Sneaker Price Hike: Adidas or Nike? Guess which sneaker brand is increasing its prices from June 1, 2025 amid US tariff pressure |

No it is not Adidas! Global sportswear big Nike is set to boost retail prices throughout a number of its merchandise within the US beginning Sunday, June 1, because it grapples with rising import prices and geopolitical commerce headwinds. The firm has additionally introduced its return to Amazon after a six-year hiatus, signalling a strategic shift amid softening client sentiment.The pricing revision will have an effect on grownup attire and tools, which will go up by $2 to $10 (approx. ₹167 to ₹835). Footwear priced between $100 and $150 (₹8,350 to ₹12,525) will see a $5 (₹417) hike, whereas sneakers exceeding $150 (₹12,525) may rise by as much as $10 (₹835).

However, not all merchandise will see a worth bump. Nike’s iconic Air Force 1 sneakers (presently priced at $155 or ₹12,942), children’ collections, and Jordan-branded merchandise will stay unaffected. Items beneath $100 (₹8,350) may even retain their present pricing.

Why is Nike elevating prices?

Though Nike hasn’t explicitly cited US tariffs as the explanation for the hike, the timing is telling. Most of its items are manufactured in Asia, notably China and Vietnam, areas now dealing with a ten% import levy within the US, with extra steep tariffs postponed till July.“Price adjustments are a regular part of our seasonal planning,” Nike stated in an announcement, whereas its CFO Matt Friend earlier hinted at navigating “external uncertainties” equivalent to tariffs and declining client confidence.While firms usually take in tariffs initially, they have an inclination to move on the fee to shoppers finally. Competitors like Adidas and Puma have already issued comparable warnings, with Adidas suggesting common fashions just like the Gazelle and Samba may get costlier within the U.S.

What does this imply for Indian shoppers?

Though the worth hikes are presently restricted to the US, Indian shoppers may finally really feel the ripple results:Imported pricing pressure: Premium Nike merchandise offered in India, notably limited-edition sneakers and high-end attire, are sometimes imported from international warehouses, which means international pricing technique shifts can affect Indian retail tags over time.Currency affect: A strengthening US greenback towards the Indian rupee (presently hovering round ₹83.5 to $1) may additional amplify retail prices of worldwide manufacturers in India, particularly people who don’t manufacture domestically.Luxury and streetwear crossover: As India’s luxurious style and sneaker tradition grows, worldwide pricing changes like this could reshape native resale markets, particularly for cult favourites like Jordans and Air Force 1s.Amazon re-entry technique: Nike’s return to Amazon US may rekindle curiosity in strengthening its e-commerce partnerships globally. Indian patrons may probably see larger on-line availability of choose Nike merchandise, though whether or not that interprets to raised pricing stays unsure.

Retailer’s tightrope

By excluding children’ merchandise and budget-friendly gadgets, Nike appears to be cushioning the blow for price-sensitive segments. At the identical time, its return to Amazon – a transfer away from its prior direct-to-consumer solely stance, exhibits a extra versatile, consumer-focused strategy.

Globally, firms like JD Sports and Puma have voiced concern that increased prices may dampen demand, particularly in price-sensitive markets. For Indian retailers and shoppers, these developments underscore a unstable pricing surroundings, the place international commerce, politics, and inflation intersect along with your favorite pair of sneakers.