sportstyle

Fashion Leads When shoppers today drop a couple hundred dollars on an athleisure/active outfit, they expect to wear it everywhere. is is a change from just a few years ago, where one would never think of wearing schlubby workout clothes to lunch. With that, there is a certain expectation of both fashion and function, some of which has trickled down from the upper echelons of what some Japanese brands like And Wander and Comfy Outdoor Garment have done, described by ALLIED Feather + Down Creative Director Matthew Betcher as "driving fashion and performance in a sincere way." Interest continues to grow "as these types of garments tend to last longer and have a wider range of use, making expensive purchases more valuable for the consumer." From studio to street, FP Movement offers performance-ready activewear that reflects the power of movement. e Philadelphia, PA-based brand's new packable Iridescent Bio-Based Membrane Singin In the Rain Jacket ($298) features a plant-based (castor beans) waterproof 3L membrane powered by eVent BIO; and is fully seam sealed, has a wind-resistant finish, Velcro adjustable cuff detail, zippered front pockets and reflective details. "People from the active fashion world are seeking out technology," explained Chad Kelly, eVent president. "Just five or six years ago, no one wanted to talk about bio products. Today, all are coming around to it," he added. eVent BIO is a light, tough and flexible membrane that offers protection against wind, rain and snow in a highly breathable laminate. e 2024 Sweaty Betty x Merrell Collection is described as "where fashion meets function Featherie Founder Kate Korngold 16 • July/August 2024 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com DESIGN / MODERN PERFORMANCE

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