FITNESS CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS
There are many kind of fitness jackets. Different fitness jackets come with different characteristics and functions. Fitness jackets can for example be made to be lightweight and moisture wicking, or warm and moisture absorbing.
Common performance minded fitness jackets are:
• Cool and light training jackets
• Wind and waterproof light running jackets
• Warm winter training jackets
When planning to produce a fitness jacket, first the functionality has to be determined. Based on the intended usage, the materials and key features have to be chosen. Key features include pockets, the closure of these pockets, jackets closures such as zippers, buttons or velcro. Coverage, such as zipper guards, ribbed cuff and hems and proper insulation also play key roles.
Wool |
very warm, breathable, eco-friendly, wicking, antimicrobial, not machine washable |
Cotton |
warm, breathable, eco-friendly, moisture absorbent |
Polyester |
cool or warm, waterproof, windproof, polyethylene terephthalate (fleece), anti-bacterial, anti-static, anti-uv, quick dry, softshell, breathable, warmer and generally stretchy, moisture-wicking |
Acrylic |
generally hypoallergenic, wool or cashmere like feel, Strong, warm, stretchable, waterproof, windproof |
Spandex |
cool, breathable, stretchable, shape recovery, quick dry, water repellent, anti-bacterial, anti-static, anti-UV, wicks moisture |
Nylon |
soft feeling, durable, resistant to heat and tears, lightweight, takes on dye very well, does not wrinkle, water repellent, anti-bacterial, anti-static, anti-UV, breathable, moisture-wicking |
More materials |
According to customers’ requirements |
Different materials have different characteristics. Cotton for example is breathable, waterabsorband and warm. Once wet however, the material is heavy and can lead to chafing.
Materials should be chosen based on the jacket’s requirements. Clearly defining the proportion of each material, helps factories to better understand your needs and achieve the required characteristics.
Brands which are new to a specific sports clothing segment, are advised to find the right material combinations by wearing clothes from different sports brands. Most clothing brands state the used materials on a tag fixed to the clothes.
Sports brands often combine different materials to get a technical fabric that has specific required characteristics. Example fabric combinations are:
Another important factor is a fabric’s weight. Material weight is communicated in grams per square meter GSM. Weight can range on the low side from 180 GSM (grams per meter square) that you’ll find at the massive big box bricks and mortar discount stores upwards to 310 GSM. Light fabrics range from 30 to 150 GSM, while fabrics above 350 GSM are considered heavy. Cotton t-shirts for example range from light shirts with 150 GSM to heavy shirts with 250 GSM.
Light training jackets made of 100% polyester generally have a weight between 70 to 150 GSM. Training jackets made of 100% nylon, are lighter with a weight of down to only 45 GSM or less. Warming, wind and waterproof protective training jackets generally have a higher weight. Kappa’s cross training jacket for example is at 205 GSM with 88% polyester and 12% elasthan. See: http://www.kappa.com.hk/e/ptxwebstore_product/Cross-Training-Jacket-20.html
Nike’s Pro HyperWarm Half-Zip Women's Long Sleeve Training Top
http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/pd/pro-hyperwarm-half-zip-womens-long-sleeve-training-top/pid-11109630/pgid-11813282
Nike writes: “The advanced performance warming fitness jacket, is perfect for training in cooler temperatures. It delivers warmth, breathability and sweat-wicking performance. Nike Pro HyperWarm technology combines sweat-wicking thermal fabric with targeted ventilation to help you stay dry and warm in colder conditions without overheating. Mesh underarm gussets allow full range of motion while adding breathability where you need it most. A half-zip mock neck makes it easy to cool down or warm up. A zipper guard feels smooth against your neck and chin. The seamless design feels smooth against skin. Slightly dropped back hem enhances coverage. “
Nike used the following machine washable fabrics:
• Body: 87% polyester/13% spandex.
• Sleeves: 88% polyester/12% spandex
• Mesh: 81% polyester/19% spandex.
Nike’s Shield Women's Running Jacket
http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/pd/shield-womens-running-jacket/pid-11110274/pgid-11167364
Nike writes: “ The lightweight protective Nike Shield Women's Running Jacket is made to keep you dry and comfortable. Nike Shield fabric on the front, sleeves and hood has a DWR (durable, water-repellent) coating, while a lightweight nylon back protects from water and wind. Dri-FIT Technology helps keep you dry and comfortable. Critically sealed seams help keep moisture out. Adjustable back hem and removable hood. Side zip pockets with interior media-cord port. Reflective elements stand out in low light.”
Nike used the following machine washable fabric:
• fitness t-shirts manufacturer information
• fitness work out pants manufacturer information
• fitness underwear manufacturer information
• fitness bras manufacturer information
• fitness socks manufacturer information
• fitness glove manufacturer information