ABSTRACT
Fibres have a wavy undulating structure and contribute many characteristics to the fabrics that are significant for the performance of functional clothing and sportswear. Sportswear depicts a multitude of attributes; for instance, it provides functional support, enhances performance, protects athlete from strain/injury, promotes sporting activity, communicates fashion and style and, more importantly, offers the wearer comfort. The most vital factor that fibres/filaments contribute toward wearer comfort is moisture and thermal balance leading to a suitable microclimate next to the skin. O’Mahony and Braddock (2002) highlighted that in the UK, ‘sportswear’ often refers to active, performance clothing designed and manufactured for sports-related activities. However, in the United States it includes casual leisure wear. In this chapter, sportswear refers to those garments intended for professional sports.
