Budget conscious cycling & training gear

[Maxrider]

I have an opportunity to import sports apparel from Europe which, although plain and simple in design is good quality. It should retail for approximately R229 for a top, R350 for padded shorts & cleat shoes R450. Do you think there is a demand for this price range locally?

[MrJacques]

If it's good quality, then I think yes.

[HDW]

Definitely, but yeah, only if it is good quality.

 

Have a look at the local brands (like Cape Storm and First Ascent), and compare price and quality. We are very limited as to budget choices in South Africa, so a good quality budget shirt or shorts will be popular. Be it good quality.

 

Maybe have a look at what it will cost to get something printed on it, and explore that side of the business.

 

I suggest you get a sample or two, get some friends who cycle to try them (if you don't cycle yourself), and get feedback. If the shorts aren't comfortable, no one will buy them, not even for R100.

 

Just my 2c.

[DaLoCo]

I have been using Maxed from Mr Price Sports. The shorts compare very well with Panda, but the cost R190-ish. I am sure you would have a market though. Some weekend warriors cannot see themselves spending R 1000 for kit.

[Maxrider]

^{Hi Guys, thanks for the replies so far.The gear is good quality and I'm actually waiting for their latest samples to arrive here in about 10 days time. I appreciate Mr Price Sport have the budget sports goods market tied down but their range of cycling gear is very limited and lets face it, the quality is okay but not fantastic. Sportsmans Warehouse on the other hand, own First Ascent and are busy finalising the buy out of Cape Storm and it seems they have a benchmark pricing of R499 for shorts and R399 for tops with the FS brand being slightly cheaper. I just believed there might be a price range somewhere there in the middle that will offer UK quality standard clothing and sizes without the price being asked locally. I cycle myself and felt that local pricing is a little on the high side. Hmm, decisions to be made.}