Munich, Germany — Munich’s Messe München exhibition center is set to host the much-anticipated Performance Days on October 23rd and 24th, 2024. This key industry event will unveil innovative fabric technologies targeted for the Fall/Winter 2026 collections across diverse segments including performance wear, footwear, accessories, and, notably, bodywear for the very first time.
The event is distinguished by its commitment to advancing fabric technology, sustainability, and design. A revered panel including industry stalwarts and a new Bodywear Collective forum hint at the evolving landscape of performance materials. Experts have meticulously assessed the latest fabric submissions, focusing on innovative and eco-friendly solutions, before handing out coveted awards in various categories.
Over the years, Performance Days has significantly expanded its scope, incorporating more segments and broader material technologies that address both aesthetic and functional demands. The rigorous selection process by the jury ensures that only the most groundbreaking materials make the cut, highlighting the relentless pursuit of excellence and sustainability in fabric production.
This year, the jury, led by Performance Days CEO Marco Weichert and renowned designer and consultant Alexa Dehmel, celebrated the introduction of the dedicated forums for footwear and bodywear, significantly broadening the event’s impact on global textile trends. Reflecting on the submissions, the jury, which included textile giant Regina Goller and Stephan Prinz from Klopman, particularly emphasized the innovative approaches towards sustainability that characterized the winning fabrics.
In a firm nod to environmental responsibility combined with innovative design, three awards were distributed for outstanding fabric innovations. The Eco Performance Award was claimed by A. Sampaio & Filhos – Têxteis SA for their fabric “69222 – Colorful Chemistry Featuring Holistic Farming.” This fabric represents a significant leap forward in sustainable fabric technologies using organic cotton and natural dyes derived from microorganisms, a process that promises lower environmental impacts compared to traditional methods.
Furthermore, Tamurakoma & Co., Ltd. took home a Performance Award for their fabric KT0582, utilized in the Pants & Tights category. This component is lauded for its seamless integration of recycled materials and innovative manufacturing techniques that facilitate targeted compression and flexibility through digitally controlled polyester melting processes.
Another Performance Award was presented to Penn Textile Solutions GmbH/Penn Italia Srl for their fabric article 13949, an innovative blend suitable for base layers. The fabric uses recycled fibers and introduces unique texturing methods that combine comfort with customizability, featuring open structures and a 3D effect that adds aesthetic value.
In addition to showcasing innovative materials, Performance Days serves as a platform for industry professionals to collaborate and share expertise. The introduction of the Bodywear Collective, alongside forums dedicated to other segments, reflects a holistic approach to the performance fabric market, addressing everything from footwear to specialist athletic wear.
As the fabric industry continues to shift towards sustainable and innovative solutions, events like Performance Days not only highlight current achievements but also steer the direction for future developments. With growing attention on eco-friendly practices and technological advancements, the fabric industry’s landscape is set to evolve dramatically, promising exciting opportunities and challenges ahead.
Performance Days remains pivotal in setting benchmarks and fostering dialogue among industry leaders, thus shaping the future of fabric technologies globally. As the event expands, it will continue to inspire and dictate trends that will inevitably influence the market on both a macro and micro scale.