Sunday, January 24, 2010

Germany:Function meets fashion: new materials with colorful looks

 


Whether you are an expert carver or enjoy relaxed turns, in the new season skiers can count on highly technical,professionally finished skiwear inspired by well-known alpinists and athletes.

Material manufacturers continue to work on the relationship between air and water permeability. Polartec developed the latest innovation: air channels integrated into the material ensure two-way air exchange which further increases the breathability of the new Powershield Pro. At the same time the softshell material is extremely water-repellant, which makes it perfect for use even in bad weather. Users are impressed by the softshell jackets and pants’ function as well as light weight and high degree of durability.

The international sports palette also features several new ideas in the sector of body temperature management: jackets are heated thanks to reflection and storage of existing body heat with the help of metallic materials and synthetic fibers. A technology with potential – especially for women who always feel cold. Yet synthetic materials such as PrimaLoft and natural insulation materials such as down and Merino wool continue to see a lot of use in a variety of applications.

Clean cuts and figure-hugging designs result in an uncomplicated look with extensive range of motion thanks to stretch inserts and ergonomically preformed arm and knee sections. Sealed seems, helmet-accommodating hoods, and powder cuffs are standard.Playfuldetails such as brushed buttons, logo-print metal appliquГ©s, or printed zippers supply the outfits with a more casual look. If you prefer something more elegant, you will enjoy the collectionspresented by sportstyle manufacturers, combining technical laminates with fashion elements such as cashmere accessories.

Colors
For the upcoming season expect to see a profusion of colors on the slopes. Colorful to bright, jackets and pants are combined with each other. A sky blue jacket with canary yellow pants? No problem! Complementary colors are in. In addition to all color of the spectrum there are new compositions such as Burnt Orange, Storm Gray, Hot Pink or Sulphur Yellow. In an homage to the Eighties neon colors celebrate a comeback, yet often in a discreet combination with black, white or brown. The inner linings of the skiwear collections are also very colorful, and complement the look when jackets or pant ventilation slits are worn open.

If color is not enough, structured materials for pants and jackets are offered in a wide selection of collections, dominatedby geometric, printed styles: diamonds, pixel prints, herringboneand chessboard patterns, as well as micro images decorate sections of or entire jackets and pants in all-over prints. The elegant luxury segment of winter wear brings back the bright colors of the Eighties as well as the decade’s colorful leopard and camouflage prints.Another attention-getter is the so-called Rock Chic, skijackets cut to resemble leather jackets with a glossy  



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