For decades, mass-produced shoes have dominated the footwear market, often failing to meet the specific needs of people around the world. This is especially true in India, where the traditional way of life often went barefoot.
A study of custom footwear production in India revealed a significant gap between the needs of the Indian market and the designs of most mass-produced shoes. In the late 1980s, when Indian factories primarily produced for European brands, statistics showed that only 5-8% of the Indian population wore footwear daily. Shoes were seen more as a status symbol or a necessity for extreme weather, rather than an essential part of daily life.
Today, the reasons for wearing footwear in India have evolved significantly. With a growing health consciousness and changing environment, people are increasingly recognizing the importance of “proper footwear.” Gone are the days of mud roads; hot tarmac and concrete surfaces are now the norm. Additionally, the rise of health issues like diabetes puts even greater emphasis on foot care.
The Indian footwear market is brimming with brands, but most simply adapt designs and constructions from the West. Western brands, too, offer the same styles they sell elsewhere. It’s interesting to note that footwear likely wasn’t even part of the traditional Indian dress code before British colonization. While shoes were introduced by Westerners over a century ago, Indian footwear design hasn’t necessarily adapted to meet the specific needs of the Indian population.
At AshBaDe, we set out to create a minimalistic footwear specifically tailored to the Indian market, focusing solely on functionality and user needs. By eliminating unnecessary embellishments and ensuring top-quality materials, we arrived at a footwear that is:
- Lightweight
- Supportive and exceptionally comfortable with optimal cushioning
- Designed to fit a wide range of feet
- Easy to maintain, clean, and wear
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Slip-resistant and durable
- Affordable
The result? Our SWALKS! These innovative socks, with their comfortable fit and functional design, allow you to walk comfortably both indoors and outdoors.
We conducted rigorous testing with people of various ages and lifestyles. For our elderly population, a major concern is slipping and falling. The strong grip provided by SWALKS’ ribbed rubber soles significantly reduces the risk of slipping on wet surfaces, offering much-needed peace of mind.
The 12mm inner cushion ensures ultimate comfort, while the breathable sock material, available in both cotton and bamboo versions, keeps feet cool and dry. Bamboo fabric offers an extra advantage: its loose knit construction allows for excellent ventilation, while also being more durable and boasting a beautiful sheen.
SWALKS come in a variety of cheerful colors and multiple models to cater to different foot shapes and needs. We even offer wide-fitting “Flexi” SWALKS for those with swollen feet due to prolonged sitting, standing or other foot conditions.
Finding the Perfect Fit: The Future of the global Footwear scene
The global footwear market is ripe for innovation. By prioritizing function, user needs, and local conditions, we can develop footwear solutions that truly cater to various global population. SWALKS is just one example of this shift towards functionality and user-centric design. As the needs and lifestyles of people continue to evolve, the future of global footwear is sure to be one of continued adaptation and innovation.
SWALKS by AshBaDe! A world-class footwear born in India!