2008 Olympics throws the whole China into a sporting mood, which sets the basic tone for the emergence of new-generation activewear.

Brand new

New "expressive culture brand" Eno aims to encourage a fashion-forward Chinese youth culture by providing a platform for athletes, designers, artists and musicians to express their philosophies via limited edition products, funky retail outlets, and an online community. In their Changle Lu flagship store, designer activewear with Asian pop iconography flies futuristically along a conveyer belt, as Illy coffee is brewed in the mezzanine to music from the DJ booth. The brains behind the project bring experience with Nike China, Coca-Cola, Ogilvy & Mather, and professional sports (basketballer Liu Wei is a founding partner and part-owner), all of which makes this a brand new concept well worth considering.

Location: Eno, 139-23 Changle Lu
Tel: 021-63860120

Meditate on this

With yoga in Shanghai focused as much on the upwardly mobile as their downwardly dogs, it stands to reason that the workout wardrobe should become of import. Frustrated by the dearth of quality fitness gear in Shanghai, Y+ instructor Milla Wu recently opened Shantih Yoga Athletica in the backstreets of Taikang Lu. The petite boutique stocks a range of form-fitting camisole and bra tops, jackets, capris and long pants in breathable materials by North American brands Karma, Breathe, Prana and Tonic, along with mats, yoga books and information on different Shanghai studios. A new workout outfit doesn't come cheap, but what's a RMB 550 pair of leggings on the path to social and spiritual enlightenment?

Location: No 18, Lane 210 Taikang Lu
Tel: 021-64727096

Sneaker peek

In yet another collaboration between high-performance sport's technology and high design, Giorgio Armani has teamed up with Japanese sportswear brand Mizuno to create a series of patented, athletic 'foot gloves'. The two ultra-light unisex designs-'Running' and 'City'-incorporate the latest Mizuno Wave technology providing shock absorption and stability. Look for them at Armani boutiques worldwide-launching spring/summer 2007.