Impressions - March 2025 - 20

The Fleecing of a Category
With a shift in fabric weights during the last several years, fleece and tees are trending to
heavier-weight fabrics. Consumers are searching for the most value for their purchases, and
many see heavier-weight apparel products as being a more durable, higher end option in the
market. This could be what's driving some of the weight shift in the fabric.
" The Hanes Ultimate Cotton fleece collection really hits the mark as a premium heavyweight
fleece, because it's a 90-percent cotton and 10-percent polyester blend with a 10-ounce
fabric weight, " says Marcus Davis, manager of products. " The hoodie style F170 is perfect for
layering and comes in many trending colors. The new Beefy Retro Tee style 5180R is another
example of a heavier weight option. With its bold colors and oversized fit, this tee really
captures the streetwear vibe and is perfect for any season. It's a 7-ounce fabric crafted
with ring spun cotton, making it incredibly soft yet durable. "
Similarly, Laurel Hudson with Allmade Apparel, says that, while the layered look is everevolving,
especially in cold-weather months, fleece will always be in the mix. Fleecewear
remains extraordinarily popular and is worn year-round, due to the variances in fabric
weights. For instance, sweatshirts can be lighter, while T-shirts can be heavier, depending
on the lifestyle of the consumer.
To be sure, heavyweight fleece is having its moment, so warm or cold weather is not truly a
determinant for this fabric in the athleisure category.
at the same time. Pieces that look high-end
and also balance performance are going to be
a huge hit in 2025. "
Major Drivers
Interestingly, while athleisurewear appeals to
all age groups, it does so for diff erent reasons,
says Davis. " Boomers are becoming more active
as they enter retirement and the later stages of
their lives, " he says. " Th ey are investing in their
current and future health through preventative
care, so comfort is important when choosing
the clothes they will be active in. Th ese could
be lightweight sweats for taking brisk walks or
a tri-blend tee to wear to the gym. "
By contrast, while Boomers may have health
and wellness in mind, Gen-Zers and Millennials
tend to focus more on popular trends and
styles. However, they will not give up comfort
and versatility to get the looks they want.
And though these groups took athleisure to
new levels with oversized sweatsuits in 2024,
these loose fi ts will give way to a more tailored
look in 2025.
Looking ahead, athleisure will continue to
evolve and change with the products and styles
being introduced into this space, says Davis.
" Consumers are always looking for updated
silhouettes, fabrics and colors to refresh their
wardrobe, but it's all going to come down to the
value they see in their purchase, " he explains.
" As long as it's off ering a benefi t to the consumer,
such as the comfort and versatility they
get in the usage occasions, they will continue
to look for these pieces. "
P.20
ImpressionsMagazine.com March 2025
Lane Seven's fl eece collection is the ultimate in
athleisure. Photo courtesy of Lane Seven

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Impressions - March 2025

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