In the world of sportswear, names like Nike, Reebok and Adidas dominate. While they might be some of the most obvious choices when you are looking for activewear, there is a real need for quality players that are easier on the pocket. Xtep, a Hong Kong-based brand, launched in Bengaluru last November, aims to fill the gap with its affordable range of apparel, shoes and accessories. Started in 2002, Xtep is currently available in 6,035 stores across 31 provinces in the People’s Republic Of China (PRC), apart from Nepal, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia and Spain.
Classified into categories such as Running, Training, Football, Basketball and Outdoor, the clothes are created using six different technologies developed by the brand. Their running shoes use three technologies, also developed in-house. “Our materials are not so different from other brands. The difference comes in the technology used. We use our own technology and in- house design team,” shares their CEO, Ding Shui Po.
A highlight of the store is their ‘Lifestyle Collection’ which is geared towards athleisure. Divided into Active and Urban, the former is focused on style and design while the latter seeks to combine sports with style. The products have been curated to include their most popular pieces globally, but Ding Shui reveals
that plans to create something specifically for the Indian market are in the works. “We are in the process of collecting data to create shoes that suit Indian feet,” he explains.
With plans to expand into cities like Hyderabad, Mysuru and Chennai in the near future, Ding Shui is also expecting to make the brand available online in India by mid-2019, with a different range of products.
Rs.1,500 upwards. At Indira Nagar