The active, sporting life gets into the Loop

MANILA, Philippines - Maybe it is because people today, having to deal with the stresses inherent in the frenetic pace of modern life, recognize the value of being healthy and in the best shape. Or it could be that the roteness of everyday living has men and women looking for ways to bring a sense of adventure in their everyday lives via active pursuits, like participating in marathons or climbing walls in high-end sports facilities.

Always in tune with the evolving or shifting needs of the market, Robinsons Malls, one of the country’s most popular purveyors of modern lifestyles, has introduced Sports Loop, an exciting retail concept that addresses the needs and interests of sports aficionados, fitness buffs, the health-conscious, and the many enthusiasts of the active lifestyle.

Unveiled together with the massive redevelopment of its flagship mall, Robinsons Galleria in Ortigas Center, Sports Loop is a specialty zone in the main mall’s third level that has fast become the go-to destination for everyone and anyone into sports, fitness, and health. With its tenant mix that showcases everything from the latest in sports gear and apparel to healthy food options, it is pretty much like a playground for adults.

Those who are avid fans of Manny Pacquiao — or would like to get into boxing for fitness — would be thrilled to know that the boxing great has opened the third branch of his Team Pacquio store in Sports Loop (the first opened  in Robinsons Gen San and the second in Robinsons  Place Manila ). At Team Pacquio, one can shop for all the Pacquio memorabilia he or she wants, along with sports apparel that channel the 11-time world boxing champ’s winning spirit.

Of course, some of the world’s biggest names in sports apparel and the active lifestyle can also be found in Sports Loop, including Nike, Adidas, Converse, Sanuck, Tretorn and Happy Feet, along with esteemed local brands Sandugo, Ducks Unlimited, and Lonely Planet, among others.

And just in case your active interests are not so much into shooting hoops and swinging racquets, but more into weekend war games, there is Weekend Warrior with its plethora of apparel and accessories for those paintball shoot-out tactical games. Now, for real-life professional “warriors,” the Sports Loop also hosts the first-ever store in the country of 5.11, a world-renowned brand in providing superior products that enhance the safety, accuracy, speed and performance of law enforcement, military, and firefighting professionals.

Some of the world’s biggest names in sports apparel and the active lifestyle can be found in Sports Loop, along with esteemed local brands.

Needless to say, the famous brands that have long served the various sports pursuits and active lifestyles of men and women around these parts have also established their base in Sports Loop: Athelete’s Foot, Sportshouse, Toby’s, Proline and Olympic Gold, each a virtual treasure trove of  popular brands of sports and fitness apparel, accessories, and equipment. Other sports and active apparel and footwear hubs that have opened branches in Sports Loop are: DC Shoes, Bomb Proof, Sandra Sports, and The Platform. Opening soon is Capital G, which is not only a purveyor of apparel with a decidedly dance inclination but also has its own dance studio.

And whether one’s active interests run on two or four wheels, the Sports Loop also has these covered. The renowned hub for all sorts of car accessories, Blade has set up shop there, as have Active Motto with its slew of motorcycles and accessories, and All Terra, a haven for enthusiasts of cycling, which has been touted as one of the best aerobic exercises there is as it strengthens not only particular muscle groups but, more importantly, the heart.

Now, those who don’t care much for sweating it out in sports or through active pursuits but do give a premium on their health will also feel at home in Sports Loop, as it not only features the enduring staple that is Old Manila, with its selection of excellent brews and yummy treats, but also Cafeteria Verde, which specializes in vegetarian food done in a more mouthwatering fashion. In plain English, that means utterly tasty food that is good for the body — from tofu burgers to healthy panninis and more. For the fitness buffs who need their protein, there is a branch of Slammer Burgers, which specializes in mini burgers that are big on flavor plus fries that make a tasty mouthful.

With such a solid  tenant mix — which includes Rudy Project eyewear, Phiten titanum accessories, Time Depot to keep track of your best times, and  more apparel from 3 Stars and a Sun and Saplot ni Juan, it is no wonder that Sports Loop has become the favorite destination of active and fitness-minded men and women — that is, of course, after the gym, the hardcourt or the great outdoors.