In recent years, the sportswear industry has witnessed a transformative shift. No longer confined to gyms or athletic fields, activewear has become a versatile fashion category embraced by people across all walks of life. The merging of performance-driven functionality with street-style fashion has made sportswear a global trendsetter, and 2024 is set to take this fusion even further. Let’s explore the top sportswear trends that are dominating 2024, blending technology, comfort, and sustainable fashion with cutting-edge designs.
1. Sustainable Sportswear: Eco-Friendly and Stylish
Sustainability is no longer a trend; it’s a movement, and in 2024, it has become one of the most prominent features of sportswear. Consumers are more eco-conscious than ever, and brands are responding with sustainable practices in fabric production, recycling, and design. Key elements include:
- Recycled materials: Brands like Adidas and Nike have already committed to using recycled polyester, with other companies following suit. We are seeing garments made from ocean plastics, upcycled fabrics, and biodegradable materials.
- Plant-based fibres: From organic cotton to hemp and bamboo, plant-based fibres are becoming more popular. These materials are naturally moisture-wicking and biodegradable, making them perfect for high-performance sportswear.
- Closed-loop production: Leading companies are adopting circular manufacturing processes to ensure that clothing can be returned, recycled, and reused without harming the planet.
The focus on eco-friendliness doesn’t compromise style, with chic designs and high-end finishes that appeal to both athletes and casual wearers alike.
Brands are launching with their core mantra being sustainability and is driven by producing better products for the world. We are huge advocates for sustainable sportswear at Blue Associates Sportswear.
2. Tech-Enhanced Clothing: The Age of Wearable Technology
Technology has long played a role in enhancing sports performance, but 2024 is pushing the boundaries with smart sportswear. From fabrics that monitor vital signs to gear that offers personalised feedback, tech-enhanced clothing is at the forefront of athletic innovation.
- Smart textiles: These fabrics can track metrics like heart rate, temperature, and sweat levels. Integrating micro-sensors into clothing offers real-time feedback without the need for bulky devices like smartwatches.
- Compression wear with a twist: Compression gear is not new, but in 2024, it’s evolving. New materials improve circulation and muscle recovery, while others feature built-in massaging elements that stimulate muscles during and after a workout.
- AI-powered activewear: Artificial intelligence is making its way into sportswear design. Some brands are creating AI-powered suits that track movement and posture, providing feedback to improve technique and reduce injury risk.
This integration of technology makes sportswear more than just apparel; it becomes an essential tool for enhancing athletic performance.
At Blue associates sportswear, we are currently working on several cutting edge “Smartwear” for use in the performance sports and healthcare markets. We have been active in this space for many years and have helped launch some of the world’s most innovative smart sportswear.
3. Bold and Vibrant Colours: Breaking Away from Neutral Tones
While minimalism and neutral tones have ruled sportswear in the past, 2024 marks a refreshing shift toward bold and vibrant colours. Designers are incorporating electric hues, colour-blocking, and striking contrasts, breathing new life into athletic wardrobes.
- Neon and metallics: Bright neons, paired with metallic accents, dominate collections, making workout gear more eye-catching. These shades are not just about aesthetics; some colours are also functional, offering reflective properties for outdoor safety.
- Colour-blocking: This technique is gaining popularity, with contrasting colours placed in geometric patterns that flatter different body shapes. Colour-blocking also enhances visibility, making it a perfect style choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Retro revival: Retro-inspired designs, from 90s track suits to vintage gym shorts, are back in style but with a modern twist. The use of bright pastels, vibrant prints, and oversized logos captures nostalgia while embracing current trends.
2024 is all about self-expression through colour, allowing athletes and fashion-forward individuals to stand out both on the track and off.
4. Gender-Neutral and Inclusive Sizing: Expanding Accessibility
Inclusivity and body positivity continue to be at the forefront of fashion, and sportswear brands are leading the charge by offering gender-neutral designs and expanded size ranges. These trends emphasise that sportswear should cater to everyone, regardless of size, shape, or gender identity.
- Gender-fluid designs: Many top brands are designing collections that transcend traditional gender boundaries. These pieces feature simple silhouettes, minimalist designs, and versatile fits that can be worn by anyone.
- Extended size ranges: Sportswear brands like Lululemon and Athleta are making strides in offering inclusive sizing, with ranges from XXS to 4X or higher. This ensures that every athlete, regardless of their body type, can find clothing that makes them feel comfortable and confident. We recently worked on a range of sportswear that ranged from size 6 to size 28. To accomplish this, the standard grade rules don’t apply and specific grades per size need to be adapted.
- Adaptive sportswear: Another significant trend is the rise of adaptive clothing that accommodates people with disabilities. Velcro closures, magnetic zippers, and flexible fabrics that allow for ease of movement without compromising performance are becoming more commonplace.
This trend reflects the growing demand for sportswear that is inclusive and accessible, making fitness a more welcoming space for all individuals.
5. Seamless and Ultra-Comfortable Design: The Next Level of Athleisure
As athleisure continues to dominate both the runway and the streets, the focus in 2024 is on seamless and ultra-comfortable design. Comfort has always been a priority in sportswear, but now more than ever, it’s being combined with sleek, form-fitting aesthetics.
- Seamless construction: Seamless garments, made using circular knitting techniques, eliminate the need for seams, reducing chafing and improving flexibility. This leads to an ultra-smooth finish that feels like a second skin, ideal for yoga, running, or lounging.
- Luxe fabrics: The use of soft, stretchy materials such as modal, lycra, and high-tech blends gives athleisure a luxurious feel. These fabrics are breathable, moisture-wicking, and offer a great range of motion, perfect for both high-intensity workouts and casual wear.
- Multi-functional pieces: In the fast-paced lifestyle of 2024, versatility is key. Many new collections feature garments that can transition effortlessly from the gym to the office or a night out. Think tailored joggers, structured sports bras that double as crop tops, and sleek hoodies with refined cuts.
This emphasis on comfort, coupled with elegant designs, shows how athleisure continues to evolve into a category that prioritises both functionality and fashion.
6. Sculpted and Form-Fitting Activewear: A Flattering Fit
The trend toward sculpted, form-fitting designs continues to grow in 2024. These pieces are designed not only to enhance athletic performance but also to provide a flattering and confidence-boosting silhouette.
- High-waist leggings: High-rise leggings remain a staple in sportswear due to their ability to provide core support while creating a streamlined look. Many brands are also incorporating compression technology in these leggings to sculpt and enhance body shape.
- Sculpted bras and tops: Designed with a focus on support and lift, sports bras and tops now feature contouring elements like built-in padding, compression zones, and adjustable straps. These additions ensure that athletes feel secure and supported, while still looking sleek.
- Body contouring pieces: From long-sleeve tops to jumpsuits, brands are introducing garments with strategic stitching and panelling that accentuate natural curves. The use of compression and stretch fabric provides a flattering fit those shapes and enhances the body.
This trend merges aesthetics with functionality, allowing athletes to look and feel their best during workouts.
Again, at Blue associates sportswear, we have worked extensively within this area and have developed many products that shape and sculp the body for performance and aesthetic reasons.
7. Performance Meets Streetwear: Athluxury Redefined
The line between sportswear and streetwear continues to blur, and 2024 sees the rise of athluxury—a trend that merges performance gear with high-end fashion elements. This trend is driven by the desire to create clothing that transitions seamlessly from the gym to everyday life.
- Luxury fabrics: Premium materials like cashmere, silk, and superfine merino wool are making their way into sportswear, offering the best of both worlds: comfort and sophistication. These materials are often paired with performance fabrics like nylon and spandex to create versatile, stylish pieces.
- High-fashion collaborations: Brands like Puma, Adidas, and Nike are continuing to collaborate with high-end designers to create limited-edition collections that appeal to both athletes and fashion lovers. These partnerships produce garments that are as stylish as they are functional.
- Elevated accessories: The athluxury trend extends beyond clothing to accessories such as sleek backpacks, designer yoga mats, and minimalist sneakers. These pieces are often understated yet exude an air of sophistication, making them ideal for both workouts and urban life.
The athluxury movement is all about merging the best aspects of athletic performance with the world of high fashion, creating a refined yet functional aesthetic.
8. Cutouts and Mesh Inserts: A Breath of Fresh Air
Breathability is crucial in sportswear, and in 2024, designers are using cutouts and mesh inserts to create functional yet stylish pieces. These elements not only enhance airflow but also add a modern, edgy touch to workout gear.
- Strategic cutouts: From leggings with cutouts along the thighs to tops with open backs or mesh panels, these details create dynamic designs that help regulate body temperature while adding a bold, stylish element.
- Mesh inserts: Mesh panels placed in high-sweat areas like underarms, along the sides, or at the back provide enhanced ventilation. These inserts also add a fashionable flair, making garments stand out.
Cutouts and mesh inserts are more than just design details—they provide practical benefits while keeping athletes looking stylish during their workouts.
If you want to incorporate the latest trends into your new sportswear collection, then please get in touch
