With summer coming to an end, we thought this would be a good time to get caught up on some of the current and future trends in the outdoor apparel industry. In this installment of our “Interviews with the Experts” series, we met with outdoor industry expert, Jenni Sanders. Jenni, senior account specialist for YKK (U.S.A.) Inc.’s Global Marketing Group, is currently based in Denver, Colorado (a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts!) to better support our customers in the outdoor industry. Jenni shared the top trends shaping the outdoor apparel industry.
- Multi-Functional Comfort: Athleisure continues to be a growing trend as consumers demand garments that can be worn both at work and the gym without sacrificing comfort, style or quality.
- Wearable Tech: Technology has allowed brands to add new functions to their garments by enabling buyers to connect to other like-minded people on apps and learn about the various features of the garments they love. “Wearable Tech allows consumers to connect with their clothing in ways they never have before. We’re seeing technology incorporated into garments which allow brands to share information with just the wave of their customer’s phones, or technology which can monitor and help improve an athlete’s performance,” shared Jenni. “I think we’re at the beginning of what could be a very exciting time for the outdoor industry.”
- Sustainability: As consumers become more environmentally conscious, brands are focusing on developing highly functional garments while reducing their environmental impact. “Consumers and brands alike are searching for sustainable, breathable, PFC- Free fabrics that are durable and comfortable,” shared Jenni. This also applies to zippers and other sewing notions. YKK offers an entire line of sustainable products including NATULON® and plant-derived zippers, such as the newly launched GreenRise™, to meet the industry demands.
- New technology: Following consumers demands in terms of green and sustainable technologies, brands are now searching for sustainable and durable PFC-Free DWR (Durable Water Repellant) solutions. YKK’s water resistant AQUAGUARD®zipper series caters to consumers’ demands by offering PFC-Free DWR options for many fastening needs. Watch our water resistant products video filmed at the 2019 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.
YKK was an exhibitor at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Denver, Colorado. Watch to learn about some of the products featured during the expo. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLekX7xz1R5r5UdFTB04SoPhTjS-d0zJ1j
