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Touchline issue 23 | April 2016 | 25
washing? etc. Or does it just come with a popular brand
name and minimal performance benefits?
3.
Actual garment construction. How is it stitched? where are
the stitching lines? Is the stitching durable? Is the stitching
flat so that it is not irritating? Does the stitching support the
overall garment purpose?
The array of options is significant and growing, and various
brands make some incredible claims, much of it not
supported by real scientific evidence. There is a growing
body of evidence scientifically, and anecdotally, that well-
constructed performance compression garments can
contribute to performance and recovery, in significant ways.
Linebreak Managing Director, Wilf Robinson states that
their locally designed and developed brand, settled on
their fabric, and manufacturer, based on that information
gathered over 15 years of punishing trials.
“We have spent a long time working with a vast array of athletes
across the spectrum of sports, and demographics. What we
have learnt is that no matter what the sports endeavour,
committed athletes want trusted brand partners. They want to
know that when they need that product to perform it will. It
is unlikely to be something they would wear out for a social
engagement, but it will be something they will be very proud
of when it comes to training and performance time. In this
space, imposters get found out quickly, as in all types of
sports. We are very fortunate to have found a combination
of design, fabrics and superior manufacturing to allow
us to actively pursue those who want and need those
performance products.” We might be less well-known but
it’s no accident that we supply several NRL, A-League and
other elite sports men and woman both in Australia and
internationally. They demand the best and won’t put up
with inferior performance.”
Of course, there are other better known brands.
Indeed global brands who offer great training and
recovery products, but what the central question
should be, is what is the primary function of the
garment? If it is to provide a thermal layer, then
you range of options is enormous, from basic
polypropylene products that you can pick up from
$10, to higher end fabrics and designs over $100.
If it is actually to provide some level of soft tissue
protection and recovery benefit (with the added benefit
of a thermal layer, moisture management, UV protection
etc) then you should look a little harder. There are very
few quality brands specialising in this category.”
Like any category, marketing dollars spent doesn’t not
necessarily equate to product quality or match with your
own product needs. If you are considering a personal
purchase or outfitting your team, I would highly recommend
product trialling of your own. Find some people in your
organisation that you trust to give you detailed and objective
feedback, and get the suppliers to provide a few samples.
Let your product testers trial the product for decent period
of time to test in different circumstances, after product
washing and multiple uses to see if the garment performs in
all those areas. You might find that the most expensive is not
necessarily the best match for you.
David Lamb, amateur triathlete and convert from
Active Wear to Compression garments.
CEO Sportscover Australia