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Function meets fashion: new materials with colorful looks

Function meets fashion: new materials with colorful looks

Write: Odern [2011-05-20]
Whether you are an expert carver or enjoy relaxed turns, in the new season skiers can count on highly technical,professionally finished skiwear inspired by well-known alpinists and athletes.
Material manufacturers continue to work on the relationship between air and water permeability. Polartec developed the latest innovation: air channels integrated into the material ensure two-way air exchange which further increases the breathability of the new Powershield Pro. At the same time the softshell material is extremely water-repellant, which makes it perfect for use even in bad weather. Users are impressed by the softshell jackets and pants’ function as well as light weight and high degree of durability.
The international sports palette also features several new ideas in the sector of body temperature management: jackets are heated thanks to reflection and storage of existing body heat with the help of metallic materials and synthetic fibers. A technology with potential – especially for women who always feel cold. Yet synthetic materials such as PrimaLoft and natural insulation materials such as down and Merino wool continue to see a lot of use in a variety of applications.
Clean cuts and figure-hugging designs result in an uncomplicated look with extensive range of motion thanks to stretch inserts and ergonomically preformed arm and knee sections. Sealed seems, helmet-accommodating hoods, and powder cuffs are standard.Playful details such as brushed buttons, logo-print metal appliqués, or printed zippers supply the outfits with a more casual look. If you prefer something more elegant, you will enjoy the collections presented by sportstyle manufacturers, combining technical laminates with fashion elements such as cashmere accessories.
Colors
For the upcoming season expect to see a profusion of colors on the slopes. Colorful to bright, jackets and pants are combined with each other. A sky blue jacket with canary yellow pants? No problem! Complementary colors are in. In addition to all color of the spectrum there are new compositions such as Burnt Orange, Storm Gray, Hot Pink or Sulphur Yellow. In an homage to the Eighties neon colors celebrate a comeback, yet often in a discreet combination with black, white or brown. The inner linings of the skiwear collections are also very colorful, and complement the look when jackets or pant ventilation slits are worn open.
If color is not enough, structured materials for pants and jackets are offered in a wide selection of collections, dominated by geometric, printed styles: diamonds, pixel prints, herringbone and chessboard patterns, as well as micro images decorate sections of or entire jackets and pants in all-over prints. The elegant luxury segment of winter wear brings back the bright colors of the Eighties as well as the decade’s colorful leopard and camouflage prints.Another attention-getter is the so-called Rock Chic, skijackets cut to resemble leather jackets with a glossy leather look, bringing Rockabilly flair to the slopes and snow bars. Fur elements, alpaca wool and silk appliqués provide these outfits with a timeless elegance. Laminate coatings continue to be in; metallic surfaces and color-gradient prints emphasize the modern retro design.
Sustainability
While only a few years ago sustainably manufactured sports apparel was still the exception, it has become more common for companies to listen to their ecological conscience. Recycled materials, blue-sign certified textiles, and natural, eco-friendly resources are the response to consumers’ newly found eco-aware lifestyle. Just because a material is recycled does not mean you can recognize it as such: these days eco-friendliness is stylish. However, the companies’ environmental activities are not limited to their products; they often extend across all facets of company management. Transport, energy, waste and resource management are taken under closer observation and improved where needed. A number of well-known companies already received international eco-awards for their environmental strategies.
Powder
Backcountry, frontcountry, freeride – an increasing number of skiers look for adventure off the groomed runs, enjoy the exhilaration of powder skiing and the closeness to nature.Textile manufacturers are now responding to this trend and are beginning to offer skiwear specially designed for powder. Of course, these products are made with high-tech membranes, ensuring balanced body temperature management during long ascents and rapid downhill runs. Cut slightly longer, the jackets offer additional protection for exposed body parts and a relaxed design provides increased range of motion. Snow-proof connection options for jackets and pants turn combinations into overalls and keep skiers dry and warm even in the deepest of powder. The color palette for powder snow skiwear includes strong, plain shades; the cuts are clean and straight, without excessive frills. Everything is designed for function, for unadulterated powder adventures.
These and other fashion trends will be exhibited at ispo 10 in halls B1 (ispovision), B2, and B3 (sportstyle_ispo) at the New Munich Trade Fair from February 7th to 10th, 2010.