Footwear has always been a symbol of style and luxury, from ancient Greece and Rome's elegant sandals to the extravagant high heels by Debbie Wingham and Antonio Vietri’s classic designs. The global footwear market continues to thrive, and India, as the second-largest producer and consumer after China, is set to become a significant player in the industry. With the Indian footwear market projected to grow from $15.9 billion in 2023 to $36 billion by 2030, the country is on track to see a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 12%.

A major factor driving this growth is the domestic market, fueled by rising disposable incomes and shifting consumer preferences. Today, many buyers are opting for stylish yet functional footwear, whether for jogging, hiking, or glamorous dress shoes inspired by celebrities. This has led to a dual market, where aspirational consumers seek premium products, while others struggle with affordable but uncomfortable shoes.

Enter Yoho, a comfort-first, budget-friendly direct-to-consumer (D2C) footwear brand that bridges the gap between these two markets. Launched by industry veterans Ahmad Hushsham and Prateek Singhal, Yoho offers a range of functional shoes designed for everyday wear. The brand has carved out a niche in the market for “second shoes”—footwear that complements formal outfits without compromising on quality or style.

Initially, Yoho wasn’t focused on sneakers, but as demand for comfortable footwear like Skechers surged, the brand pivoted and introduced Blinc, India’s first hands-free sneakers. Yoho’s product range has since expanded to include Lofos, a flexible loafer; Freestep, a slip-on offering ample foot space; and Waves, a slipper with exceptional arch support. Today, Yoho boasts over 100 styles and 700 SKUs, available in a variety of colors and priced between INR 1,000-2,500, competing with international brands in terms of both quality and design.

Yoho operates on an omnichannel business model, catering to customers across metros and Tier I and II cities. The brand is targeting INR 100 Cr in revenue by FY25, marking a 400% growth from INR 20 Cr in the previous fiscal year.

With its unique blend of comfort, style, and affordability, Yoho has become an investor favorite. The company recently raised INR 27 Cr in its pre-Series B round, bringing its total funding to INR 47 Cr. This capital will be used for research and development, product innovation, and expanding into international markets.