"ISPO Textrends highlighted the need for meeting personal goals, whether on a high performance level or through experiencing something new on a more leisurely and wellbeing approach. ISPO Textrends expert Louisa Smith says the outdoors market is expanding, brands should be aware of consumer needs, especially the millennials, who are reaching their peak purchase power, seeking out the much sought-after work/life balance, rather than just the hardcore sports participant at a professional level."

ISPO Textrends highlighted the need for meeting personal goals, whether on a high performance level or through experiencing something new on a more leisurely and wellbeing approach. ISPO Textrends expert Louisa Smith says the outdoors market is expanding, brands should be aware of consumer needs, especially the millennials, who are reaching their peak purchase power, seeking out the much sought-after work/life balance, rather than just the hardcore sports participant at a professional level.

Evolution of performance fabrics

In the outdoor market, there is a surge in high performance apparel, soft-wear, backpacks, tents and footwear, with the companies selected to feature in ISPO Textrends at the ISPO Shanghai delivering, not just on function but also style. There is an increase in water sports activities from kayaking to surfing, kite surfing to free diving that crosses over into street sports, inspired by athleisure that has dominated the activewear/lifestyle market. From attending music festivals to taking to travel, performance fabrics feature across a wider spectrum of the market than just the traditional sports market.

Products embrace mega trends

A key mega trend is ‘Moment’ with consumers realising they have an abundance of ‘stuff’ in the form of multiple gadgets, appliances and personal possessions, there is a notable mood to pushing forward to outdoor experiences to share on social media and via group apps. They now realise activities and experiences shared on social media have much more kudos than having the latest must-have item. This is about taking time out, encountering new experiences and locations in the great outdoors through to more extreme sports, and most importantly sharing it.

Fabrics selected for the season have also embraced the ‘Dynamic’ mega trend, focusing on renewed efficiency that comes into play as sustainability comes into focus. A range of recycled and biosynthetic fabrics feature alongside the inherent and also enhanced possibilities of natural fibres including cotton, merino wool and modal. Cleaner technology also comes through with one dye-bath processing, reducing water consumption to layering technology that adds value to the consumer, eliminating finishing process and harsh finishes.

Hybrid fabrics that reduce garment processing stage also feature as body mapping and zoning are applied into the fabric seamlessly, rather than being inserted by machine. The final mega trend, ‘Calm’, is evident through all selected products. With a noticeable nod towards lightweight qualities and a new sensual and soft touch in all sectors of the market without neglecting the multi-functional technically and creativity. Surface effects also come through, with the colour palette for the season ranging from a deep intensity contrasting with a fresh tropical tone through to muted hues.

ISPO Shanghai – a showcase for 2019 trends

From July 6-8, 2017, the innovative ISPO Textrends forum will highlight all latest developments for Spring/Summer 2019 at ISPO Shanghai. In addition, on July 7, there will be a fully illustrated presentation of not just trends and colour palette for this season but also a recap of the trends for Fall/Winter 2018-19.