Specific testing for performance sportswear

Sportswear aims at improving athletes' performance either by optimizing thermal and moisture management, by supporting their movements, or by improving aerodynamics in high-speed sports. In order to differentiate the performance of these garments, adapted test methods are needed that allow the demonstration of their benefits during sports activities and thus help manufacturers prove that these are not mere marketing claims. The test methods assess the interactions between the fabric/garment and the human skin, respectively between the garment and the whole human body. Furthermore, they have to account for specific movements and postures during sports activities. Therefore, body-shaped test devices are increasingly used to be able to assess not only fabric properties, but also the effects of garment design and fit. This chapter provides an overview of specific test methods used to demonstrate thermal and biomechanical characteristics of sportswear for optimal performance.

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