DCA attend ISPO 2016

ISPO BRANDNEW is the world’s largest platform for sports business start-ups and celebrated its 15th anniversary at this year’s ISPO.  The international jury selected the top 50 newcomers from the world of sport and leisure with the overall winner’s prize presented to ICAROS, a brand that is combining VR with core exercises in the form of forward thinking future gym equipment.  The ICAROS experience fuses together the worlds of exercise and gaming, allowing users to experience digital adventures while completing a comprehensive full-body training programme.

Building on trend for connected wearable products, the Skull Orbic Comp H.I. MIPS from POCSKI introduces an H.I. (Helmet Integrity) sensor that monitors impacts and severe deformation of the multi-impact EPP liner and alerts when it’s time to replace your helmet.  This was one of many impact protection products starting to morph into the world of smart wearable tech.

Avalanche safety was very prevalent at this year’s show in the form of backpacks and fitted vests.  All offer instant inflatable airbags however notable additions to this technology include the integration of smart GPS tracking and battery-powered jet-fan inflation.  The later, a breakthrough from Jetforce Technology that draws air from the atmosphere creating a re-deployable and travel-friendly safety solution for mountain sports.

Video and VR is not a new thing and could not be ignored at ISPO 2016.  This trend can be seen from the success of the ICAROS in the ISPO newcomer awards but also by more mainstream video capturing companies such as GoPro.  The US based brand offered an immersive 360 degree experience of base jumping in Dubai or riding on the rooftops of Gran Canaria with Danny Macaskill, all filmed from a 1st person viewpoint with their 360 HD camera and delivered using a Samsung Gear VR headset.

A raft of new smart insole products were on show at this year’s show with most offering the benefit of measure stride length and pattern as well as linking to smart tracking apps.  Interesting builds on the smart tracking included temperature sensors to avoid frostbite and perspiration sensors built into the insole.

The demand for eco-friendly and socially sustainable apparel has risen dramatically over the last few years as consumers become ever more aware of the environmental impacts of the products they purchase.  An outdoor jacket made of molasses, an athletic shoe made of plastic marine debris, or a cycling shoe made of eco-leather, manufacturers brought plenty of sustainable innovations to this year’s ISPO.