Market for high visibility apparel set to rise markedly

The market for high visibility apparel is set to rise markedly in the coming years, according to a report in the latest issue of Performance Apparel Markets from the global business information company Textiles Intelligence.

The rise will reflect a number of factors, including increasingly stringent legislation governing the use of high visibility protective apparel, rapid industrialisation in developing countries, advances in wearable technology, and the development of products which are environmentally sustainable.

Furthermore, the introduction of stringent legislation has increased awareness among a broader audience and led to safety campaigns which have increased awareness still further.

Reflecting the rise in awareness, high visibility materials have found their way into an increasing number of apparel categories, including casualwear, corporate apparel, fashionwear, promotional apparel, recreational wear, sportswear and even pet wear. High visibility materials are also increasingly being used in non-apparel items, including backpacks, running shoes and sports equipment such as bicycles.

Increased awareness has also extended to those pursuing other potentially hazardous activities, such as walking and cycling at night.

Wearable technology is becoming increasingly prominent in high visibility apparel as a result of recent technological developments in this area—including washable high visibility garments which incorporate light emitting diodes (LEDs).

Looking ahead, there is much scope for developing high visibility protective apparel with additional functionality—such as flame resistance and antistatic properties.

More generally, comfort is key, and there is demand for products which are compliant with performance standards, provide multiple functions and are very comfortable to wear. As such, an increasing number of products facilitate moisture wicking and breathability.

This emphasis on comfort has also prompted the development of high visibility safety apparel with a more casual style, such as T-shirt styles and jogging pants.

Also, there is demand among cyclists for high visibility garments which successfully combine comfort, safety and style.

This report, "High visibility apparel: providing protection, safety, comfort and style", was published by the global business information company Textiles Intelligence in issue No 58 of Performance Apparel Markets.

Other reports published in the same issue include: "Fast track: trends at ISPO Munich 2017—environmental sustainability and multifunctionality"; "Product developments and innovations"; "Profile of Safe Reflections: a leader in high visibility technologies"; 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 £845 (UK), Euro1,475 (other Europe, Middle East or Africa) or US$1,865 (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, Fulshaw Hall, Wilmslow SK9 1RL, 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