Sensors incorporated into garments allow biometric data to be captured and applied in a variety of solutions that are providing functionality to the fashion industry. 

The future of fashion goes far beyond aesthetics: functionality is the main protagonist of the smart or connected clothing that is coming, that is garments that have electronic components and sensors integrated into the fabrics and/or fabrics that send information via Bluetooth to apps installed on smartphones.

These components are usually powered by batteries or a small generator that converts body heat into electricity. However, the core of all this innovation lies in which sensors can be used to track a variety of human body data, analyze it and deploy a huge range of possible applications from its detection. 

The growing demand for smart clothing creates growth opportunities for the entire market. Data is captured in real time and sent to apps providing information on a variety of sports metrics, including intensity and recovery, calories burned, fatigue level and sleep quality, among other factors.

For example, it is interesting the case of Nadi X Yoga Pants They can detect when the yoga posture needs to be improved: using haptic feedback the smart pants create small vibrations in the part of the body that needs to be adjusted as a warning to the user. At the same time, the app offers instructions on how to optimize each pose among other instructions to improve practice.

Socks are another area where data is key. Sensory Fitness uses advanced textile sensors built into each sock, plus a device that fits on the bottom of your foot to provide precise data on how your foot lands while walking or running. The connected app provides tips to improve walking and running technique, and tracks steps, speed, altitude and distance traveled.

For their part, Siren's smart socks, officially called Siren's Diabetic Socks and Foot Monitoring System, use small sensors placed along the fabric of the socks to measure foot temperature at six different points and send all the information to the app. These data can early detect ulcerations that often result in amputations.

Designed and manufactured in France, swimsuits from Nevian They have an integrated UV sensor. The sensor is about half the size of an adult's thumb, is waterproof, and connects to the user's iOS or Android device. Sends alerts when UV levels are high to remind you to apply more sunscreen.

The opportunities that connected clothing opens up are endless and in their infancy and can be used from the sports and fitness industry to health.. HE projects that the smart clothing market will reach USD 5.3 billion by 2024, driven by the growing demand for monitoring body activities through sensors, the massive adoption of sports and fitness/health applications, but mainly the evolution, consolidation and growth of all technologies that allow intelligent data collection and monitoring, in order to adapt to people's needs.

Julio Cesar Blanco – April 19, 2023