Manufacturers of snow sports apparel focus on comfort, protection and style

Today's consumers of snow sports apparel are demanding clothing which -- as well as being breathable, water repellent and wind repellent -- is comfortable, environmentally sustainable, protective and stylish, according to a report in the latest issue of Performance Apparel Markets from the business information company Textiles Intelligence.

Snow sports apparel plays a crucial role in comfort by ensuring that the wearer does not become cold or wet when spending many hours exposed to temperatures below freezing. However, consumers are now demanding garments which will not only keep them warm and dry but which also have enhanced performance properties such as improved breathability, light weight, softness and stretch.

Furthermore, consumers are demanding snow sports clothing which can be worn when participating in other outdoor sports and even for day-to-day wear. As such, style has become critically important, and there is a focus on skiwear which has a sleek aesthetic and incorporates fashionable colours.

Given the importance of comfort and style, manufacturers have developed insulating materials which have low bulk, are stretchable, and, in some cases, provide adjustable levels of insulation.

Moreover, environmental sustainability is seen by consumers as being increasingly important, and this has led to the development of products which are designed to be recycled more easily at the end of their useful lives. Also, there has been an increase in the number of products which incorporate natural fibres, and fibres made from recycled materials.

Specialist protective features are also gaining in prominence as the popularity of activities which are more extreme -- such as off-piste skiing and ski touring -- increases. Several garments now incorporate pockets specifically designed for storing avalanche beacons. Also, there have been developments in specialist safety products such as body armour, helmets, and backpacks which incorporate avalanche air bags.

Looking ahead, the snow sports industry faces many challenges, including the effect of climate change on snowfall, and hence the operation of ski areas, and the overall accessibility of snow sports facilities for new participants. Also, the costs associated with snow sports activities and vacations --including accommodation, equipment rental, ski passes, snow sports apparel and travel -- can be high.

However, there is growing interest in snow sports in developing markets in Asia, and rates of snow sports participation in several countries worldwide remain high.

Overall, consumers of snow sports apparel are willing to pay a premium for products which meet all their demands. As such, the future is bright for companies which can drive technological developments and achieve a balance between comfort protection and style.

This report, "Snow sports apparel: balancing comfort, protection and style", was published by the global business information company Textiles Intelligence in Issue No 54 of Performance Apparel Markets.

Other reports published in the same issue include: "Fast track: new developments in performance apparel fibres and fabrics at ISPO Munich"; "Product developments and innovations"; "Profile of X-Bionic: a high-end sportswear brand"; and "Business update". Performance Apparel Markets is published four times a year by Textiles Intelligence. Each issue provides an independent and worldwide perspective on the global apparel industry.

A year's printed subscription to Performance Apparel Markets costs £820 (UK), Euro1,430 (other Europe, Middle East or Africa) or US$1,810 (Americas or Asia Pacific). An electronic supplement is also available; please contact Textiles Intelligence for details. Single issues, individual reports and multi-report packages are available on request.

For further information, please contact Belinda Carp at Textiles Intelligence, Alderley House, Wilmslow SK9 1AT, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1625 536136; Fax: +44 (0)1625 536137; Email: info@textilesintelligence.com

For press copies and editorial enquiries, please contact Robin Anson at Textiles Intelligence. Tel: +44 (0)1625 536136. Fax: +44 (0)1625 536137. Email: editorial@textilesintelligence.com.