Decathlon partners with Rheon Labs on next-gen sports apparel

Global sporting goods retailer Decathlon has announced a global partnership with British materials technology company Rheon Labs to bring advanced material science to apparel for “everyday sport”.

The collaboration will allow Decathlon access to Rheon Labs_ technology platform_ including current and future innovations in strain-rate sensitive materials_ to power next-gen sports apparel by enabling the development of apparel that enhances control_ comfort and performance during physical activity.

The result will be performance-driven apparel built to meet the needs of athletes_ as well as accessible to all_ explains Decathlon in a statement.

Aurelien Corbier_ textile innovation leader at Decathlon_ said: “Innovation truly matters when it empowers everyone. By partnering with Rheon Labs_ we're taking materials designed for athletes and making them accessible to all.

“This aligns perfectly with our focus on providing excellent products for everyone_ leading to better comfort_ control_ and performance.”

The first launch from the partnership will be a _Kiprun_ running tight_ slated for release in autumn/winter 2025. The running tights will be designed to focus energy and reduce muscle movement.

Decathlon adds that it is also working on innovations across other categories_ including with its fitness sports specialist Domyos_ with the first technologies expected to arrive in 2026.

London-based Rheon Labs is a collective of scientists_ engineers_ and designers focused on creating products that were previously thought impossible with conventional static materials. At the core of every product is its patented energy-absorbing super polymer_ Rheon_ which remains soft and flexible during everyday movement but stiffens dynamically in response to movement or impact. The innovation adapts to the body_s needs in real-time – improving comfort_ control_ and performance without sacrificing freedom of movement.

Stephen Bates_ chief executive at Rheon Labs_ added: “Decathlon_s belief that innovation should serve everyone aligns perfectly with our own. Rheon started in elite sport – now_ this partnership will unlock that same level of performance for millions more.”