Our design philosophy is underpinned by extensive research and testing
Founded in 2018, Bengaluru-based Boldfit is a health and fitness brand that specialises in affordable, high-quality fitness products. Through its e-commerce platform, Boldfit offers a diverse range of products including fitness accessories, health supplements, and fashionable athleisure wear, catering to fitness enthusiasts across India. In a conversation with Fibre2Fashion, Founder & CEO Pallav Bihani discusses sportswear.
In what ways do advancements in textile technology and fabric engineering influence the design and functionality of modern sports apparel?
Advancements in textile technology are revolutionising sports apparel. New materials are lighter, more breathable, and wick away moisture faster, keeping athletes cooler and drier. Fabrics are also being engineered with specific functions in mind, such as built-in sun protection. This allows for targeted performance benefits without sacrificing comfort or style.
How do sports apparel companies navigate the balance between maintaining high-performance standards and ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for athletes of all levels and body types?
Striking the balance between performance and inclusivity is key for sports apparel companies. One approach involves using versatile fabrics that offer moisture-wicking for high-intensity workouts but also breathable comfort for casual wear. Additionally, companies can offer a wider size range with flattering cuts to cater to diverse body types. Finally, utilising modular design allows athletes to mix and match pieces for optimal performance and personal style, regardless of skill level.
What inspired you to start Boldfit, and how does your personal background tie into the sports apparel industry?
With just two yoga mats and seed capital of ₹10 lakh, Boldfit was founded out of a deep passion for cricket and a vision to market and provide superior fitness products that offer incredible value to the Indian audience. Initially focusing on fitness equipment and accessories, our goal was to give the larger fitness community in the country a serious upgrade in all things fitness. As a fitness enthusiast myself, I recognised a massive gap in the availability of quality fitness products at competitive prices. Today, Boldfit offers an extensive range of fitness and sports products across various categories, including sports gear, nutrition, apparel, and footwear.
Could you describe the philosophy behind Boldfit’s approach to designing sports apparel? What sets your brand apart from competitors?
The philosophy behind Boldfit’s approach to designing sports apparel is to create a range of products that provide athletes and sports enthusiasts with an incremental advantage through superior fabric, technology, and design. Our design philosophy is underpinned by extensive research and testing, aimed at solving problems for the average fitness enthusiast. From moisture management to odour-free mechanisms, our apparel is crafted to help the community push boundaries daily.
How do you ensure that Boldfit’s apparel aligns with the diverse needs and preferences of athletes across different sports and fitness activities?
Firstly, we utilise a range of performance fabrics, with moisture-wicking technology for high-intensity workouts and breathable meshes for activities like yoga, running, and swimming, to name a few. Secondly, functional design features are incorporated, such as added support and incremental utility. Thirdly, we offer a variety of styles and cuts, catering to individual preferences and activity demands, ensuring we launch products that tackle all native demands.
Can you highlight any innovative technologies or features incorporated into Boldfit’s apparel to enhance performance or comfort for athletes?
To improve performance and comfort for our community, we incorporate moisture-wicking technology and zero-odour mechanisms to help users stay comfortable during even the most intense workouts. We also incorporate robust stitching patterns in areas prone to wear and tear, extending the lifespan of clothes without sacrificing breathability.
In what ways does sustainability factor into the production and materials used for Boldfit's sports apparel?
We believe in achieving peak performance alongside environmental responsibility. We are actively incorporating sustainable practices into our production and material selection. From creating an efficient supply chain that reduces our carbon footprint to ensuring that our products are durable and made from recycled materials like polyester and nylon, the idea is to contribute to a net-zero world. We are continuously improving our communication regarding the sustainable aspects of our products and materials.
With the increasing emphasis on sustainability across industries, what strategies have proven effective for sports apparel brands like yours to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining product quality and performance?
Sustainable sportswear demands a multi-pronged approach. Using recycled materials and eco-conscious manufacturing processes can lessen environmental impact. Designing durable apparel also reduces waste. Boldfit prioritises transparency, educating customers on our sustainable practices so they can make informed choices while looking and feeling their best.
How does Boldfit engage with its community of athletes and fitness enthusiasts to gather feedback and continuously improve its product offerings?
Boldfit fosters a strong connection with its community of athletes through multiple channels. We partner with trainers, coaches, and fitness influencers to test our products in their chosen activities and gather detailed feedback for constant improvement. We actively solicit feedback through post-purchase surveys, encouraging users to share their experiences with our apparel. Additionally, we have a dedicated customer service team that analyses this feedback and relays it to the product development team for the continuous enhancement of our offerings.
What challenges have you faced in scaling Boldfit, and how have you navigated them while maintaining the brand’s integrity and vision?
Scaling Boldfit has presented challenges, of course. Ensuring consistent quality across a higher production volume required partnering with ethical, quality-focused manufacturers and implementing stricter quality controls. Maintaining our core values meant consistently introducing products with a price advantage that our users can enjoy.
Could you share any memorable success stories or impactful moments that have defined Boldfit’s journey thus far?
Boldfit’s journey has had some exciting milestones. A defining moment was unveiling our new logo (The Flex) at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium during the electrifying India vs Afghanistan game. This high-profile reveal put Boldfit on the national stage. Additionally, our successful partnerships with powerhouses like Royal Challengers Bangalore, Chennai Super Kings, and Mumbai Indians have been instrumental in establishing recall and favourability amongst fan bases. These collaborations not only expanded our reach but also solidified our connection with passionate cricket fans and athletes across India.
As the sports apparel industry evolves, what trends do you anticipate shaping the future of Boldfit and the broader market?
We are increasing our focus on sustainable practices, with consumers demanding eco-friendly apparel made from recycled materials. We are also foreseeing a shift towards data-driven design and personalisation. Boldfit will continue to invest in product research to incorporate features that optimise performance and fit for the larger Indian audience.
How do you perceive the evolving relationship between fashion and sports apparel, and what trends do you anticipate driving this intersection in the coming years?
The lines between fashion and sports apparel are blurring. Consumers crave stylish athleisure that transitions seamlessly from the gym to everyday life. Boldfit anticipates this trend will accelerate, driven by a focus on versatile pieces and data-driven personalisation. Imagine custom-designed activewear that combines peak performance with flattering styles.
With the rise of athleisure wear, how do you see sports apparel brands adapting to meet the demands of consumers who seek both performance and style in their clothing?
Sportswear brands are thriving by creating versatile, multi-functional clothing that transitions smoothly from high-intensity workouts to casual outings. Boldfit achieves this with stylish designs and high-performance fabrics that wick away moisture and flatter various body types. This approach ensures users look good and feel good, allowing them to crush their goals with comfort and confidence.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Boldfit in terms of growth, innovation, and impact on the sports apparel landscape?
Boldfit’s future looks bright. We aim to be a leader in sportswear by delivering superior products at the right prices for the Indian audience. We plan to grow strategically, reaching new domestic and international markets. Continuous innovation in materials and technology will keep Boldfit at the forefront of performance. Ultimately, we want to be a force for good, promoting and empowering athletes at all levels and establishing Boldfit as the number one Indian sports and fitness brand.
