5 countries where sneakers are cheaper than India

It all comes down to taxes and logistics. When a pair of sneakers is imported into India, it gets hit with customs duties, GST, and distribution costs. Add retail markups on top, and suddenly a shoe that costs $90 in the U.S. is priced at ₹12,000 here.

Limited supply and growing demand also play a part. With sneaker culture booming in India, but fewer options available, resellers often charge even more, especially for limited editions or hyped drops.

Tips for shopping sneakers abroad

If you’re planning a trip or know someone who is, here’s how to get the most value out of international sneaker shopping:

Shop during sale seasons: Time your buys around Black Friday, end-of-season sales, or holiday discounts.

Visit outlet malls: You can find great deals on last season’s stock or discontinued models.

Use tax refunds: Many countries let tourists claim back VAT or GST, saving you even more.

Buy in bulk: If you’re shopping for family or friends too, you might get extra discounts.

Plan ahead: Know your size in international brands to avoid returns or wrong fits.