Pedaling towards a more sustainable future

In recent years, a significant cultural and eco-fueled shift has
emerged that is reimagining the way we view, interact, and move within
the world around us. As we approach incoming seasons through a more
urgent emphasis on sustainability, a focus on intentional design has
presented activewear brands an opportunity to rethink
classic silhouettes while prioritizing multi-functionality and
circular innovation. One-dimensional and eco-obtuse activewear designs
have begun to lose strength, with consumers leaning towards garments
and accessories that provide hyper-versatile constructions and
integrated details that seem to anticipate the unexpected. A rise in
anxious times propels an emotional connection with pieces that offer a
sense of on-the-go adaptability—allowing for more conscious purchases
that exceed a reason or season. With climate concerns creating an
uptick in #bikecore culture, the spotlight is placed on designs that
celebrate the modern cyclist while supporting an active-flexibility
from street to studio—and everywhere in between.

Cycling has always been popular, but in the past decade we have noted
a massive influx in the amount of individuals choosing bikes as their
preferred mode of transportation. A large number of reasons account
for this pedal-powered surge, such as a rise of environmental concerns
and more health-conscious lifestyles—with consumers considering new
ways of commuting that are beneficial for both the planet as well as
the rider. With a growing presence during fashion weeks and recent
collaborations between cycling brands such as Super 73 X Daily Paper,
Shrimps X Rapha, and Cowboy X ba&sh—it is
clear that the fashion industry has noted an uptick in cycling culture
while redefining two-wheeled transportation as a means of stylish
self-expression. This increased popularity in #bikecore style has also
propelled a demand for activewear that seamlessly blends form and
function. Cyclists look towards clothing that allows for full freedom
of movement as well as protection from surrounding environments and
unexpected changes along the route. Designers across the activewear
market and beyond are responding to these unique demands by creating
innovative hybrid designs that are highly versatile yet ultra stylish.

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An emergence of performance-minded collections that blend fashion and
function give way to a universal need for designs that offer a bigger
purpose. The freedom to move has become an inspiration catalyst for
womenswear-rooted, yet activewear-fueled designer Johanna Parv’s
collections, as her namesake brand experiments with elegant
silhouettes that are made for mobility. By placing the urban woman
cyclist at the forefront of the design process, Parv’s designs elevate
everyday garments through transformable constructions and mindful
adaptability. Thoughtful details such as integrated ponytail holes,
ergonomic cuts, and multi-use straps reimagine all-day clothing with
an active twist—allowing consumers the ability to move with support
and ease.

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Another example of #bikecore inspiration comes from a collaboration
between bike-sharing company Lime and sustainable designer Lydia
Bolton, who showcased commuter-focused garments created entirely from
upcycled materials. The collection, aptly named “Re-Cycle”, was
motivated by a recent survey which revealed that nine out of ten
people avoid riding bikes due to concerns over their attire, and over
half expressed desire for more high-fashion, bike-friendly clothing.
Crafted out of repurposed materials such as waterproof coats, quilted
puffers, discarded tents, and vintage jerseys—the garments were
created with a full-circle approach. These unisex and seasonless
designs feature shapeshifting styles that move from short to long,
including detachable customizations and clothing clips that secure a
snag-free fit while riding. Designers such as Parv and Bolton are
following the success from a gorpcore
boom—ushering in a new era of performance design that elevates
everyday pieces with a heightened sense of purpose.

Active footwear has also seen a cyclist-inspired response, as a focus
on hybrid designs has prompted an influx of innovative silhouettes
that consider diverse terrains and activities. Earlier this year,
Salomon and Pas Normal Studios released an updated version of a
classic design—offering a preview to what is possible when it comes to
creating for the next-generation of hybrid lifestyles. The durable
design features a lightweight sneaker and inner quick speed lacing
system, with a water-repellant gaiter that provides thoughtful
insulation as well as protection against the elements for a
mountain-to-street-to-cafe approach. Even the TikTok-favorite Samba
has taken on a bike-ready overhaul, with a recent drop from Adidas of
their Velosamba Cold.Rdy sneakers. The shoes are specially designed
for cold-weather commuting, while highlighting a move towards
sustainability through vegan-friendly styles and construction
techniques that utilize 50 percent recycled materials. With
cyclist-minded details such as integrated cleat mounts on the sole and
highly reflective accents for a safer ride, the hybrid sneakers find a
place amongst social feeds and bike pedals with ease.

As the consumer desire continues to underline a need for products that
can adapt in any situation, designers look to respond through
silhouettes that offer more thoughtful intention. This fast-rising
connection between cyclist-ready constructions and innovative
circularity methods has set in motion a new wave of design that
celebrates a universal freedom to move throughout any unexpected
climate or environment.