Polo Ralph Lauren unveil latest ‘wearable tech’
Words: Holly
Wearable technology isn’t exactly lauded for its style credentials, but since DVF sent models down the runway in Google Glass, it’s looking like more and more designers will be getting in on the act. It wasn’t a complete surprise then, when Ralph Lauren unveiled their ‘Polo Tech’ shirt at the US Open last week.
The idea that ‘knowledge is power’ drove the creation process, and the shirt is designed to measure the whole body in terms of strength, speed and power, sending biometric data in real time directly to a smart phone or tablet. This should, in theory, allow the wearer to take said knowledge in order to improve their own performance. Featuring sensors knitted into the core of the product to read biological and physiological information, surely this is the most stylish addition to the wearable tech bandwagon?
Beyond elite athletes, however, David Lauren also sees a place for the Polo Tech shirt in everyday life. “Our vision is that this will transcend sports to help us at every age and in every aspect of life. Reaching far beyond just the needs of elite athletes, Polo Tech will offer innovative technology for all ages and lifestyles to promote general wellness and quality of life.”
Developed with proprietary technology from Canadian-based OMsignal, whose team includes experts in neuroscience, sports medicine and engineering, the OM platform within the shirt delivers a wide variety of physiological data through seamless apparel directly to the users via an app on their smartphone or tablet.
“It was clear from our very first meeting that Ralph Lauren had clarity of mind about the future of fashion tech,” said Stéphane Marceau, CEO of OMsignal. “Its legendary Polo brand, and unparalleled design and merchandising capabilities make Ralph Lauren a natural partner to bring smart clothing technology into everyday lives.”
Unsurprisingly, the polo shirt doesn’t look too bad either, in a sleek black with a signature yellow Polo Player logo, and it’s a significant step towards the much-anticipated rolling out of ‘fashion tech’ in the near future.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
Further reading
This is the one piece of luggage every modern professional should own
From vision to masterpiece: Charting the personalised journey of a bespoke Swaine creation
