The Indian footwear industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors, catering to both domestic and global markets. From casual shoes to industrial safety boots, footwear must meet certain quality and safety benchmarks to ensure consumer trust and regulatory compliance. To standardize product quality, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made it mandatory for manufacturers to obtain BIS Certification for Footwear. The certification signifies that footwear complies with the specified Indian Standards (IS) and can be sold with the ISI Mark for Footwear, assuring customers of durability, comfort, and safety.

This blog explains the importance of BIS for Footwear, the certification process, and how businesses can benefit from consulting an experienced BIS consultant for footwear.

Why BIS for Footwear is Important

The footwear industry in India serves a wide range of customers, from daily wear users to professionals who require specialized shoes. Substandard footwear not only affects comfort but may also cause health issues or fail in safety-critical environments like industrial sites.

Here’s why BIS Certification for Footwear is vital:

• Consumer Safety: Ensures shoes and sandals meet minimum safety and durability standards.
• Quality Assurance: The ISI Mark for Footwear guarantees customers they are buying reliable and long-lasting products.
• Market Compliance: Under Quality Control Orders (QCOs), non-certified footwear cannot be manufactured, imported, or sold in India.
• Brand Trust: BIS-certified footwear brands gain stronger recognition and consumer confidence.
• Global Acceptance: Certification builds credibility, enabling manufacturers to expand into export markets.

Footwear Products Covered Under BIS Certification

BIS has made certification mandatory for several types of footwear under different Indian Standards (IS). Some examples include:

• Leather Safety Boots and Shoes – IS 15298
• Canvas Rubber Sole Shoes – IS 3735
• Polyurethane Moulded Footwear – IS 6719
• PVC Sandals and Slippers – IS 6721
• General Purpose Footwear – IS 5676

Every type of footwear has specific performance, durability, and safety requirements. Manufacturers must comply with the corresponding Indian Standard to use the ISI Mark for Footwear.

Process of BIS Certification for Footwear

Obtaining BIS Certification for Footwear involves a structured process. The major steps include:

1. Application Submission: The manufacturer applies online through the BIS portal, selecting the footwear category.
2. Document Preparation: Relevant technical documents, test reports, and factory details are submitted.
3. Product Testing: Footwear samples are tested at a BIS-recognized laboratory to check compliance with applicable standards.
4. Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct on-site inspections to verify manufacturing capabilities and quality control systems.
5. Grant of License: Upon successful verification, BIS issues a license, and the manufacturer can affix the ISI Mark for Footwear on their products.

Challenges Faced by Manufacturers in BIS Certification

While certification ensures quality and compliance, manufacturers often face hurdles, such as:

• Complex Documentation: Preparing accurate compliance documents can be overwhelming.
• Testing Delays: Laboratory testing of footwear can be time-consuming.
• Inspection Readiness: Factories must maintain proper infrastructure and quality control to pass inspections.
• Regulatory Updates: BIS frequently updates its guidelines, which manufacturers must stay informed about.

To overcome these challenges, many businesses seek help from a BIS consultant for footwear.

Role of a BIS Consultant for Footwear

A BIS consultant for footwear plays a crucial role in simplifying the certification journey. Their expertise ensures that manufacturers avoid unnecessary delays and obtain licenses smoothly. Key benefits include:

• Guidance on Standards: Consultants identify the right Indian Standards applicable to specific footwear categories.
• Document Assistance: Help in preparing and submitting the required paperwork.
• Testing Support: Coordination with BIS-approved labs for faster and accurate product testing.
• Inspection Preparation: Advising manufacturers on compliance requirements for successful BIS inspections.
• End-to-End Support: Managing the entire certification process, from application to grant of license.

Choosing the right consultant can save time, minimize errors, and help businesses achieve certification with confidence.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Footwear Manufacturers

Having BIS for Shoes is not just about compliance—it also opens opportunities for growth. Some key advantages include:

• Legal Approval: Only BIS-certified footwear is permitted for sale in India.
• Customer Confidence: Products with the ISI Mark for Footwear build trust among consumers.
• Competitive Edge: Certified manufacturers stand out in a competitive market.
• Business Expansion: BIS certification helps manufacturers explore government tenders and international markets.
• Quality Reputation: A mark of quality that strengthens brand identity and reputation.

BIS for Shoes: The Future of Footwear Industry

With increasing focus on consumer safety and quality, the role of BIS for Shoes is becoming more significant. Government initiatives, coupled with rising consumer awareness, are driving more brands to obtain certification. In the future, we may see even stricter quality compliance in footwear manufacturing, ensuring that only certified products reach the Indian and global markets.

Conclusion

EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. The footwear industry is more than just style and design—it is about ensuring safety, comfort, and quality. With mandatory BIS Certification for Footwear, the government ensures that customers get access to durable and safe footwear. For manufacturers, obtaining the ISI Mark for Footwear not only fulfills compliance requirements but also strengthens market credibility.

However, the certification journey can be complex. Partnering with a BIS consultant for footwear makes the process smooth, allowing businesses to focus on manufacturing high-quality shoes while experts handle compliance.

In a rapidly expanding market, BIS for Footwear is not just a regulatory requirement but also a strategic advantage for manufacturers looking to build trust, expand reach, and ensure long-term growth.