Why Neon Colors Dominate Sport Uniforms and Inspire Fashion

Once primarily used for safety reasons in activities such as running and biking, neon clothing has exploded onto the market this year in a virtual cross section of sports. From college playoff football jerseys to hockey uniforms to tennis outfits—and even athletic shoes and equipment—the increasing number of athletes sporting this bold style has been as striking as the clothing itself. Whether or not neon sports clothing is around to stay for the long haul is up for debate, but production has certainly been hot in 2015.

What’s the Attraction?

 Simply put, neon gets noticed. It is eye popping and attracts attention immediately. As such, it serves as a natural marketing tool to highlight brands, teams and individuals. Companies and franchises have certainly taken advantage of this factor this year as exemplified by recent uniforms worn in the NFL and NCAA football playoffs, among other high-profile events. Moreover, today’s advanced fabric and dye technologies have produced brighter and more varied hues, which maintain the dramatic features of this color spectrum yet soften the dizzying effect on the eyes.

Young, Fluorescent, & Fashionable

Sports clothing is generally marketed to the twenty-something set, and recent market research has shown that the younger generation prefers neon clothing. The phenomenon is certainly trending right now among young people, which is why this style has proliferated exponentially. Neon elements have even made their way into sporty and formal high-end clothing manufactured by major designers. Whether used as an accent on a particular garment or for the entire outfit itself, neon’s popularity right now in the fashion world is undeniable.

Will it Fade Away?

Opinions are mixed among the fashion savvy as to whether neon clothing is merely a trend or whether it is here to stay. Neon clothing, although not necessarily mainstream sports clothing, was popular in the 1980s when aerobics and Jazzercise were at their height. Like these fitness classes, neon clothing waned in popularity, and its use was relegated back to safety garb. Marketing experts know all too well that the public is fickle and that trends are inherently hard to predict, but it seems like this trend may be here to stay!

Images Courtesy of Canva.