Sports Uniforms Enhance Performance
Can the design of an athletic uniform and the fabric that it is constructed of actually affect an athlete’s performance? I don’t think that there is any doubt anymore that the answer to that question is yes; maybe in subtle ways but still yes.
The first and most obvious aspect of a uniform is the material that it is made of. Today, lightweight, comfortable and breathable fabrics are in. Heavier weight, bulky and uncomfortable materials are out. This is particularly true in many of the “secondary” sports but is even gradually taking place in “mainstream” sports like football and baseball. Even the “old school” coaches in those sports are realizing that athletes can perform better when they
are dry, comfortable and not weighed down.
Sublimated Athletic Uniforms
To keep the uniform light and comfortable we need the lettering and/or numbering to be that way as well. How can we possibly decorate a uniform, keep the graphics lightweight but make sure that it stays on the uniform without cracking or peeling? The answer to that question, in many cases, is now sublimation.
With sublimation, we can now dye all lettering, logos and numbers directly into the fabric while we are dyeing the fabric itself. The graphics are actually a part of the material and cannot come off. It’s a relatively new technology but it’s perfect for these new lightweight fabrics.
Durable, Comfortable Sports Uniforms
Do we have to sacrifice durability for comfort with these new uniforms? Not necessarily. In most sports, there is a considerable amount of stretch built in to these new fabrics and this saves a lot of wear and tear on the seams. Of course with contact sports like football you need to be careful but we can even sublimate most of the mesh and dazzle fabrics that we’ve always used and still keep the uniform weight down. The fact of the matter is that you no longer need a heavy uniform for it to be durable.
The Psychological Effect of Athletic Uniforms
Lastly, and this may seem trite, but many people perform better when they look good. This applies to all walks of life; not just sports. These new sublimated uniforms can be designed to be graphically stunning and there can sometimes be a certain intimidation factor involved when playing a team, in any sport, that is outfitted just right. I personally have been on both sides of this situation and know how true this can be.
I’m not saying that the uniforms that a team wears can or will affect the outcome of a game but I don’t think there’s any doubt any more that comfortable, lightweight uniforms can at least marginally improve each individual athlete’s performance.
