BASIC CATEGORIES
BASE LAYER
Next-to-skin fabrics with pre-shaping, support, thermal or moisture management performance. Softness, comfort, anti-bacterial or eco-friendly properties are added values.
SECOND LAYER
Fleece fabrics, lightweight protective fabrics and performance linings, stretch or non-stretch. Advanced thermal management. Natural fibers from wool and cotton sustainable fibers, including cellulosic, work alongside next-generation synthetics, both virgin and recycled.
OUTER LAYER
Lightweight but ultra-resistant woven shell fabrics, with surface performance. Stretch, waterproof, windproof, breathable feature for ultimate protection against the elements. High tenacity micro light rip stops work alongside matte and bright woven fabrics.
MEMBRANES & COATING
Technical membranes, stretch, waterproof, windproof with two or three layers. Reflective and UV-resistant are added values. Teaming function with fashion as colored and printed graphics combine.
STREET SPORTS
Fabrics range from ubiquitous denim with new performance levels to lighter functional fabrics and finishes with a fashionable edge that meets the demand of today’s urban offering for second and outer layers.
SOFT EQUIPMENT
Performance products for tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, shoes, etc. Lightweight, durable, abrasion-resistant, UV-protecting, waterproof, etc. are required benefits.
FIBERS & INSULATION
Traditional feather down, hollow and cross-section man-made or natural fibers with enhanced benefits for activewear. Biomimicry features through virgin and recycled synthetic fiber delivery, with thermal regulating finishes offering added warmth.
TRIMS & CUSTOMISATIONS
Films and tapes for protective sealings and welded applications feature. Technicity combines with creativity, as technical ribbons, cords, embossing and transfers offer the opportunity to create a customized signature style.
ACCESSORIES
Essential ingredients ranging from zippers to buttons and snappers in a wide range of materials. Innovation features in lightweight, durable and waterproof functionality, strong performance essential to the physical activity and the life of a product.
BEACHWEAR
From scuba to swimwear, functional fabrics are key to the increase in water sports. Quick-dry, UV+, salt, sand, and sun lotion resistance allow a higher level of flexibility and durability. Recycled synthetics, especially from the ocean appeal with beach-to-street apparel adapting to different occasions and adding to the eco aspect of less is more.
CROSS CATEGORIES
Across some categories (Base Layer, Second Layer, Outer Layer, Street Sports, Membranes & Coating and Soft Equipment) we will honor products with outstanding achievements in terms of sustainability and products that stand out for their finishes.
During the application process, participants can choose whether they want to be part of one of these special evaluations. At the jury meeting, the jury will decide which products qualify for Accelerated Eco or Performing Finishes and move these products to the respective category. Products that do not qualify for the Cross Categories will be evaluated within the basic category they have originally been entered for.
ACCELERATED ECO
Products setting a new standard in terms of sustainability: innovative performance yarns that require reduced heat for settability, heightened efficiency in terms of water and energy savings, a reduction of waste and reduced or optimized processes throughout the textile chain. E.g. recycled or biodegradable yarns, yarns for long-lasting products, dope-dyed yarns for water and energy saving, natural dyes, etc.
PERFORMING FINISHES
Outstanding innovations in terms of finishes: products that are using anti-odor, anti-bacterial or protective finishes for well-being and personal protection. E.g. far infra-red, chromatic change coating, reflective finishes, smart finishes etc.
