Performance and technology is a trend that can now be found in almost all corporate apparel. The evolution of performance and technology has made these visible and invisible details a staple not only for outdoor activities and sports, but for the office and casual wear as well.
The use of performance and technology can be seen in many of the latest styles. Some prominent examples include lightweight jackets that feature laser perforation, and soft shell jackets that showcase decorative laser cut/welded decoration.
In the early stages, laser cut pockets and seams were initially designed to create less bulk and abrasion by replacing stitching threads, while giving extra strength and mobility. This was ideal for mountain climbers and hikers, but now it has found its way into everyday wear. Applying this technology is useful for its benefits of clean finishes, as well as the ability to create intricate designs through precision laser cutting.
In addition to this impressive technology, the incorporation of the less visible, but comfort and function-driven moisture wicking performance, is evident in many pieces this season. Moisture wicking was initially used in base layers to keep professional athletes comfortable underneath their uniforms. Now it has become a necessity in many performance polo’s and woven shirts within a supplier’s collection, including the incorporation of this feature in mid- and outer layers as well.
Whether participating in a team event, cheering from the sidelines or working within a corporate environment, many mid-layer pieces, such as fleece and insulated jackets, are made to keep you at ease with their impressive moisture wicking performance.
Continuing with the evolution of moisture wicking, other technology options, such as Quick Dry and UTK cool.logik™, are now being offered to enhance the overall comfort level for individuals. Quick Dry technology actually takes moisture wicking to a whole new level. The objective is quite simple: to keep users extraordinarily dry. By pulling moisture at an accelerated rate away from the body to the surface, moisture will be exposed to the air to dry. This specially engineered fabric is found in several new pieces, such as modern fit polo’s designed for physical activity, and allows wearers to keep their composure and stay comfortable in the warmest conditions.
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Another premium technology offering that provides extensive comfort is UTK cool.logik™. This exclusive fabric technology provides a “cool-to-the-touch” experience, offering relief from the heat during the spring and summer seasons. The best way to describe this feeling is to compare it to a marble counter top versus a wooden counter top. That “cooling sensation” provided by a marble counter top is essentially utilized in various apparel options, particularly suited for those who work or play outdoors. The latest styles that use this unique performance technology include eye-catching polo’s that keep the skin cool throughout the day, as well as those that have fabric construction which provide sun protection, using the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating system. In addition, also look for performance designs with such details as ventilation for added breathability or zonal use of thermal linings to optimize warmth and comfort.
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With the popularity of performance synthetics on the rise, many customers who had once been fans of cotton are now looking for alternatives that have the moisture wicking performance they need, combined with the cotton attributes they love. Other options include cotton-blended polo’s with polyester jersey, combed cotton piqué with unique finishes (such as no-wrinkle performance and no-fade), as well as synthetic materials that look and feel just like cotton (such as performance waffle henley’s or polo’s). These alternatives allow for more choices and options, as well as more opportunities to take advantage of the latest technology, with a material that the consumer is already quite familiar with.
One of the hottest trends right now is finding the best way to combine all these performance elements, by keeping in mind the visual appeal, climate, and the wearer’s environment. For example, a moisture wicking performance woven shirt that is solid in color, consists of mesh-lined breathable vents, and incorporates roll-up sleeves for ease of wear, could be the only comfortable garment available when an executive is traveling and wishes to look sharp all day long. Same could be said for an indoor environment, where the wearer could be customer-facing, but requires similar attributes in a different look; a patterned performance woven shirt may be the right alternative here.
All in all, performance can now be found in many different forms. From finishes that are not visible to the eye, to design details that add functionality, to cotton/polyester blended fabrics, the most important step is to explore the options with the right supplier that will offer what best suits your apparel needs.
Elson Yeung is the director of private label design and merchandising for apparel supplier alphabroder.