There have been several innovations in the active wear segment, especially in fabrics. Brands are using fabrics with innovative features such as moisture wicking properties and an ability to protect against UV radiation besides offering freedom of movement.

The knitted three-layer high pile can either be used as an inner lining or as a decorative accent on the outer face. The pile keeps pile fibers firmly in place without spending extra time and effort on lamination. This simplifies the production process besides lightening the fabric, making it ideal for athleisure applications. This helps manufacturers save time and money, without sacrificing quality. Also, each of these layers can use a different material type — for example, a soft cotton lining and a UV protective fabric shell — optimizing function and comfort for outdoor sport enthusiasts.

Intarsia fabrics retain their vibrant colors and patterns for much longer, since the design is knit into the fabric itself rather than just pasted on the top. As brands are looking for new ways to embed their logos into athletic gear — and designers remain on the lookout for techniques that can create a unique look — intarsia is likely to make a big impact in the 2019 athleisure market.