SKECHERS LAUNCHES CRICKET COLLECTION IN INDIA
Mumbai, 8th October 2024 – Skechers, The Comfort Technology Company®, today announced its entry into the global cricket market with the arrival of its inaugural cricket footwear line in India. Skechers Cricket footwear is currently worn in competition by cricket stars Ishan Kishan and Yastika Bhatia from the Mumbai Indians men’s and women’s teams—where Skechers is Official Kit Partner. With the launch of the two initial Skechers Cricket styles, athletes at all levels across India will be able to experience the collection’s signature comfort and performance when they take the field.
Rahul Vira, CEO, Skechers Asia Pvt. Ltd, said, “Cricket is more than just a sport in India—it’s a passion that unites millions and Skechers is ready to bring our signature Comfort That Performs to players across the country. The first-ever Skechers Cricket footwear collection delivers on our commitment to innovate with shoes that truly meet the demands of this vibrant sport. By working closely with top cricketers, we have designed a product range that brings incomparable performance, grip, and comfort to the cricket oval. We’re proud to begin this journey in India with a collection that will empower cricketers across all levels to perform at their best with our cutting-edge footwear.”
David Weinberg, COO of Skechers, added, “The cricket-loving nation of India serves as the ideal launchpad for this innovative collection of high-performance cricket shoes tailored to the unique demands of the sport. Along with running and pickleball currently available in the country, we will further expand our performance portfolio in India with basketball rolling out shortly. Skechers has so much more to come with products offering Comfort That Performs across more sports and activities planned for the coming year.”
Skechers developed and perfected the brand’s cricket collection with insight and feedback from elite athletes and the cricket community, ensuring that the final product is authentically designed for the needs of cricketers. This has resulted in a cricket shoe line that meets the highest standards of performance and comfort.
Ishan Kishan, a prominent left-handed batter and wicketkeeper, said, “Skechers has truly revolutionized cricket footwear with its new line. The perfect blend of grip, lightweight structure, and unmatched comfort makes a real difference on the field. Whether I’m diving behind the stumps or sprinting between wickets, these shoes give me the support and flexibility I need. Having competed in them extensively, I can confidently say they are reliable and comfortable. It’s exciting to be part of this launch with a brand that innovates and genuinely understands what cricketers need to perform at their best.”
Yastika Bhatia, a dynamic wicketkeeper-batter for the Indian women’s cricket team, shared, “As a cricketer, having the right gear is crucial for peak performance. Skechers’ new cricket shoe line delivers exceptional comfort and stability, allowing me to focus on my game without any distractions. The innovative technologies and meticulous design cater perfectly to the demands of cricket. Having worn these shoes since earlier this year, I can attest to their superior quality and performance. I’m thrilled to be part of this journey with Skechers, knowing that their expertise and passion are now empowering cricketers across all levels.”
The Skechers Cricket range launches with full spike and half spike options. Skechers Cricket Elite, featuring 11 metal spikes, is ideal for players seeking exceptional traction and stability, enabling them to perform with confidence and deliver powerful movements on the field. The optimal grip helps players move swiftly and effortlessly, but stay grounded when executing powerful swings. Skechers Cricket Blade, with its 7 metal spikes, is designed to provide a balanced mix of grip and agility, making it ideal for players who require quick movements and decisive actions on the field. Its design helps athletes react swiftly and perform critical manoeuvres with confidence.
Both styles offer the brand’s signature technologies for added comfort and performance. This starts with the Goodyear® rubber outsole that complements the metal spikes for additional traction, grip and durability. The lightweight ULTRA GO® cushioning midsole and Skechers Move Foam™ insole elevate the comfort through long matches while Skechers Arch Fit® technology offers extra support. Additionally, the lightweight and flexible design allows for natural foot movement.
