Avi industries has t-shirts that dry double fast and socks that keep you warm in -20 degrees
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Avi industries has t-shirts that dry double fast and socks that keep you warm in -20 degrees
Whether it's the promise of steaming Idlis or the guarantee of quality goods at down-to-earth prices, Matunga is teaming with quirky surprises. Located on the ground floor of the weathered Shriji Sadan is Avi Industries, a store that specialises in trekking, rock climbing and mountaineering equipment, and possibly one of the suburb's best-kept secrets.
Kamath, who has completed certified courses in mountaineering including one under legendary Mount Everest scaler Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, says getting into the business was accidental. "I am a commerce graduate. Mountaineering is a hobby. I started by making things for myself since specialised equipment or even raw materials weren't easily available at the time."
Today, Avi Industries is the sole distributor for companies including Fixe-Faders and Mund from Spain, and Rock Empire and Makak from the Czech Republic. They even custom-make sweaters for those moving to colder climates. "We use synthetic fabric as it's light-weight and quick-drying," says Kamath.
Be sure to take the yellowed sign, taped on to the wall that reads, "All Rates Fixed", seriously. For as Kamath will himself sternly inform you, "We don't give discounts because we don't overcharge our customers."
Rock-climbing shoes
The first in the series of shoes designed by iconic rock climber Chris Sharma, the Pontas is said to be ideal for the toughest climbs.
For: Rs 5,000
Quick-dry tees
Imported from France, these half-sleeved T-shirts are ideal for day-long treks in warm weather. They dry within an hour of being washed and are convenient to carry in your haversack.
For: Rs 599 (S, M, L, XL)
Everest socks
We didn't know we could go to places as cold as minus 20 degrees C! With these anti-bacterial, anti-fungal socks, made from synthetic fibres, your feet will stay warm and well-looked after.
For: Rs 550 onwards
Fancy headgear
Available in a range of bright colours, funky designs, and celeb heads (don't miss Audrey Hepburn!), these bandanas can be tied in 10 different ways. A bit pricey, but these serve more than just decorative value and help shield you from harmful UV rays.
For: Rs 800 to Rs 1,400
At: 13, Shriji Sadan, 352, Chandavarkar Road, Matunga (E), Mumbai. Call: 24143810
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