Fast track: Trends in Functional Fabrics and Accessories at Performance Days

The researcher interviewed exhibitors and industry experts at the November 2018 edition of Performance Days in Munich, Germany, to identify the latest trends and innovations in performance fabrics. At the fair, the problem of fibre shedding and the importance of reducing water consumption and water pollution were widely discussed. Indeed, many innovations presented at the fair focused on the use of dyeing technologies which consume little or no water while others focused on fibres derived from recycled waste materials and biodegradable fibres and fabrics. Several companies highlighted the benefits of using anti-odour and temperature control technologies to minimise the need to launder garments.

Awards were presented at the fair to companies which had developed the most innovative fabrics in the categories of performance and environmental sustainability. Many of the fabrics presented at the fair had been inspired by fashion, but there also was an abundance of environmentally sustainable fabrics, lightweight performance fabrics, and fabrics with novel constructions and finishes.

This report provides insight into the general trends and themes presented at Performance Days. Furthermore, it discusses the innovations presented by the award winners, and the latest developments from some of the industry's key players, including 37.5 Technology, HeiQ, Movetec, Polartec, Südwolle Group, and Sympatex Technologies.