8a Performance traces its origins to founder Arman “Maman” Salada’s experience as a competitive rock climber. While competing locally and internationally, Salada found that high-quality technical apparel was often expensive or difficult to obtain in the Philippines. In response, he established 8a Performance in 2004 with the goal of producing locally designed sportswear that combined technical performance with affordability. [2]

The brand’s name, “8a”, is derived from the French sport climbing grading system, where an 8a route represents an advanced level of climbing difficulty. The name reflects the company’s emphasis on athletic excellence, continuous improvement, and challenging personal limits. [1]

Initially focused on climbing apparel, the company gradually expanded into hiking, cycling, trail running, tactical wear, and general activewear.

8a Performance manufactures and sells a wide variety of sports and outdoor apparel, including:

• Performance pants

• Tactical pants

• Hiking pants

• Cycling shorts

• Running apparel

• Windbreakers and jackets

• Compression wear

• Outdoor shirts

• Base layers

• Performance footwear

• Accessories for outdoor and fitness activities

Many products emphasize:

• Stretch fabrics for mobility

• Lightweight construction

• Quick-drying materials

• Breathability

• Durability for outdoor use

• Functional pockets and ergonomic designs

The company designs products for activities such as:

• Rock climbing

• Hiking

• Trekking

• Camping

• Mountain biking

• Trail running

• Travel

• Fitness training

• Everyday outdoor wear

Its apparel is also marketed toward military, tactical, and adventure users due to its rugged construction. [1]

Popular Product Lines

Among the company’s frequently promoted products are:

• Epic Pants

• Impact Tactical Pants

• Enduro Bike Shorts

• Rushmore Jackets

• Larambla Long-Sleeved Shirts

These products are designed for outdoor mobility, abrasion resistance, and all-day comfort. [1]

8a Performance positions itself as a Filipino performance apparel brand focused on making technical outdoor gear more accessible.

Its stated principles include:

• High-quality craftsmanship

• Affordable pricing

• Durable construction

• Continuous innovation

• Functional design

• Customer-focused product development

The brand frequently uses the slogans:

• “Breathe Adventure”

• “Get Active”

• “Use your gift. Master your craft.”

According to the company, its mission is to enable Filipinos to pursue outdoor adventures without relying exclusively on imported premium brands. [1]

8a Performance primarily serves:

• Outdoor enthusiasts

• Rock climbers

• Hikers

• Cyclists

• Trail runners

• Fitness enthusiasts

• Travelers

• Adventure racers

• Tactical and workwear users

The brand emphasizes equipment suitable for the tropical climate of the Philippines while maintaining performance standards for demanding outdoor activities. [1]

Within the Philippine sporting goods market, 8a Performance occupies the mid-range performance apparel segment. It competes by offering locally developed alternatives to international outdoor brands, with a focus on balancing price, durability, and technical features. Rather than positioning itself as a fashion label, the company markets its products primarily on their utility for adventure sports and active lifestyles. [1]

8a Performance sells through multiple channels, including:

• Official brand stores

• Authorized retailers

• Outdoor equipment dealers

• Online marketplaces

• Official Lazada Philippines store

• Official company website

In 2024, the company opened its first store within an Ayala Malls property, located at Ayala Centrio in Cagayan de Oro. The opening marked an expansion of the brand’s physical retail presence beyond its existing outlets. [1]

On Lazada Philippines, 8a Performance products are commonly listed under the Sports Shoes and Clothing category. The online catalog typically includes:

• Outdoor pants

• Running and training apparel

• Sports shorts

• Jackets

• Compression clothing

• Athletic footwear

• Accessories

The Lazada storefront serves as one of the brand’s major online retail channels alongside its official website. [3]

Since its founding in 2004, 8a Performance has grown from a niche climbing apparel manufacturer into a recognized Filipino outdoor and sportswear brand. Inspired by the demands of professional climbing and adventure sports, the company focuses on producing functional, durable, and affordable technical apparel suited to the needs of athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in the Philippines. With expanding retail locations and a strong presence on e-commerce platforms such as Lazada, 8a Performance has established itself as one of the country’s notable homegrown performance apparel brands. [2]

1. 8a Performance | 0917 710 2401 | Maynila

2. 8a Performance Opens Its First The Ayala Malls Store at Ayala Centrio in CDO | MimaiScribbles

3. Shop 8a Lotus Performance Pants at Best Prices and Deals | Lazada Philippines