It is in our nature to want to move. Moving comes naturally to us. Though, the natural elements can be harsh at times and we have the power to be equally harsh to Mother Nature. It’s, therefore, important that the fabrics we choose offer functional as well as protective qualities, while being as kind to the environment as possible.
We have studied and analyzed fashion shows, ISPO(the biggest trade fair for sport businesses), Performance Days (a professional functionalfabrics fair) for Summer 2022 and human behavior to forecast the future fabric trends for sportswear and athleisure. Here’s how innovation and nature have inspired activewear:
INSPIRED BY NATURE
Inclusion of nature in activewear
Nature is inspiring the activewear sector, focusing on natural function and environmentally thoughtful processes. The focus is to be aware of the environmental impact in the manufacturing process and to use natural influences.
Eco processes are taking steps to reduce waste, reuse and recycle, where possible. Awareness of reducing water waste and carbon emissions is important to the production process.
Water saving, eco and natural dyes aim to reduce water use and the impact on the environment. Water-free dyeing technology continues to evolve, allowing possibilities to use less chemicals and more natural minerals, vegetables and botanicals.
New innovations are bringing natural additives and infusions into yarns and fabrics for benefits of functional performance and wellness properties as well as skincare benefits. There are less chemicals used for coatings and treatments, being replaced with natural alternatives such as mineral and wellness infusions.
SUSTAINABLE AND RECYCLED
A green pandemic recovery
The momentum towards an ecologically sound industry continues to accelerate, after the pandemic raised awareness of environmental fragility. There is a growing demand for transparency among consumers.
Recycling single-use plastics such as plastic bottles dramatically decreases carbon emissions and water usage compared to virgin synthetics. Fabrics include polyester blends and nylon blends. Fabric properties have stretch, soft touch and breathability. Comfort has become non-negotiable.
Biodegradable fabrics and coatings are desired for turning end-of-life fabrics into new raw materials for sustainability.
FUNCTION AND TEXTURES
Protective functions combined with interesting textures
Key fabrics have performance and protective functions. The post-pandemic consumer is set to drive an increase in the outdoors and activewear markets. They are seeking out functional, adaptable activewear with multi-end uses.
Functional lifewear will require defense against the elements for an outdoor lifestyle, with windproof, water-repellant, sun-shielding, cooling, thermal and thermo-regulation functions.
Wicking, cooling and breathability are vital for all performance wear, and will combine performance stretch and soft touch.
Global interests in protective clothing push innovation in antimicrobial finishes. Protective and wellness functions include antibacterial, anti-odor finishes and self-cleaning fabrics.
Active fabrics are elevated with interesting textures, including ribs, quilting, jacquards, pocket constructions, and layering fabrics.
Sheen, metallic and translucent finishes will be used for all day active and ath-luxe products.
