Athleisure, much like a masked horror movie villain, just won’t die. But it makes sense. If my own Instagram friend-feed is any indication, there is a focus on fitness and wellness that is undeniable, and it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere. Global Japanese retailer Uniqlo officially labeling its range of dry-fit, weightless apparel as Uniqlo Sport signals how the inclination towards this lifestyle is no longer just a trend, but a real way to live. With designers and influencers like Rihanna, Beyoncé, Riccardo Tisci, Olivier Rousteing and Charlotte Olympia dipping their toes into sportswear, we are offered fabulous, ostentatious and very expensive workout clothes that we’d rather wear outside the gym — you know, where people will actually see us.
Uniqlo’s venture into sportswear is very welcome and exactly what we need: a reliable source of workout basics that are affordable, durable and are made to move in.
For summer 2017, Uniqlo Sport collection has been expanded to cover a wider range of sports that help enhance athletic performance. Katsumi Kubota, CEO of Uniqlo Philippines, says, “Uniqlo takes pride in making comfortable clothes that improve the way Filipinos live, and this philosophy also applies to our active wear. This season, we are thrilled to showcase the latest Uniqlo Sport lineup, full of functional and stylish pieces.”
AIRism introduces the UV Cut Mesh T-Shirt, Yoga Cropped Pants, Dry Yoga Tunic, and Seamless Bra. All come with Dry and Cool Touch technology, moisture-wicking technology, and are designed for excellent mobility. AIRism is anti-microbial, anti-odor, and self-deodorizing. I put the Yoga Tunic to the test last weekend. It didn’t ride up with doing bends and inversions, sweat dries quickly and doesn’t interfere with your workout, and the fit is flattering.
For men, Uniqlo Sport offers AIRism Performance Support Tights, which stabilize pressure on the legs, and the Dry-Ex Polo Shirt, which dries sweat instantly. Unisex Performance Socks keep odor and moisture at bay, and provide ankle and toe support.
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Stock up on these basics, available at Uniqlo branches. For information, visit www.uniqlo.com.ph, facebook.com/uniqlo.ph, @uniqloph on Twitter, and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram.