runstyle

T he focus of material innovation for active sportswear has long been driven by developing textiles to help athletes perform like well-oiled machines, training efficiently and competing at their best. Now however, high-tech functionality also meets eco-friendly standards, giving way to a new class of fabrications that are advantageous both to the individual and the environment. Here's a quick rundown of five key textile trends influencing the future of running apparel and footwear: Trend #1: Strides in Performance Rheon Labs reactivewear relies on RHEON film technology that is strategically placed in garments across major muscles, or so tissue, adapting to movement to provide support. Director of apparel Simon Huntsman explains that the material stiffens during high-intensity movements, and soens during lower-impact motion. In running tights for example, the inherent dynamic properties help control muscle shearing (muscles moving out of plane) by responding with tension when subjected to force providing runners enhanced efficiency. When used in a sports bra application, RHEON film provides the primary support mechanism, thus reducing the need for high compression, which is oen associated with discomfort. Polartec Delta fabric combines a unique fabric construction and fiber blend to raise the bar in keeping runners cool in the heat and comfortable in cool conditions. e technical knit fabric is a blend of polyester and Tencel fibers that work in concert to take moisture off the body quickly for rapid drying. Delta fabric also features increased airflow with its distinct raised texture. "It feels like it floats on top of your skin," states Polartec's product development manager Aimee LaValley who runs in Delta tops year-round. NexTex Innovations debuted in Saucony's Pinnacle Collection with t-shirts, for men and women, made with a polyester knit front panel powered by NexTex's TurboDry technology. e fabric technology utilizes biomimicry – an approach that takes inspiration from nature's solutions – to create yarns that move sweat to the outside of the garment lickety-split for a remarkably quick dry time, keeping runners more comfortable. Trend #2: Natural Fibers Gain Ground A resurgence of interest in natural fibers for active performance wear has ushered in a slew of new options – from materials using hemp, Tencel and organic cotton to cotton blended with yak fiber. Wool innovation has been off the charts, with exceptional advances in merino wool in particular. "Runners, much like golfers and hunters, oen don't think of apparel as technical equipment, but a merino wool garment is as technical as gear," shares Jose Fernandez, founder of Global Merino, a specialist offering apparel in variety of merino weights from super-light to winter-warm, all featuring wool's lineup of inherent performance characteristics; the crimp in the fiber 5 TRENDS IN THE RUNNING DESIGN 16 runstyle Fall 2023 runstylemag.com HARD-CORE FABRIC PERFORMANCE THAT'S EASY ON THE EARTH. BY EMILY WALZER Left to right: adidas Training Techfit Control apparel featuring Rheon Labs film technology; JRC Reflex reflective Air Stripe jacket.

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