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Tag: Rahul Vira

  • Skechers ‘Aero’ series races into India with aerodynamic running shoes

    Skechers ‘Aero’ series races into India with aerodynamic running shoes

    MUMBAI: Skechers is taking Indian runners on a flight of fancy quite literally. The brand has launched its ‘Aero’ series, a new line of technical running shoes designed to cut through the wind and help athletes chase down personal bests with style and comfort.

    Unveiled in Mumbai, the Skechers ‘Aero’ collection brings two performance-driven styles: Aero ‘Burst’ and Aero ‘Spark’ engineered to meet different needs. Burst is the long-haul partner, built with plush dual-density ‘Hyper Burst Ice’ cushioning, a carbon-infused h-plate, and the updated  ‘Arch Fit’ support system to keep runners going mile after mile. Spark, meanwhile, is the everyday all-rounder, cushioned for daily miles but responsive enough to pick up the pace when required.

    Both pairs feature breathable engineered mesh uppers, snug fit systems, and are available in lace-up or Skechers’ hands free slip-ins, a design that lets runners step in and go while reducing weight and friction for a seamless feel. Signature technologies across the range include Hyper Arc, which adapts to the runner’s stride, and Goodyear performance outsoles for better traction and durability.

    Skechers technical performance division, vice president, Ben Stewart said, “The Aero Series leverages innovative technologies to elevate our signature comfort. Developed with feedback from runners of all levels, we expect Aero to inspire confidence and performance on every run.”

    Adding a local perspective, Skechers South Asia, ceo, Rahul Vira said the launch comes at the right time. “The Indian running community has grown exponentially. The Aero series merges aerodynamic design with hallmark Skechers comfort, supporting runners at every level. With Jasprit Bumrah and Sunil Chhetri joining the Skechers family, this launch is even more special as they embody the dedication and spirit Aero represents.”

    The Skechers ‘Aero’ series is now available at Skechers retail outlets and online at skechers.in. For India’s runners, it looks like the wind is finally at their backs.

  • Siraj bowls into Skechers squad with 23 wickets and new shoe deal

    Siraj bowls into Skechers squad with 23 wickets and new shoe deal

    MUMBAI: Mohammed Siraj isn’t just making batsmen dance now he’s stepping into Skechers too. The fiery Hyderabad-born pacer, fresh off a dream run in the India–England Test series, has been signed by the Comfort Technology Company as its newest cricketing ambassador. Siraj, who helped India square the five-match series 2–2 with 23 wickets including a decisive five-for in the final Oval Test will now lace up in Skechers’ performance-driven cricket shoes for Gujarat Titans and the national side. His new partnership sees him join fellow stars Jasprit Bumrah, Ishan Kishan, and Yastika Bhatia in the brand’s cricket roster.

    “For me, comfort and focus are everything when I’m on the field. Skechers gives me that confidence,” Siraj said, adding that the brand’s attention to detail mirrors the intensity he brings to every spell. Skechers CEO of South Asia Rahul Vira praised Siraj’s “relentless spirit and raw talent,” calling his Test heroics against England the perfect example of the brand’s ethos of resilience and performance.

    The Skechers Cricket line features the full-spike Elite with 11 metal spikes for maximum power, and the 7-spike Blade for agility gear tailored for bowlers who thrive on traction and control. With the cricket range available online and at select stores, fans can also catch behind-the-scenes content via @skechersperformanceindia.

    From topping the ICC ODI bowling charts in 2023 to scripting a dramatic comeback this summer, Siraj’s rise has been meteoric. And now, as he trades in one set of spikes for another, his journey from the gullies of Hyderabad to Skechers’ global stage is one that looks set to run on comfort, power, and plenty of pace.

  • NBA and Skechers spotlight Indian hoop dreams in Hoop Nation Season 2

    NBA and Skechers spotlight Indian hoop dreams in Hoop Nation Season 2

    MUMBAI: When basketball meets bars, stories soar beyond the court. The NBA, in collaboration with Skechers, has launched the second season of its lyrical docuseries Hoop Nation, a four-part chronicle of resilience, rhythm and real-life hoop dreams from the far corners of India. Streaming now on NBA India’s Youtube channel, Hoop Nation Season 2 weaves slam dunks with sick beats, profiling underrepresented basketball voices from Kashmir to Kerala, Kolkata to Mumbai all with an assist from India’s rising hip-hop stars. This season is presented by Skechers, whose performance-driven basketball shoes make a prominent on-court cameo.

    The episodes spotlight:

    .  Ishrat Akhter, an international wheelchair basketball player from Baramulla, Kashmir

    .  Deepak P. Babu, a devoted fan and mentor from Alappuzha, Kerala

    .  The Lao family, a father-daughter duo championing basketball in Kolkata’s Indo-Chinese community

    .  Farooque Shaikh, a Nagpada-based coach shaping Mumbai’s next generation of ballers

    And who’s soundtracking their journeys? Straight Outta Srinagar, ThirumaLi, EPR Iyer and QK hip-hop artists whose original verses narrate these ballers’ lives with lyrical punchlines and sonic swagger.

    “Hoop Nation Season 2 embodies the spirit of basketball in India, a game that unites, inspires and drives change,” said NBA India Country HeadRajah Chaudhry. “Skechers shares our mission of taking the game deeper into India’s cultural and sporting fabric.”

    Skechers CEO of South Asia Rahul Vira added, “This isn’t just about footwear; it’s about fuelling the fire in every Indian baller. With Hoop Nation and the ACG Jr. NBA program, we’re enabling both inspiration and access.”

    The Skechers x NBA partnership also powered the ACG Jr. NBA India’s largest school basketball initiative. The 3v3 format tournament touched 4,000 plus players across 500 plus schools last year, with Skechers as official kit partner.

    From court-side storytelling to grassroots development, the initiative underscores a first-of-its-kind collaboration in the region, one that puts culture, community and comfort at the centre of the game.

    Whether you’re vibing to SOS’s Kashmiri verses or QK’s Mumbai flow, Hoop Nation 2 brings more than basketball, it brings belonging. And in the process, it reaffirms that sport, like music, hits different when it tells the stories that matter.

    Catch the docuseries now on the NBA India Youtube channel and follow for more behind-the-scenes action and product drops. Because whether it’s a crossover or a cross-rhyme, India’s hoop dreams are dribbling in style.
     

  • Kartik Aaryan slips into Skechers as new brand ambassador for India

    Kartik Aaryan slips into Skechers as new brand ambassador for India

    MUMBAI: Skechers has found its newest sole mate in Kartik Aaryan. The Bollywood star has been signed on as brand ambassador for India, making his debut with a campaign for the brand’s buzz-worthy Hands Free Slip-ins — footwear that fuses fashion with no-fuss functionality.

    Built for the on-the-go urbanite, Skechers’ Hands Free Slip-ins come equipped with the brand’s patented Heel Pillow tech — letting wearers slide into their shoes without bending down or lifting a finger. Think of it as the lazy genius’ dream sneaker — sleek, stylish, and smart.

    Speaking on the association, Skechers South Asia Pvt. Ltd. CEO Rahul Vira said, “Kartik Aaryan embodies the spirit of Skechers—bold, versatile, stylish and innovative. We are proud to partner with Kartik, an award-winning actor that is equal parts talent, charisma and adventurous. As a prominent contemporary youth icon, his broad appeal coupled with his dynamic persona will help keep Skechers in the mind of consumers shopping for our in-demand lifestyle and athletic footwear across India. We believe Kartik’s influence will amplify our connection with his fans who value the innovation and comfort that is only offered by Skechers.”

    Sharing his enthusiasm about joining the Skechers family, Aaryan said, “I am excited to collaborate with Skechers—a brand that stands at the intersection of cutting-edge performance and contemporary style. What truly impressed me is their relentless focus on innovation, especially the Slip-ins technology, which redefines convenience without compromising on design. I’m always on the move, so I love that I can just slip in and go. Skechers’ vision aligns perfectly with my own belief in pushing boundaries, and I look forward to being part of their incredible journey as they continue to inspire athletes and trendsetters alike.”

    Kartik joins an all-star global Skechers lineup that includes Ananya Panday, Sunil Chhetri, Harry Kane, Jasprit Bumrah, Joel Embiid and more. With charm and swag to boot, Aaryan’s pairing with Skechers promises to put comfort and cool in the same step.

  • Bumrah steps into Skechers’ shoes, ready to bowl rivals over the boundary

    Bumrah steps into Skechers’ shoes, ready to bowl rivals over the boundary

    MUMBAI: Just when batsmen thought facing Jasprit Bumrah couldn’t get any scarier, Skechers armed him with shoes—shoes that promise comfort, style, and apparently, even more lethal yorkers. Imagine facing India’s pace king in sneakers designed for maximum traction—sounds terrifyingly brilliant, doesn’t it?

    On 17 March 2025, Skechers—the comfort technology company®—signed cricket superstar Bumrah, adding yet another big fish to its athletic pond. The Mumbai Indians stalwart now competes wearing Skechers cricket footwear and will feature prominently in marketing campaigns for the brand’s performance and lifestyle collections.

    “I joined the Skechers family as they are known for blending comfort with cutting-edge innovation,” said Bumrah, who recently earned the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Award for the 2024 ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year. “Their wide range of offerings make it a perfect fit for athletes who value performance without compromising on style, especially for bowlers like me. I’m proud to represent a brand that resonates with my approach to both cricket and life.” Clearly, comfort is crucial when sending batters packing back to the pavilion.

    Skechers south Asia Pvt. Ltd. CEO Rahul Vira highlighted the synergy, saying, “Jasprit Bumrah’s relentless pursuit of excellence perfectly aligns with Skechers’ commitment to innovation and performance. Having him as part of the Skechers family adds to our stellar roster of ambassadors, including Yastika Bhatia and Ishan Kishan. The Skechers Team of athletes illustrate how the signature Comfort That Performs of Skechers Cricket footwear can help anyone’s game no matter what level you play. We’re excited to further elevate our journey in cricket and continue shaping the future of sports culture in India.” Translation: Bumrah plus Skechers equals trouble for batsmen everywhere.

    Bumrah isn’t your average bowler; he’s cricket’s equivalent of lightning in trainers. After debuting in 2014, he bagged over 400 international wickets by 2024 and uniquely achieved number one ICC rankings across all formats simultaneously. Add his ‘Player of the Series’ award from India’s 2024 World Cup triumph, and you have a cricketer who’s not just good, but absurdly good.

    The Skechers Cricket collection, which Bumrah now represents, includes the Cricket Elite shoe with 11 spikes for players craving maximum grip—perfect for those dramatic follow-throughs and flamboyant appeals. The Cricket Blade, featuring seven spikes, caters to players who require agility and decisive action—ideal for those quick single-run dashes or frantic dive-ins.

    Bumrah joins other big hitters and global sports icons already wearing Skechers: footballer Harry Kane, NBA giant Joel Embiid, and even pickleball maestros like Tyson McGuffin.

    Fancy bowling like Bumrah or just avoiding slipping embarrassingly during Sunday cricket? Skechers Cricket shoes are now available in select retail stores and online at skechers.in.

  • Skechers does it right with 3D display billboards

    Skechers does it right with 3D display billboards

    MUMBAI: Skechers India is hitting it out of the park. Last week, it decided to promote its cricket shoe range which it launched earlier this year. Right at the location where rising players congregate.

    They chose the Oval cricket ground in south Mumbai where many a match – both professional and amateur – is held. The ground is known for its ferocious uneven bounce where a pacer’s ball can kick up suddenly and unexpectedly or  a leg spinner’s innocuous ball can generate vicious turn.

    The Skechers marketing team decided to shift shape the bus shelters into shoe:  the Skechers cricket blade shoes. The speciality of these  shoes is that they have seven metal spikes as compared to the Skechers cricket elite which have 11 metal spikes.  The cricket collection is  endorsed by cricketers Ishan Kishan and Yastika Bhatia. 
     

    Skechers

    Skechers 3D displays

    “We have designed a product range that brings incomparable performance, grip, and comfort to the cricket oval,” had  said Skechers Asia CEO Rahul Vira at the time of the launch.

    Vira was full of praise for his marketing team’s promotional gig at the Oval ground. 

    Said he: “Thrilled to share our marketing team’s innovation of turning mundane bus shelters into interesting 3D billboards. Launching Skechers cricket blade shoes at the cricket lovers paradise in Mumbai The Oval Grounds – a symbol of Mumbai’s cricketing legacy.”

    One will have to wait and watch whether the shoes leave their foot marks on cricketer’s dress wear.

    (pictures courtesy: Rahul Vira’s linkedin account)

  • Skechers Walkathon 2024 unites thousands for fitness and sports growth

    Skechers Walkathon 2024 unites thousands for fitness and sports growth

    Mumbai: On 18 November 2024, Skechers concluded the fifth edition of its highly anticipated ‘Skechers Walkathon’ at Inorbit Mall, Malad, Mumbai. This year’s event brought together thousands of fitness enthusiasts and reinforced Skechers’ dedication to sports advancement by donating a portion of registration proceeds to the GoSports Foundation, supporting young Indian athletes.

    Bollywood star Ananya Panday and football legend Sunil Chhetri joined the event, alongside influencers like actress-veejay Gaelyn Mendonca and content creators Viraj Ghelani and Karan Sonwane. Their presence energised participants and underscored the spirit of community and fitness.

    Skechers South Asia Pvt. Ltd., CEO, Rahul Vira stated, “The Skechers Walkathon is not just an event; it’s a celebration of health, wellness, and community. This year’s incredible turnout highlights the growing enthusiasm for an active lifestyle. Partnering with GoSports Foundation, we are proud to support young athletes and contribute to the future of Indian sports. This initiative perfectly aligns with our vision of a fitter and more active India.”

    Chhetri shared his experience: “It was truly inspiring to see such a huge turnout of fitness enthusiasts at the Skechers Walkathon. Being part of this event made me feel the incredible energy and passion people have for health and community. Skechers’ promise to encourage the next generation of athletes through initiatives like this is truly commendable, and I am glad to be a part of this journey to make fitness a way of life for more people in India.”

    Panday added, “Joining the Skechers Walkathon this year was a beautiful experience. Seeing people of all ages come together for a day of fitness, fun, and purpose was both uplifting and motivating. Skechers has created a unique platform that not only promotes active lifestyles but also supports emerging athletes, which is something I am proud to be part of. It was a day filled with positivity, community spirit, and a strong sense of togetherness.”

    The event, in collaboration with GoSports Foundation, reaffirms Skechers’ commitment to nurturing India’s sports talent. GoSports Foundation, CEO, Deepthi Bopaiah commented, “Our partnership with Skechers plays a vital role in our mission to empower young athletes. This sustained support ensures that aspiring athletes receive the guidance and resources they need to pursue their dreams on an international stage.”

    The Skechers Walkathon featured three fitness categories: the 10 km-timed walk for seasoned participants, a five km-timed walk for those new to the sport, and a three km fun walk for families. The scenic route around Inorbit Mall included entertainment zones, enhancing the event’s atmosphere. Since its inception, the Skechers Walkathon has engaged an expanding community of fitness enthusiasts, cementing its place as a landmark event for health and community spirit in India, and promoting sportsmanship and empowerment for future athletes.

  • Skechers announces the fifth edition of Mumbai Walkathon

    Skechers announces the fifth edition of Mumbai Walkathon

    Mumbai: Skechers, an American footwear brand, will be hosting the fifth edition of the Skechers Mumbai Walkathon at InOrbit Mall, Malad on 17 November 2024. This event celebrates the popular Skechers ‘go walk’ product line designed for walking.

    Registrations for the 2024 Walkathon are open until 8 November 2024 at www.skecherswalkathon.in. Skechers continues its partnership with GoSports Foundation, donating a portion of registration fees to support Indian athletes through the long-term athlete development programme.

    The event aims to build on last year’s success, which attracted over 8,000 participants, and reinforces Skechers’ commitment to promoting fitness and supporting the next generation of Indian athletes while contributing to the country’s sports culture.

    Skechers South Asia CEO Rahul Vira said, “Last year’s Walkathon demonstrated the remarkable impact Skechers can have on promoting an active lifestyle and supporting young athletes, as we saw significant community engagement and substantial contributions towards the development of India’s future sports stars. The Skechers Mumbai Walkathon has evolved into a highly anticipated fitness event in the city. This year, our collaboration with GoSports Foundation will aim to bring the city together in a festive atmosphere whilst promoting fitness as a culture in Mumbai.”

    GoSports Foundation CEO Deepthi Bopaiah commented, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Skechers. Their support has been instrumental to the overall success of the GoSports Long-Term Athlete Development Programme (GLTADP). The CSR funds from Skechers have supported the athletes across 10 sports and facilitated various aspects of the programme, including athlete development initiatives, competition support, and overall programme enhancements. Additionally, their contributions have enabled specific interventions across our organization. The donation from this year’s Walkathon will ensure our athletes receive sustained support at multiple sports platforms.”

    Skechers India and GoSports Foundation aim to enhance Indian sports and wellness programs. Skechers has facilitated broad-based athlete support, including participation in international competitions, providing training equipment, and supporting mental and physical well-being initiatives. As a result, athletes in the program have achieved milestones in national and world championships.

    This year’s fifth edition of the Walkathon will feature several walking categories: a 10 km walk for experienced walkers, a five km walk for beginners, and a 3 km fun walk. These categories cater to various fitness levels, providing an enjoyable walking experience around the scenic route of InOrbit Mall, Malad.

  • Skechers is Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s official kit partner

    Skechers is Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s official kit partner

    Mumbai: Skechers announced its official kit partnership with Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG), one of India’s oldest football clubs. Players will wear Skechers-branded match kits, training gear, and lifestyle apparel.

    Founded in 1889, MBSG has a rich history, being the first all-Indian team to win a championship against a British club during India’s independence struggle. The club represents pride and identity for West Bengal and India, with matches serving as cultural events and a passionate fan base comparable to European football. MBSG is currently one of India’s top-performing clubs, having won the ISL League Title for the 2023-2024 season.

    Skechers is known for its comfortable footwear and aims to expand its presence in the performance category. The brand collaborates with athletes globally in sports like football, cricket, basketball, golf, pickleball, and running. In addition to its partnerships with the Indian Pickleball Association and the Mumbai Indians, Skechers is committed to enhancing its reputation in the sportswear market and providing innovative, high-performance gear.

    Skechers South Asia Pvt Ltd CEO Rahul Vira said, “We are incredibly proud to partner with a club as iconic as Mohun Bagan Super Giant. With more and more players globally experiencing our signature Comfort That Performs on the pitch, this association is an extension of our commitment to develop a strong sports culture in India while reinforcing Skechers as a leading performance brand to consumers everywhere. Mohun Bagan’s legacy and its passionate fan base align perfectly with our brand values, and we are excited to be part of their journey as they continue to inspire and achieve further milestones on the field.”

    Mohun Bagan Super Giant director Vinay Chopra said, “We are thrilled to partner with Skechers, a global leader in performance and lifestyle apparel, to fuel our pursuit of excellence on and off the pitch. This association is a testament to our shared values of innovation, quality, and a passion for performance. With Skechers by our side, we’re confident that our team will be equipped with the best apparel to take on the toughest challenges in the Indian Super League and beyond. We look forward to a winning partnership that will inspire our fans and take Indian football to new heights.”

    As the new ISL season approaches, Skechers looks forward to seeing its brand proudly displayed on the jerseys of Mohun Bagan Super Giant. This partnership not only aligns with Skechers’ mission to be a key player in the performance sportswear category but also honors the legacy and cultural significance of MBSG.

  • NBA, ACG & BFI launch ACG Jr. NBA program in collaboration with Skechers

    NBA, ACG & BFI launch ACG Jr. NBA program in collaboration with Skechers

    Mumbai: The National Basketball Association (NBA), ACG, and the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), the governing body of basketball in the country, has announced the launch of the ACG Jr. NBA program, a nationwide 3v3 tournament for the top U-14 players across India and the largest school-based basketball program in the country. Skechers, the global performance and lifestyle footwear and apparel brand, will serve as the official kit partner of the program and provide high-quality gear for the participants.

    The ACG Jr. NBA program will feature boys’ and girls’ divisions with teams representing schools from across the country and tip off on Tuesday, 24 September with tournaments in Chennai and Mumbai before visiting Aizawl, Delhi, Kolkata and Ludhiana. The top eight boys’ and girls’ teams from each city will then compete in a league phase within each city that will see the top three boys’ and girls’ teams and one all-star team from each of the boys’ and girls’ divisions advance to the league finals early next year. The dates of the remaining city tournaments and league phases, and the dates and location of the league finals, will be announced at a later date. Schools can register to participate by visiting this link.

    In addition to the ACG Jr. NBA program, the collaboration aims to enhance youth basketball development at the local level, expand elite talent identification nationally, and provide new development opportunities for players, coaches and referees at all levels. The collaboration builds on the prior association between the NBA and ACG that included the launch of ACG-NBA Jump, a nationwide basketball talent search program, and marks the first time BFI will serve as an ACG Jr. NBA partner.

    The announcement was made today at a press conference in Mumbai by BFI president Aadhav Arjuna, NBA Asia strategy head and NBA India country head Rajah Chaudhry, ACG CMO Alex Robertson and Skechers South Asia Pvt Ltd CEO Rahul Vira.  

    The Jr. NBA program has reached more than 14 million youth and 15,000 physical education instructors across 35 cities in India since 2013.  The ACG Jr. NBA program is part of the NBA’s broader basketball development initiatives in India that include NBA Basketball School, a network of tuition-based basketball development programs open to male and female players ages 6-18, and Basketball Without Borders Asia, the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program that has been held in India twice.  

    NBA Asia strategy head and NBA India country head Rajah Chaudhry, “There is tremendous momentum for basketball and the NBA in India, and our collaboration with ACG, BFI and Skechers will significantly drive participation and improve talent development at the youth level across the country.  Over the past decade, we’ve engaged millions of children through the Jr. NBA program, and we look forward to expanding our development efforts in India alongside our partners and providing more opportunities for boys and girls to play the game and maximize their potential.”

    ACG MD Karan Singh, “Through the ACG Jr. NBA program, we are taking a significant step in empowering the next generation of basketball players in India.  This initiative goes beyond the game – it’s about building character, instilling values, and offering young athletes a platform to grow and shine.  By working with the NBA and BFI, we are committed to creating opportunities for these players to learn from the best and pursue their dreams.  As we launch the largest school-based basketball program in India, we’re excited about the potential we’re unlocking.  This program represents our continued dedication to grassroots development and fostering excellence both on-and-off the court.”

    BFI president Aadhav Arjuna, “Our association with the NBA underlines our joint dedication to nurturing talent and elevating basketball to unprecedented heights nationwide.  The NBA’s efforts to bolster grassroots basketball development in India have been truly commendable.  We’re excited to work closely with the league to inspire and empower generations of basketball enthusiasts, fostering a culture of excellence both on-and-off the court.  Programs like the ACG Jr. NBA will enhance students’ skills and motivation while introducing more children to the game in a fun and interactive environment.  Additionally, it will serve as a hotspot for talent identification and development and help establish a sustainable pipeline of elite-level Indian players.”

    Skechers South Asia Pvt Ltd CEO and country manager Rahul Vira, “As elite professionals like Joel Embiid and Julius Randle compete in Skechers Basketball sneakers in the NBA, we are excited to collaborate with the league to bring our footwear and apparel to the next generation of basketball talent.  We look forward to enhancing the game for the ACG Jr. NBA players through innovative, comfortable, and high-quality gear delivering ‘Comfort That Performs’ on the court.  Together, we aim to create a memorable program that not only inspires but also empowers young athletes to reach their full potential.”