If you've ever hiked in India, whether it's a quick weekend to the hills or a full-on Himalayan trek, you know one thing for sure. Your shoes can either make or break your entire experience. The trail might look worthy, but without the right grip, support, and weatherproofing under your feet, even a short hike can feel like a disaster. I learned this the hard way after slipping twice on wet rocks in Munnar with what I thought were “good enough” shoes. Spoiler.
Top 10 Premium Brands For Hiking
Here are my 10 brands that have earned their place on the trail. Whether you’re an occasional hiker or a serious trekker, there’s something here for you. To make your journey memorable and easy
1. Woodland – The Reliable Old Friend
Woodland has been around forever. It’s practically a rite of passage for Indian trekkers. Their shoes are built like tanks — solid leather uppers, thick rubber soles, and the kind of construction that says “let’s walk through a forest or maybe a war zone. Yes, they can feel a bit stiff out of the box, but once they break in, they’ll go with you anywhere. I’ve seen friends wear their Woodlands for years. These aren’t just hiking shoes, they’re adventure shoes.
Why They Stand Out:
- Leather upper with padded collar
- Anti-corrosive eyelets and metal fittings
- Shock-absorbing midsole
Pros: Highly durable, great for rocky terrain
Cons: Heavier than synthetic alternatives
2. Adidas – Built for More Than Just the Gym
When people think of Adidas, they often think of gym shoes or running sneakers. But let me tell you, their Terrex line is no joke. These shoes are specifically made for hiking, with grippy soles, breathable uppers, and enough support to keep your ankles happy even on long trails. What I love most is that they’re super versatile — you can wear them on a rocky trail and still walk into a cafe without feeling like you’re wearing hiking boots from the 90s. Stylish and functional — hard combo to beat.
Why They Stand Out:
- High traction outsole
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Sock-like fit for better movement
Pros: Breathable, fast-drying, snug fit
Cons: Limited ankle support on low-cut models
3. Bacca Bucci – Indian, Rugged, and Surprisingly Cool
This one might not be on everyone’s radar yet, but it should be. Bacca Bucci is an Indian brand that’s stepping up in a big way. Their hiking shoes are tough — like, really tough — and built to handle unpredictable terrain, rain, and rough use. They’ve got a sort of tactical, military vibe that I personally like. The grip is solid, the build is sturdy, and the price point makes them accessible without feeling cheap. Perfect if you want to support local and still get quality.
Why They Stand Out:
- EVA outsole with pylon rubber
- High-ankle design for support
- Camouflage pattern for rugged aesthetics
Pros: Budget-friendly, stylish, versatile
Cons: Not fully waterproof
4. The North Face– For the Hardcore Explorer
If you’re planning something serious, like a multi-day trek in Ladakh or the Annapurna Circuit, you might want to look into The North Face. This brand is all about performance. Think lightweight materials, waterproof layers, and insane traction.
They’re not cheap, but they’re the kind of shoes that’ll stay dry even when you’re wading through snowmelt at 14,000 feet. If you're going all in on your hiking journey, these shoes will go all in with you.
5. Salomon – Performance Meets Precision
Salomon is a favorite among pro hikers and adventurers for good reason. Their shoes are engineered for traction, comfort, and long-distance hikes. If you’re doing high-altitude treks or multi-day adventures, Salomon is the brand that won’t quit on you.
Why They Stand Out:
- Contagrip outsole for multi-direction grip
- Quicklace system for one-pull tightening
- Advanced chassis for stability
Pros: Lightweight, foot-cradling comfort, anti-debris mesh
Cons: Finishing quality varies with models
6. Quechua (Decathlon) – Best Bang for Your Buck
If you’ve walked into a Decathlon store, you’ve probably already seen Quechua shoes on display. Affordable? Yes. Reliable? Also yes. Their hiking shoes may not have the flash of international brands, but they’re incredibly practical. I’ve used them on short hikes in the Sahyadris and even for city walking on rainy days. They’ve got waterproof models, ankle support, and great sole grip all at budget-friendly prices. Great for beginners or anyone who wants a solid pair without spending a fortune.
7. Red Chief – A Rugged Indian Contender
Known for their leather shoes, Red Chief has ventured into the hiking space, and the results are pretty solid. Their outdoor footwear holds up well against Indian conditions, with tough soles and decent comfort. They lean a bit more toward the urban hiker aesthetic, but don’t let that fool you, these shoes can hold their own on rough trails too.
Why They Stand Out:
- Leather quality and durability
- Comfortable soles for long walks
- Suitable for semi-urban trekking trails
8. Columbia – For the Long Haul
Columbia’s shoes feel like they were made by someone who has actually hiked through mud, rain, and sun. Their hiking shoes include features like Omni-Grip for traction and Techlite cushioning for comfort over long hours.They’re especially good for treks where you need all-day comfort, like the kind where you start walking at sunrise and don’t stop until lunch. Not ultra-lightweight, but incredibly dependable.
Why They Stand Out:
- Omni-Grip rubber sole
- Techlite midsole for superior cushioning
- Reinforced toe & heel
Pros: Lightweight, versatile, good for beginners
Cons: Less suited for extreme cold
9. Puma – Not Just for Running
Puma might not be the first name that comes to mind for hiking, but they’ve got a few gems hidden in their trail-inspired collections. While they’re more on the casual hiking side, they work well for short treks, hill walks, or spontaneous nature trails. If you want something that looks sporty and doubles as casual wear, Puma’s got options worth checking out.
10. Skechers – Comfort Over Everything
Skechers surprised me. I used to think of them as just walking shoes, but some of their outdoor styles have great support and cushioning for light to medium hikes. They’re especially good if you have foot issues or just want that plush comfort without the stiffness of heavy duty hiking boots. Not for super technical terrain, but perfect for beginner treks or long urban adventures.
Why They Stand Out:
- Air-cooled memory foam insole
- Waterproof suede & mesh upper
- Rugged outsole for grip
Pros: Affordable, ankle protection, stylish design
Cons: Not ideal for steep or snowy trails
Conclusion:
Whether you're gearing up for a weekend trek near Lonavala or preparing to scale Ladakh's high-altitude passes, choosing the right hiking footwear can elevate your experience. From international powerhouses like Columbia and Adidas to Indian stalwarts like Woodland, Wildcraft, and Bacca Bucci, the Indian market offers a diverse range of premium hiking shoes to match your needs and budget.
