Corepics VOF / Shutterstock.com Show Some Spirit Get in the game with fan apparel or sports-themed gear that taps into the popularity of comfortable and functional athleisure wear. By Rachel Zoch ATHLEISURE IS TAKING OVER, according to Vogue, from everyday style to high-fashion runways, with baseball caps, track suits and yoga pants gracing sidewalks and catwalks alike. Sportswear, whether for athletes or fans, has always been a staple in promo, and the popularity of performance gear that can go from the office to the gym keeps growing. Whether it’s for uniforms, a sports team merch program or corporate apparel, comfort, functionality and style are paramount. Quarter-zip pullovers are one of the most popular athleisure style items, requested for both sports team or fan gear and corporate branded apparel programs, says Lycia Ellis, MAS, national account executive with Massachusetts-based Walker-Clay, the No. 91 distributor in the 2024 PPAI 100. “These items not only display team loyalty but also offer comfort and versatility, making them ideal for both game days and everyday wear,” she adds. Although heavier tees are trending, Ellis says heavy hooded sweatshirts seem to have lost their appeal. “I’ve noticed a significant decline in requests for them,” she says. “Clients seem to be favoring alternatives like crewnecks, quarter zips or lighter weight hooded sweatshirts, which offer more versatility, can be worn more frequently and are less bulky.” A soccer fan herself, Ellis says she hasn’t done a European-style supporter scarf yet but hopes they catch on on this side of the pond. “Whenever I can, I like to show them off because they’re such a fun way to commemorate memorable events and games,” she says. Jacquelyn Bachner, product marketing specialist for Illinois-based S&S Activewear, the No. 5 supplier in the 2024 PPAI 100, says the most requested apparel pieces for sportsthemed projects are T-shirts, hoodies, joggers and headwear. Think beyond the standard left chest, full front chest or full back decoration for more impact, she suggests. “I personally love a decoration that goes down the sleeve,” Bachner says. “It’s unique but eye-catching.” Options abound in promo when it comes to fan gear and sports-inspired apparel. Here’s a sampling of pieces that offer stylish silhouettes, recycled fabrics and performance features like moisture wicking for high perceived value. 16 • JUNE 2024 • PPAI Essentials | In Style
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