sportstyle

Weather-Shielding Headgear "People are buying versatile items that can be cross-functional through different seasons by using layering. ey're also looking more for sun protection built into apparel and headwear. And stronger storms and more intense rain mean that rain jackets are must-own items in an increasing number of markets. We're choosing technical fabrics that lend themselves to everyday wear in simple, modern silhouettes with comfort in mind." — Charlie Berg, outdoor product manager, Outdoor Research. For Spring 2023, Outdoor Research is expanding on the Swi hat program with three additional styles – the Swi Air Cap, Swi Visor and Swi Bucket. ese are lightweight, performance headwear styles with UPF 30+ protection. Some other sun styles from the firm feature ActiveIce, which is a thermoregulating fabric treatment offering a cooling effect. Climate-Sheltering Footwear "We have noticed items that have functional appeal, as well as elements of fashion, are dominating the market. is could be waterproofing or water resistance, or some type of insulation/lining, but combined with trends that you wouldn't expect to see performance features in." — Sydney Simas, VP sales and marketing, Simco Imported Shoes. e Phisis is a shoe that features a flexible knit upper that stretches for ease (wrapping the foot like a sock) when slipping on and off. Due to the technical characteristics of the yarn (100 percent recycled polyester) and its construction (double-sided knit with thermoformed resin on the sides near the sole), it has a higher repellency to water drop penetration than a conventional knit shoe. ere is a removable recycled insole, antiviral sole and the production process is zero waste. "Slides that can be worn with socks in the fall/winter/spring (and without in the summer) are seeing a rise. We also see booties that are bought in the fall and worn with a jacket and jeans, worn again in the summer with a pretty boho dress. We have started using water-resistant leathers in some boots for harsh winters, with a warmer lining. Additionally, we have vegan, knitted styles that can be worn year-round and are easy on/off." — Ayelet Lax Levy, president, Naot Footwear USA. Naot products are handcraed in Israel, using all Italian leather, even in water-resistant product, for the country's stricter environmental laws. e cork used is Portuguese and harvested off trees every 40 years. e Helm bootie features double zippers for accessibility, along with a padded heel cup and instep for comfort. Naot's removable, anatomic cork & latex footbed is wrapped in microfiber and leather and molds to the shape of the foot with wear. It contains a 1.5" poly- urethane sole with a metal shank which is extremely lightweight, durable & abrasive to prevent slipping. n Craft ADV Essence Hydro Jacket Arcopedico Phisis Naot Helm 50 • January/February 2023 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com DESIGN / CROSS-FUNCTIONAL FABRICS

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