Comfortable is the New Black

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR ~ JORDAN

There’s no doubt that technology has changed our lives dramatically over the past few decades, and that goes for our wardrobes as well — because the truth is, comfort never goes out of style. Many brands are taking advantage of new innovations in textiles and other components, resulting in clothes, shoes and undergarments that have more unique capabilities than ever before. From sweat-wicking fabrics to memory foam footbeds, high-tech apparel and footwear are designed to make your life easier.

When your priority is practicality, you’ll definitely want to consider these kinds of pieces. The best part? You don’t have to compromise on style to achieve maximum comfort. Here are some of the most innovative styles on the shelves.

Shoes

Real talk: Heels aren’t exactly the comfiest kind of shoe you can slip on. In fact, when you do sport them, you’re often counting down the hours till you can slip them off. Luckily, certain designers have made it their mission to make pumps that your feet are able to tolerate for longer periods of time.

MarionParke, a line created by a podiatric surgeon, features a bevy of stunning sandals, booties, mules and stilettos with heels that are surprisingly comfortable. The secret? A patent-padding insole with medical-grade foam that was previously only used for orthotics.

Most footwear brands incorporate a runner insole, and this foal alternative actually molds to flawlessly fit your foot over time. The shape of the insole is even sculpted to mimic the natural curvature of your arch, with ample support built into each and every style. Moreover, the insole is designed in such a way that your weight is distributed more evenly, as opposed to on the ball of the foot, as it is with most pumps.

A slightly cupped heel ensures the foot stays centered as well. From pointy ankle strap suede pumps with grommet detailing to patent block heel sandals, this line has a chic, comfy design for everyone.

Naturally, it’s imperative to also have sneakers that are comfortable. Since you’re putting a lot of impact on your foot when you exercise, a comfortable sneaker can not only improve your performance but also prevent an injury.

Adidas changed the game with its Boost technology, a revolutionary responsive cushioning system designed to give runners a long-lasting energy return. What differentiates Boost from other sneaker cushioning is mainly what it’s made of — Infinergy, a material made of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane. Adidas Boost running shoes were even given the Red Dot Award, one of the world’s most prestigious design recognitions.

Bras

For many reasons, it’s especially crucial to have a well-fitting, comfortablebra. After all, this undergarment lies directly against your body while also providing the base for all your favorite tops and dresses. Not only is the Glamorise Front-Close Comfort Bra made with super soft fabric and stretch construction, but it features self-adjusting cups that mold to your body for a perfect fit.

Whether you’re sporting this bra to leisurely run errands, lounge around the house or even to sleep in, it’s one you’re bound to forget you’re even wearing. Did we mention extra wide straps that keep your shoulders at ease all day long?

For women struggling with back discomfort or pain, a special posture bra with the right innovative features can offer significant relief. For example, a posture bra with a patented MagicLift design that crosses under and over your bust provides offers better lift, definition and support. Another incredibly comfy option is a postureback support bra with ComfortLift — even though the design is wire-free, it provides supreme support for both your back and bust.

Fitness apparel

When you’re working up a sweat, it’s obviously ideal to have apparel that can keep you cool and dry — and fortunately, the latest innovations in fitness clothing can do just that. Compression garments, which span everything from arm sleeves to tank tops, fit snugly, putting pressure on blood vessels to boost circulation, which then wards off muscle soreness. Moisture-wicking technology includes microfibers that lift perspiration away from the skin toward the surface of the fabric, where it then evaporates into the air.

Concerned about smelling fresh while you're getting fit? Anti-microbial tech hinders the growth of odor-causing bacteria in everything from your sports bras to your leggings and socks, thus helping them stay clean-smelling. On the other hand, if your top priority is breathability, you'll want to look for garments with innovative ventilation via mesh inserts or specialized stitching that maximizes airflow.

Under Armour is one renowned brand that has a wide range of technologies incorporated into its apparel. These features can be helpful for exercising in both coldand hot climates. ColdGear Infrared lining has a thermo-conductive coating to absorb and retain body heat, while the ColdGear reactor is an adaptive fabric that maintains the ideal level of warmth.

Under Armour’s charged wool has natural anti-microbial properties, and the UA Recharge strategically applies the perfect amount of compression against your muscles. The result? Less swelling and a much faster recovery.

During the summer, you’ll be grateful for Coolswitch technology, which boasts an exclusive coating on the inside of the fabric that pulls heat away from your skin. Heatgear, the company’s original innovation, is an ultra-breathable sweat-wicking fabric that regulates body temperature so you feel both cooler and drier while you work out.

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