A Complete Guide for Beginners, Himalayan Trekkers & Budget Travelers
Finding the best shoes for trekking can be confusing—especially if you’re a beginner, planning a Himalayan trek, or simply looking for a budget-friendly option. With hundreds of brands, different materials, confusing grip levels, and price ranges, most trekkers end up choosing the wrong pair.
This guide will help you make the right choice based on terrain, comfort, durability, and your trekking goals.
Let’s dive into the top trekking shoes in India for every type of traveler.
⭐ Quick Answer (Featured Snippet Optimized)
Which are the best shoes for trekking in India?
The best shoes for trekking in India are those that offer strong grip, ankle support, waterproof protection, and lightweight comfort. Top choices include Quechua MH100, Woodland G 40777, Wildcraft Hypagrip, and Columbia Redmond depending on your budget and trek difficulty.
Table of Contents
🥾 Top 10 Best Shoes for Trekking in India (2025)
Below are the top picks based on comfort, grip, durability, weight, and price.
1. Quechua MH100 — Best Overall for Beginners
Best for: beginner trekkers, college students, day hikes
Price Range: Budget-friendly
Why it’s great:
- Lightweight
- Excellent grip on dry trails
- Perfect for first-time trekkers
- Breathable and comfortable
Suitable for:
Kedarkantha, local hikes, Maharashtra trails, short mountain treks.one of the best shoes for trekking.
2. Wildcraft Hypagrip — Best Budget Trekking Shoes
Best for: budget travellers, students
Price Range: Under ₹2000
Why it’s great:
- Good grip for the price
- Stylish design
- Durable outer layer
Best for:
Beginners who want a durable shoe under a tight budget.one of the best shoes for trekking.
3. Woodland Trekking Series G 40777 — Best for Tough Terrain
Best for: forest trails, rocky terrain
Price Range: Mid-budget
Why it’s great:
- Strong, rugged sole
- Long-lasting leather structure
- Good ankle stability
Great for:
Backpackers and adventure travelers.it is alsp one of the best shoes for trekking.
4. Quechua NH150 — Best for Long Hikes & Comfort
Best for: long-distance hikers
Why it’s great:
- Cushioned inner sole
- Flexible material
- Comfortable for 8–10 hours of walking
Perfect for:
Multi-day treks & backpackers.one of the best shoes for trekking.
5. Columbia Redmond — Best Waterproof Trekking Shoes
Best for: Himalayan treks, snow trails
Why it’s great:
- 100% waterproof
- High grip on snow & rocks
- Premium comfort
Great for:
Hampta Pass, Kashmir Great Lakes, Valley of Flowers.
6. Salomon X Ultra Pioneer — Best Premium Shoe
Best for: professional trekkers & mountaineers
Why it’s great:
- Highest grip quality
- Very durable
- Advanced ankle support
Perfect for:
High-altitude treks & technical terrain.one of the best shoes for trekking.
7. Adidas Terrex — Best for Speed & Trail Running
Best for: fitness hikers, trail runners
Why it’s great:
- Ultra-light
- Great for fast-paced trekking
- Breathable
Ideal for:
Short, fast hikes and fitness trekking.
8. Forclaz Trek 100 — Best for Snow Treks
Best for: Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, Kuari Pass
Why it’s great:
- Waterproof membrane
- Insulated for cold temperatures
- Anti-slip sole
Great choice for Himalayan beginners.
9. Arpenaz 100 — Best Lightweight Shoe
Best for: day hikes, travel
Why it’s great:
- Super lightweight
- Comfortable for walking long distances
- Affordable price
Perfect for travelers who need all-purpose outdoor shoes.
10. Campus Trekking Series — Cheapest but Practical
Best for: first-time hikers on low budget
Price Range: Under ₹1000
Why it’s great:
- Extremely affordable
- Decent grip
- Perfect for 1–2 beginner trails
Great for college students & weekend trekkers.
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🏔️ How to Choose the Best Shoes for Trekking (Buying Guide)
Choosing the right trekking shoe depends on terrain, distance, weather, and experience level.
Here are the five most important factors:
1. Grip (Traction)
Look for a deep, multi-directional rubber sole.
Better grip = safer trek.
2. Ankle Support
If you’re doing Himalayan or rocky treks, choose high-ankle shoes.
They protect you from ankle twists.
3. Waterproofing
Waterproof shoes are essential for:
- snow
- rain
- river crossings
4. Weight
Choose lightweight shoes for:
- beginners
- long hikes
- travel
Heavy shoes cause fatigue.
5. Cushioning & Comfort
Your shoe must be comfortable for 6–10 hours of walking.
Look for:
- EVA midsole
- memory foam insoles
- breathable mesh
Best Shoes for Different Types of Trekkers
1. Best Shoes for Beginners
Choose:
- Quechua MH100
- Arpenaz 100
- Campus Trekking Series
These are comfortable, affordable & ideal for easy trails.
2. Best Shoes for Himalayan Treks
Choose:
- Columbia Redmond
- Forclaz Trek 100
- Salomon X Ultra Pioneer
Because they offer better ankle support & waterproofing.
3. Best Shoes Under ₹2000 (Budget Travellers)
Choose:
- Wildcraft Hypagrip
- Quechua MH100
- Woodland budget series
These offer the best price-to-performance ratio.
FAQs
Are trekking shoes necessary?
Yes. Trekking shoes provide better grip, protect your ankle, and help prevent slips. Normal sports shoes are risky on mountain terrain.
Which shoes are best for Kedarkantha or other Himalayan treks?
Columbia Redmond, Forclaz Trek 100, or any waterproof high-ankle shoe is ideal.
Can beginners use normal running shoes for trekking?
Not recommended. Running shoes lack grip and can slip on rocky or wet surfaces.
Best Shoes for Trekking in India
If you’re a beginner, choose lightweight and budget-friendly options.
If you’re planning a Himalayan trek, choose waterproof, high-ankle shoes.
If you’re a budget traveler, shoes under ₹2000 offer great value.
Your trekking experience depends a lot on the shoe you wear—choose wisely!