Are you a fashion-conscious man who also values practicality and functionality? If so, you might want to check out the latest trend in the fashion world: techwear.
This style focuses on combining cutting-edge technology with streetwear fashion to create clothing that looks great and performs even better. Stay tuned to learn more about what techwear is, its key features, the evolution of the style, the top brands to watch, and essential pieces for your wardrobe.
Understanding Techwear: A Brief Overview
Before jumping into the latest styles in techwear, let’s take a closer look at what techwear is all about.
What is Techwear?
Techwear is all about combining urban street style with cutting-edge materials and technology to create clothing that looks great and functions at the highest level possible.
The trend is about protecting individuals from the elements and improving their performance. Techwear clothing is designed to be practical and functional, which is why it has become so popular in recent years.
The trend has been embraced by people who value functionality and practicality and those who want to look good while being protected from the elements. The clothing is designed to be both fashionable and practical, making it perfect for anyone who wants to stay comfortable and stylish no matter the weather.
Key Features of Techwear Clothing
The key features of techwear clothing are the use of high-tech materials, such as Gore-Tex, Cordura, and other waterproof and weather-resistant fabrics. These materials provide superior protection from the elements and ensure that you stay dry and comfortable in wet and chilly weather conditions.
In addition to the high-tech materials, most techwear clothing features a lot of pockets and compartments. These are incredibly useful for carrying all your essentials, such as your phone, wallet, and keys.
The pockets are designed to be functional and practical, making it easy to access your belongings when you need them.
Lastly, techwear clothing typically has a sleek and futuristic design that looks great and perfectly complements the functionality of the clothes.
The Evolution of Techwear
Techwear has come a long way since it first emerged in fashion. It started out as niche clothing for outdoor enthusiasts and technology geeks.
However, it has now gained mainstream attention and is considered a full-blown fashion trend. Today, techwear has evolved into a style that caters to anyone who values the functionality of their clothes and appreciates a sleek and futuristic look.
The trend has become popular with people who want to look good while being protected from the elements and those who value practicality and functionality in their clothing.
Top Techwear Brands to Watch
Now that you have a better understanding of what techwear is all about let’s look at some of the hottest brands pushing this style’s boundaries.
Acronym
Acronym is probably the most well-known techwear brand out there. This brand is all about incorporating avant-garde designs with high-tech materials to create stylish and functional clothing.
Some of their signature pieces include the J1A-GT jacket and P10-S pants, which are both incredibly popular amongst techwear enthusiasts.
Acronym’s founder, Errolson Hugh, is a master of designing aesthetically pleasing and highly functional garments. He has led the techwear movement for many years, and his designs continue to inspire and influence other brands in the industry.
One of the unique things about Acronym is that they often collaborate with other brands to produce limited edition pieces. For example, they have worked with Nike, Stone Island, and Burton to create some truly innovative clothes.
Nike ACG
Nike ACG is a sub-brand of Nike that focuses on creating clothing specifically designed for outdoor activities. Their products are designed to provide superior protection from the elements and ensure you stay comfortable no matter the weather conditions.
One thing that sets Nike ACG apart from other outdoor brands is its commitment to sustainability. They use recycled materials in many of their products and have made a pledge to become a zero-waste company by 2025.
Nike ACG also produces a range of footwear that is perfect for outdoor activities. Their shoes are designed to provide excellent grip and support, making them ideal for hiking, trail running, and other outdoor pursuits.
Stone Island Shadow Project
Stone Island Shadow Project is a collaboration between Stone Island and Acronym’s founder, Errolson Hugh. This joint venture has produced some of the most innovative techwear designs out there.
One of the things that make Stone Island Shadow Project stand out is its use of fabric dyeing techniques. This process involves dyeing the finished garment rather than the unsewn fabric. It results in a unique and unpredictable color effect unique for every garment.
Stone Island Shadow Project also has a strong focus on sustainability. They use recycled materials in many of their products and have implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives in their production process.
Guerrilla Group
Guerrilla Group is a Hong Kong-based brand that’s quickly gaining popularity amongst techwear enthusiasts. Their clothing is highly functional, incorporating a lot of pockets and compartments, and made of durable materials that will last you a long time.
If you’re looking for a more affordable techwear brand that doesn’t skimp on quality, Guerrilla Group is worth checking out.
One of the things that set Guerrilla Group apart is its commitment to ethical production practices. They use only sustainable materials and work with factories that provide their employees with fair wages and safe working conditions.
Guerrilla Group also has a strong focus on innovation. They are constantly experimenting with new materials and design techniques to create functional and stylish clothes.
Aitor Throup’s TheDSA
Aitor Throup’s TheDSA is a relatively new player in the techwear game, but it’s been making waves with its innovative designs. This brand incorporates a lot of unique design elements and high-tech materials to create clothing that’s both functional and stylish.
Aitor Throup is a designer who is known for his unconventional approach to fashion. He often incorporates elements of sculpture and anatomy into his designs, resulting in clothes that are both visually striking and highly functional.
TheDSA is committed to innovation. They are constantly experimenting with new materials and design techniques to create functional and stylish clothes.
Essential Techwear Pieces for Your Wardrobe
Now that you know what techwear is and which brands are pushing the boundaries of this style let’s see which essential techwear pieces you need to have.
Waterproof Jackets
A good waterproof jacket is an absolute must-have for any techwear enthusiast. Look for jackets that incorporate high-tech materials like Gore-Tex or eVent, which provide superior protection from the elements.
Additionally, make sure the jacket fits well and looks great, so you can wear it both in the great outdoors and on the streets.
Cargo Pants
Cargo pants are another essential piece of techwear clothing that you should consider adding to your wardrobe. Look for pants that are made of durable materials like Cordura, and that have plenty of pockets to carry all your essentials.
Additionally, you might want to consider getting pants with reinforced knees and seat for added durability.
Technical Sneakers
Technical sneakers, like Nike’s ACG React Terra Gobe or Adidas’ Terrex Free Hiker, are a great addition to any techwear wardrobe. These sneakers are designed to provide superior grip and stability on all types of terrain, making them perfect for outdoor activities.
They’re also designed to look great so that you can wear them with your techwear outfits on the streets.
Sling Bags and Backpacks
Sling bags and backpacks are essential for carrying all your items, whether out on an adventure or just commuting to work. Look for bags that are made of durable materials and have plenty of compartments for organizing your gear.
Additionally, consider getting bags with a waterproof coating to keep your items dry in case of rain.
Functional Accessories
Accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves can significantly affect how comfortable you are outdoors. Look for accessories made of high-tech materials that provide superior protection from the elements.
Additionally, consider getting accessories that complement your techwear outfits and look great on the streets.
Conclusion
Now that you know what techwear is all about and which brands and pieces you should be looking out for, it’s time to upgrade your wardrobe.
Techwear is all about combining style and functionality, so don’t be afraid to experiment and push the limits of what’s possible.
Michael (Mike) Davis is an experienced writer and freelance stylist specializing in men's grooming, skincare, hairstyles, and fashion.
With over 5 years of industry experience, he has a deep understanding of men's skin types, hair textures, and fashion preferences. Mike's passion for staying up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques is evident in his writing, which has been featured in popular publications.
He takes pride in providing practical advice to his clients and readers.