Sportswear.
Sportswear refers to garments made from special fabrics that are very soft and adapt to any body structure. They can stretch to accommodate the movements required by athletes and even provide support. These garments are tailored to the specific needs that arise from practicing a particular sport.
The first sportswear.
Although clothing in general has accompanied humans throughout the millennia, sportswear did not. In fact, in Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, athletes used to compete naked because the body was considered “the greatest expression of beauty and physical perfection.”
Runners of the ancient Olympic Games painted on a 525 B.C. vase.
In pre-Columbian America, the ancient Mayans and Aztecs (1,200 B.C.) practiced "Pokolpok" and "Tlachtli," respectively. In both cases, it was a ball game deeply rooted in both cultures. Athletes in these sports wore special attire, possibly ritualistic, while playing these games. These ritual garments also represent the first sportswear in pre-Columbian America.
The gladiators, considered the athletes of ancient Rome, wore what could be considered the equivalent of "sportswear," which consisted of: a "campestra" (a kind of skirt around the hips), with officers wearing warrior tunics or dalmatics that reached mid-thigh, usually covering only one leg with archaic "greaves" made of leather. These outfits were also paired with a shield and sword. In this way, gladiators were less exposed as they used that "archaic sportswear" which allowed mobility for all the activities they typically performed.
Development of sportswear.
It wasn’t until the late 19th century and early 20th century that sports gained greater international prominence, which in turn boosted not only the development of the sports themselves but also the necessary attire for practicing them. The first modern Olympics in 1896 included many upper-class athletes who wore rudimentary clothing, similar to overalls or shorts and a t-shirt for field sports. Tennis required more formal attire, with the traditional "tennis whites." Women wore tennis dresses while men wore pants and shirts, sometimes even a jersey, as customary.
1920 and 1930
Some sports, like tennis, had strict dress code rules. At the beginning of the century, women played in dresses, high socks, and hats. Men would sometimes play wearing blazers.
In 1922, Suzanne Lenglen competed in Wimbledon wearing a short tennis skirt. She also wore a headband to keep her hair out of her face, instead of the customary hat. In 1932, Alice Marble wore tennis shorts. White shorts. This marked a significant change in the sport, as these new outfits provided more mobility and, most importantly, comfort, which soon spread to other athletes.
For professional athletes, clothing was often simple, as its main goal was to cover the athlete rather than assist them. For example, swimmers' swimsuits didn’t have very practical designs, especially for women. Female athletes were more limited by societal rules.
1940 and 1950
Scientific developments made new fabrics available to people. For example, nylon was first used by the military for their running shorts and windbreakers. These synthetic fibers allowed for the mass production of sportswear and also enabled the creation of garments designed for specific activities, such as hoods, pockets, removable linings, and wind-resistant gear. This way, sportswear made its way into the textile industry, focusing on designs that favored athletic practice more than the outdated traditional garments used in competitions.
1950 and 1960
In addition to the changes seen in fibers, these decades are marked by new styles and interests. There is a trend toward specializing clothing more. For example, wind-resistant clothing began to appear.
Sportswear was still somewhat limited to professional athletes. However, exercise programs began appearing on television, giving more freedom to work out at home. This was something that would appeal to the female audience.
The casual sportswear makes its appearance. Pants start to get shorter, both for men and women. For women, for example, they transitioned from wearing knee-length pants to shorts. The top remained more covered, with the shoulders protected. But, in general, the size of the sleeves was also shortened.
1970 and 1980
For women, this is a big step. In this decade, they started to choose more fitted sportswear. They showed more interest in staying fit without sacrificing femininity. They achieved this by wearing long leggings, usually in bright colors, leotards, and leg warmers.
At a professional level, for example, the difference was noticeable when seeing gymnasts in their tight outfits showing off their legs. Something unthinkable at the beginning of the century, when they had to wear loose dresses.
1990 and 2000
In this decade, more attention was paid to the technology of sportswear. The design and fabrics used provide greater comfort to athletes. In fitness, group exercises gained prominence over gym machines. Tracksuits were combined with crop tanks. Leggings and leotards remained popular during these years.
2000 and 2010
The new millennium awakened even more interest in exercise. More options to stay active started to appear, with some new disciplines, others old, or combinations of various activities. Those practicing them needed clothing that adjusted to each type of activity. The appearance of yoga pants was a highlight, which don't become transparent while doing these exercises.
2010 and beyond
Today, athletes, whether professionals or not, are very conscious of the importance of sportswear. In addition to seeking comfort, they want clothing that helps improve performance or at least doesn't hinder progress. When buying clothes, people look for breathability, moisture resistance, support, and other features. And it's not just about shirts or pants. Underwear has also gained more importance in this sense. At the same time athletes aim to improve performance, sportswear has also become a fashion trend. A clear example is women's sports shirts. Many of these can be worn casually. They are ideal for women who do everyday activities before heading to the gym. They won't need to rush to change because they're already ready for their workout.
The current state of sportswear
Since the early 2000s, sportswear by discipline has become more important. Specialized stores divide their inventory by sport, making it easier to find what each person is looking for. It is increasingly important to have the right clothing. Lightweight clothing that allows freedom of movement and flexibility is highly valued. Technology has allowed for the development of fibers that combat bad odor and evaporate sweat for greater comfort. Perhaps the most challenging part nowadays is choosing the right clothing from so many options. Each sport has its particularities, and depending on what will be practiced, one must choose the clothing that fits best.
The brands Beybies, Pura+, and NrgyBlast belong to Avimex de Colombia SAS. All products have quality certifications and valid health registrations, manufactured under the strictest international standards. To purchase our products, you can access our Shop-On Line. All purchases are backed by a 100% satisfaction or refund guarantee.
