TEXTIMOOV ! : SURPRISING TEXTILES, FASHION, ART, SPORT & MOVE

High-performance sports, a major player in the evolution of textiles, serve as real test beds for new materials. Bio-based fibers are being increasingly used in equipment to enhance athletes’ performance and comfort. These fibers offer a multitude of benefits such as breathability, waterproofing, thermal insulation, elasticity, and fluidity. With advancements in textile technology, these fibers are becoming even more advanced and seem to be straight out of a science fiction novel. Through techniques such as coating, priming, and micro-encapsulation, fibers are now interactive and intelligent. They can adapt to environmental conditions and possess antibacterial, thermoregulatory, hydrophilic, and even therapeutic properties.

Sportswear has become a fashion phenomenon, allowing for the integration of sportswear into daily wardrobes. This “textile revolution” is transforming how humans interact with their environment through the exchange of vital information. Upcycling and recycling are also becoming increasingly popular trends in the textile industry, with collaborations between major designers and sports brands showcasing the fusion and democratisation of streetwear and sportswear.

In addition to earth-bound uses, textiles also play a crucial role in space exploration. Materials such as those found in satellites and rockets are vital for the success of space missions. A chapter dedicated to exploring the use of textiles in space will further illustrate the endless possibilities and applications of these versatile new fibers and materials.