10132588Designing a high-impact, cotton sports bra with superior support performance, whilst bringing manufacturing to the UK.ClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKMAAREE is embarking on an exciting project to innovate within the field of sportswear design by developing the world's first high-support, cotton sports bra with superior support. This groundbreaking project aims to create a high-performance sports bra that utilises natural, sustainable materials without compromising on support or functionality. Traditionally, high-impact sports bras are made from synthetic fabrics such as polyester, which offer the necessary support but are less environmentally friendly. Our project seeks to challenge this norm by designing a sports bra using cotton, a natural and biodegradable material, while maintaining the high support standards that athletes and active women require. This project also underscores our commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly fashion. To achieve this, we will be exploring leveraging our proprietary Overband(r) Technology, which significantly enhances sports bra performance by reducing upward breast motion, and researching new design techniques and manufacturing capabilities to offer a high-supporting cotton garment. Our goal is to adapt and evolve this technology to work effectively with cotton, ensuring that the new sports bra provides superior support and comfort. This innovative approach to sportswear design will involve extensive research and development, multiple iterations of prototyping, and rigorous testing to ensure the final product meets our high standards. Furthermore, we are proud to announce that we will be relocating our manufacturing from China to the UK, specifically partnering with clothing factories in Wales. These factories have a rich history and expertise in producing high-quality cotton apparel. This move will not only support local industry and reduce our carbon footprint but also enhance our R&D processes by enabling closer communication and faster iteration cycles between our design and production teams. The anticipated benefits of this project are multifaceted. By creating a high-support, sustainable sports bra, we aim to meet the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly sportswear. Additionally, by bringing manufacturing back to the UK, we will support local jobs and industries, contributing to the economy and fostering a closer connection between design and production for this and future projects. MAAREE's project is poised to set a new standard in the sportswear industry, combining cutting-edge design with sustainability and local manufacturing. We are excited to lead the way in designing and creating innovative sportswear that not only performs exceptionally but also cares for the environment. This project represents a significant step forward in our mission to support women in achieving their fitness goals with confidence and style.