Once just gym or playground essentials, sneakers have evolved into powerful style symbols for Gen Z and millennials across India. No longer confined to comfort or sports, they now represent individuality, ambition, rebellion, and cultural connection.

According to experts like Kashika Malhotra, sneakers are more than fashion-they’re an expression of personality and creativity. Influenced by global streetwear trends, the Indian youth are now pairing sneakers with everything from sarees to suits.

Indian brands like Yoho are giving global sneaker trends a local twist, focusing on comfort, climate, and cultural sensibility. Meanwhile, international names like New Balance and Saucony are popular for their bold aesthetics.

The rise of reselling culture, storytelling collabs, and limited-edition drops has made sneakers collectible assets. For many, they’ve become as important as any luxury fashion item.

In the eyes of Gen Z, “sole is the new soul.” Sneakers aren’t just worn-they’re lived in, showing the world who you really are.