Function meets fashion: new materials with colorful looks

22 Jan '10

4 min read

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.

Messe München GmbH

More ISPO News... More Fashion News - Germany...