The wearable technology market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 16.2 per cent by 2022. Growth of wearable technologies is revolutionising the way people connect through smart devices, which will also greatly impact the fashion industry. Going forward, sophisticated sensors, heating elements – even battery chargers – will be added to fabrics using high-tech knitting machines for sport, leisure, the military, hospitals and emergency services. Such devices will be able to measure a person’s vital signs, such as heart rate, breathing, skin temperature – even perspiration levels.

Sensors used in wearable devices could have health benefits, such as rehabilitation for patients with physical impairments and functional disabilities, and injury prevention for people at risk.

Advances in technology, including muscle and motion sensors, mean that wearable devices will be able to provide increasingly useful data to accurately estimate a person’s biomechanics. The knowledge gained can be used to launch tailor-made training or prevention.

All wearable technologies have to be carefully tested to ensure they meet strict manufacturing requirements. Most wearable technological devices worn close to the body transmit data to smart phones. The quality of smart clothing must meet both the necessary electronic and high-performance textile requirements. Such devices are specially developed and tested so they are made to the highest standards, with advanced performance features, and are safe to use.