The sportswear industry is booming, driven by the demand for high-performance and stylish activewear that now form part of everyday wear.
Athleisure is now a staple look with activewear now been worn as everyday items at home, in the office as well as in the gym.
Becoming a sportswear designer requires a blend of passion, creativity, technical skills, fibre and fabric and an understanding of engineering. If you’re passionate about designing functional and fashionable sportswear, this guide will help you navigate the journey to becoming a professional in the sportswear field.
Understanding the Role of a Sportswear Designer
A sportswear designer creates performance clothing and accessories tailored for athletic performance and active lifestyles. Their responsibilities include:
- Researching trends in activewear and fashion
- Selecting suitable materials and textiles using the correct blend of fibres
- Creating functional and ergonomic designs with features that add performance
- Collaborating with manufacturers and suppliers that specialise in sportswear
- Incorporating brand identity and values into designs
- Balancing aesthetics with performance, function and durability
Step 1: Develop a Strong Foundation in Fashion Design
Get an Education
A formal education in fashion design, textile technology, or a related field can provide essential skills.
A Degree or Masters in Fashion or sportswear design is generally required to secure your first role within the industry. This Degree will give you the foundation in what is required to perform as a sportswear designer including -:
- Research
- Trend Boards
- Colour theory
- Feature engineering
- Fabric and fibre
- Pattern cutting and sculpting
- Manufacturing process and skills
- Tech pack creation
- Design skills
- Print and textiles
- Presentation
- Costing structure
- Range building
Consider enrolling in programs that specialise in sportswear or performance apparel. Some of the best institutions for fashion and sportswear design include:
- Royal College of Arts
- Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
- Parsons School of Design
- Central Saint Martins
- London College of Fashion
- UCA
Learn About Fabric and Fibre Technology
Sportswear relies on innovative fabrics that offer breathability, moisture-wicking, and durability. Gain knowledge in:
- Synthetic fibres like polyester, spandex, and nylon
- Sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, merino wool and bamboo fabric
- Textile treatments like water resistance and UV protection
- Stretch fibres like lycra®
It key to understand the individual properties of every performance fibre so you can select the right blend to make the athlete as comfortable as possible. 1 fibres doesn’t cut it for all layers and often sportswear is made from a blend of 2 or more fibres to improve stretch, performance or durability.
Only when you understand the differences in fibres can you start to select the right fabrics for the design and needs of the consumer.
Understand the Science of Movement
Sportswear design isn’t just about aesthetics; it must support an athlete’s movements. Studying anatomy and biomechanics will help you create garments that enhance performance and prevent injuries.
Perhaps take time to do the activity or sport so you can understand what the athlete needs. Bu physically doing the sport, you will understand movement, stretch, heat, and features that need to be built into the product.
Step 2: Gain Practical Experience
Work on Personal Projects
Start designing your own sportswear collections to build your portfolio. Experiment with different fabrics, silhouettes, and construction techniques.
Start to build a portfolio that represent your style but cater to the needs of each sport and athlete.
Internships and Apprenticeships
Working with established sportswear brands through internships can provide hands-on experience. Look for opportunities with companies like Nike, Adidas, Puma, or Lululemon.
Expect to work for free if you target these sportswear giants as they get inundated with graduates wanting to work there for their placement.
Also consider smaller brands that specialise in their field. Working for a smaller brand or supplier may give you a wider understanding of the entire process as departments are not as big with a smaller team doing more than one specific task.
Learn Digital Design Tools
Proficiency in software like Adobe Illustrator, CLO 3D, and CorelDRAW is essential for sportswear designers. Digital tools help in sketching, pattern making, and creating 3D prototypes.
At Blue Associates Sportswear, we tend to utilise Adobe Illustrator for 2D and tech packs and Clo3D for the pattern work and presentations.
Step 3: Build a Portfolio
A strong portfolio showcases your skills, creativity, and understanding of sportswear functionality. Include:
- Sketches and digital renderings of designs
- Fabric swatches and material selections
- Technical drawings and specifications (Tech packs)
- Design illustrations
- Completed garments or prototypes
Having a diverse portfolio will help attract potential employers or investors if you plan to start your own brand.
Look to publish your portfolio on platforms like Behance so employers can review your work easily.
Step 4: Keep Up with Industry Trends
Attend Trade Shows and Fashion Weeks
Events like ISPO, Outdoor Retailer, and Premiere Vision Paris showcase the latest innovations in activewear.
Follow Leading Brands and Designers
Stay updated on what brands are up to. From Thru Dark, The North Face to Acteryx. Analyse more than brands you like personally to see their design approaches, materials, and technology.
Study their range, and make up as you will often find detailing on high end technical apparel that you may not have seen before or will inspire your next creation.
Network with Industry Professionals
Connect with Sportswear designers, textile engineers, and entrepreneurs in the sportswear industry through LinkedIn, fashion events, and online communities.
Understand who the movers and shakers are within your niche.
Step 5: Start Your Career in Sportswear Design
Work for a Sportswear Brand
Start as a junior designer or assistant in an established company to gain experience and industry exposure.
When you go for your interview, know everything about that brand. Ask questions and perhaps create a micro collection for their brand so they can see your talent and dedication to want to work there.
Competition is high so make sure you stand out and focus on finding jobs with a brand you really love.
Launch Your Own Brand
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, consider starting your own activewear brand. This involves:
- Identifying a niche (e.g., sustainable sportswear, high-performance gear)
- Sourcing partners and suppliers
- Creating a brand identity and marketing strategy
- Selling through e-commerce platforms or retail stores
At Blue Associates Sportswear, we specialise in helping entrepreneurs launch their start-up sportswear brands. We work with around 50 start-ups at once around the world across all sporting categories.
Becoming a sportswear designer requires creativity, technical expertise, and persistence. Whether you choose to work for a brand or launch your own line, the key is to stay innovative, continuously learn, and push the boundaries of design and functionality in activewear. With dedication, you can make a mark in the ever-evolving world of sportswear fashion.
