This is the age of revolution in fashion. From sportswear to shapewear, every pattern, every design, and every product is undergoing a cultural revolution. Acceptance of every type of body figure and increased interest in fitness might seem mutually exclusive concepts, but they converge on demand for compression wear and shapewear.
Over the years, compression clothing has targeted sports enthusiasts but now, the apparel has gained the attention of any fitness enthusiast. Despite the slow evolution of shapewear, they no longer represent apparel to hide insecurities or alter body type entire but offer a smooth shape to the user’s silhouette. They are now used to enhance the figure and feel like a part of the skin.
According to Allied Market Research, the global compression wear and shapewear market is expected to reach $6.95 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2021 to 2030. Change in lifestyle, surge in demand from the geriatric population, advancements in fabrics & garment design, and increase in disposable income of customers have boosted the market growth.
Development of compression wears over the years
While compression clothing started out in the healthcare sector, where they were used on patients whose blood pressure is low during surgeries or minor operations. Moreover, it was recommended for those who suffer from low blood flow. Then it was adapted for sports activities. There are various types of compression wear, each depends on the type of activity and profiles such as pre-activity, post-activity, and during the exercise.
Apart from the objective of regulating the blood flow of the athlete, compression wear is used to prevent injuries during or after exercise. They are linked to increasing the efficiency of the muscles while they are working. Gym enthusiasts who aim to take their exercise to a next level can benefit from compression shirts. Based on the fabric, it helps keep the upper part of the body muscles stable and warm during the workouts and reduces muscle weariness during intense sessions and strength workouts.
Technology has a lot of influence on the development of the latest compression wear. Companies have focused on incorporating technology that targets key muscle groups used in a particular sports activity without increasing the overall weight of the apparel or compromising the comfort of the use. Muscle containment stamping (MCS), this technology adds reflective options to improve the user’s safety in low-light conditions and offers advanced pocketing options to cater to the demands of a sports person. Understanding their need has become a major area to focus on while developing novel compression wear products.
Benefits of shapewear and reasons for its steadfast growth
Shapewear is used for contouring the body and making the outfit better. It has been regarded as a fashion accessory for years however as the times are changing, their use is not limited to fashion purposes.
Shapewear can be used as activewear. In fact, some studies indicate some types of shapewear can help in exercises and routine workouts. However, you must know which piece of shapewear can work at the gym.
From sports bras to tights, any type of shapewear is used to enhance comfort. If the piece of clothing looks better while exercising but uncomfortable while wearing, it can hamper your objective and lead to other muscle ailments. Several companies have launched shapewear with different compression levels. Customers can opt for shapewear that shapes or smooths different areas of their body according to the occasion. One can use shapewear for stationary work or for working out. However, keep in mind that while working out, you need to breathe heavily and the shapewear should not restrict that and increase fatigue. Otherwise, you may feel dizzy due to a lack of oxygen. Similarly, you should not opt for that shapewear that restricts your movement and certainly not for exercise purposes. Try a garment that fits you perfectly and offers the required shape to your body without restricting a wide range of movements.
Shapewear is available in different types of fabric. The thumb rule is, that if you want to purchase shapewear for exercise purposes, you need to invest in breathable fabric or fabric that wicks moisture away from the body. This way, you can stay comfortable and cooler ever after intense workout sessions.
The major benefit of shapewear is improving the outlook of your body. If you gained a few pounds or are in the processing of your health regimen, wearing shapewear can help lose weight without going to the gym. Shapewear is truly a blessing for the new mothers. After delivery, every mother focuses on increasing the baby’s weight while getting herself in shape. While breastfeeding and exercise can help in getting back in shape, shapewear is excellent in covering the post-baby belly swelling and helping them use their favorite clothing that they couldn’t use during pregnancy.
One of the most interesting benefits of shapewear is that it encourages recyclability. With the use of shapewear, one can use easily their old garments and do not need to spend a colossal amount of money on redoing wardrobe or increasing their purchasing budget. Shapewear help in improving mood as women often feel good about themselves by being able to wear their favorite outfits. Moreover, it supports and improves natural curves and is suitable for everyday use. What’s more, the use of shapewear is linked with improving confidence and self-esteem.
The elastic properties of shapewear help in improving posture and abdominal muscles. It reduces back pain, especially in the lower back and pelvic region. It benefits the sitting and walking position and minimizes tension in the back for those who need to sit for a long duration in the office. Post-pregnancy, shapewear can new mothers restore their abdominal muscles so that the internal organs can return to normal.
Both compression wear and shapewear have helped many during workouts and getting their body in shape. They not only improve self-confidence but helps in improving overall health while being practically invisible below the outfits. Moreover, the prolonged wear of such misfit clothing could reduce serious illnesses.
Author Bio
Swamini Kulkarni holds a bachelor’s degree in Instrumentation and control engineering from Pune University and works as a content writer at Allied Market Research. She is deeply fascinated by the impact of technology on human life and loves to talk about science and mythology. When she is not glued to the computer, she loves to read, travel and daydream about her areas of interest.
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