🇮🇳
Want to explore more reviews and see what real users are saying about these brands? Head to 🔗 discover.vouch.social and start your scroll!