Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1528341
T here is good news for performance textile suppliers; demand for technical gear inspired by urban sports is expected to keep growing. is is more than the much-hyped gorpcore; it is a new cross level breed of multifunctionality, taking the consumer on their commute to work, to outdoor activities and through to an overall stronger sense of style. Innovation in performance textiles is opening up new possibilities for the industry. Where better to start for a strong source of inspiration than at SPOT24, an exhibition celebrating the legacy of the summer Olympic Games. Located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, SPOT24, which runs through December, offers an immersive and interactive experience through works and images from the Olympic Museum's collections and original creations by French and international artists. It highlights the six new Olympic disciplines— skateboarding, sport climbing, BMX freestyle, surfing, 3×3 basketball, and breaking—and the spirited cultures surrounding them. What a feast of inspiration, from private collectors loaning their retro skateboard stickers to nostalgic graphics outlining how these sports crossed the globe, influencing a new generation of urban athletes. Breaking originated in New York in the 1970s, later crossed the Atlantic and only at this year's Olympics was it recognized as an official discipline. It was illustrated in an immersive experience in a subway car, complete with urban art and music. is urban attitude isn't just about sports; it is about the music, the graphics, the language and the expression that emanates from the streets. ese are the playgrounds of movement, self-expression and customization. e street vibe is unadulterated pleasure, a new striking style with a sassy attitude that distinguishes it from the traditional outdoors. Inspiration from this exhibition is driving an edgier street style, that can complement gorpcore. Today's consumer doesn't need to ride a bike or skateboard to be part of this lifestyle. is sector is an open book to all interested in making their lives easier. While skateboard parks, basketball courts and climbing walls continue to be featured in the city landscape, it is a new direction in urban mobility that makes this trend appealing. With more cities "pedestrianized," where cycling is encouraged and scooters and bikes are readily available, protection is becoming crucial in arriving to work clean and dry - and where better to look than fabrics and trims designated for the great outdoors. A new breed of street style is emerging for fashion and street, with a pull from a pool of performance ingredients. We are all too aware of the traditional functions of water repellency, windproofing, membrane technology, recycled synthetics and bio-based developments. But take it one step further: Deliver to today's consumer a street style that easily transcends to the ski slopes. is isn't just a sustainable merit—buy better, PUMPED UP Urban sports fuel a new level of creativity in performance textiles. By Louisa Smith IN THE MARKET/EURO REPORT This urban attitude isn't just about sports; it is about the music, the graphics, the language and the expression that emanates from the streets. These are the playgrounds of movement, self-expression and customization. 6 • Textile Insight ~ Fall 2024 textileinsight.com Gritty, urban inspiration translates through to textiles and trims.