Textile Trends
Current
trends in technical sports
textiles
include fabrics and apparel
that provide comfort, manage
moisture, and are lightweight
and flexible. But,
more is being expected of fabrics. Antimicrobial
technology continues it's
strong
growth toward becoming an
"expected" performance characteristic. Stain
resistance/repellency is also
gaining in popularity in some
categories. Other
value-added properties such
as UV protection Environmentally
sensitive fibers and fabrics
also continue strong, with
the use of more natural fibers
and fiber blends, including
bamboo, as well as driving
the development of plant-based
polyermers such as Ingeo®,
Dupont's Sorona®, and fibers
made from soy.
• Technologies allow fabrics to thermoregulate, such as Akwatek/Akwadyne and Outlast, control the atmosphere next to the skin, controlling temperature and comfort.
• Fashion, style, shilouettes and color elements continue to create interest with consumers. The hand, or feel, of fabrics is toward soft and comfortable. Fabrics with stretch provide both comfort and look. Compression fabrics remain popular as a performance enhancement. The development of advanced fibers, such as Holofiber, have also shown a positive effect on the recovery of the body from exertion, improving circulation and oxygenation of the skin.
• Advances in construction include seamless knitting and welded & glued seams, which reduce a garment's weight, provide added protection from wind and rain, and enhance comfort. Advancements in fabric construction include developments of a "new" fleece product such as those produced by Concept III International.
Important Qualities/Products for Today's Technical Sports Textiles:
Moisture
Management
Antimicrobial
Water/Stain Resistant Fabric
|
Thermoregulation
Odor Control
Comfort/Flexibility
|
UV Protection
Sustainability
Welded Seams
|