What is a Sportswear?
Introduction
Sportswear is clothing designed for physical activity, prioritizing function, comfort, and performance. It includes items like moisture-wicking shirts, breathable shorts, and supportive footwear engineered to enhance movement and manage the body’s condition during exercise. The term also encompasses the broader category of casual clothes inspired by athletic styles, a trend heavily influenced by the rise of American Sportswear as a fashion movement.

From the Field to the High Street
Historically, sportswear was strictly functional, worn only for specific sports. However, the 20th century saw a significant shift. The concept of American Sportswear — pioneered by designers who championed relaxed, separates-based clothing — helped blur the lines between athletic attire and everyday fashion. This made comfortable, practical clothing socially acceptable for daily life, paving the way for the modern athleisure trend where performancewear is worn in casual settings.
Key Characteristics of Modern Sportswear
Performance sportswear is defined by several key features:
- Technical Fabrics: Materials like polyester, spandex, and nylon are used for their ability to wick moisture, dry quickly, and provide stretch.
- Enhanced Mobility: Designs incorporate features like gussets, articulated knees, and four-way stretch to allow for a full range of motion.
- Comfort and Fit: Ergonomically designed for a close but non-restrictive fit, often with flatlock seams to prevent chafing.
- Temperature Regulation: Breathable meshes and insulating layers help maintain a stable body temperature.
The Athleisure Revolution
Today, sportswear has evolved into “athleisure.” This trend emphasizes clothing that is suitable for both a workout and everyday activities like running errands or meeting friends. The focus is on a stylish, streamlined aesthetic that doesn’t sacrifice the technical benefits of performance apparel, a direct descendant of the versatile principles of American Sportswear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between sportswear and activewear?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but activewear typically refers specifically to clothing for sports, while sportswear can include casual apparel inspired by athletic styles.
Can I wear sportswear for everyday use?
Absolutely. The athleisure trend is built around the idea of wearing high-quality, comfortable sportswear as everyday fashion.
What are the most important factors when choosing sportswear?
Consider the activity, the fabric’s technical properties (moisture-wicking, breathability), and the fit to ensure comfort and performance.
For more on the history and influence of this style, you can explore the concept of American Sportswear.