Athleisure is beginning to expand beyond simple stretch fabrics into more luxurious high-pile fabrics, such as velvet, velveteen and velour. Yoga pants are no longer considered the only athleisure garment. Athletic brands have picked up on the trend to add more velvet and velour yoga pants, track suits and lounge wear to their product lines. High-pile fabrics are defined by a three dimensional texture with very visible pile of fibers on the surface creating a soft, smooth texture. Modern high-pile fabrics also include sweat-wicking and breathability. And now, with the addition of sweat-wicking and breathability, they even have a place in modern consumers’ workout regimens. Unlike the thick and heavy velvets of previous generations, modern velvet is lightweight, stretchy and breathable, all the while maintaining its soft-brushed finish.

High-pile fabrics can be used on both outer and inner layers of clothing. The soft, cozy fabric makes an ideal inner lining to enhance comfort and warmth. While high-pile fabrics can be produced using weaving, warp knitting and weft knitting, weft knitting is the preferred method. As more customers are looking for clothes that are warm, comfortable, and moisture-wicking, the new generation of breathable and lightweight three-layer high-pile is bound to be a welcome addition to the athleisure market.