Performance apparel represents one of the fastest growing sectors of the international textile and clothing industry. Market growth is being fuelled by the emergence of new fibres, new fabrics and innovative process technologies.

The market is also being boosted by changes in consumer lifestyles. People are living longer and spending more time on leisure activities. New high-tech fabrics are being developed for a wide range of active sports such as aerobics, athletics, running, cycling, hiking, mountaineering, swimming, sailing, windsurfing, ballooning, parachuting, snowboarding, and ski-ing.

Exciting innovations are emerging in fire retardant materials and those which protect against extreme temperatures. Added to that is the growing market for corporatewear
which, in some cases, is becoming increasingly fashion-oriented.

And, increasingly, high-tech fabrics and apparel designed for high performance wear are crossing over the boundary into everyday fashion.