Derby-based apparel specialist HUUB has created pro athlete suits for Team Europe at the Collins Cup. HUUB notes that the Team Europe trisuits have been through a unique process developed in collaboration with aerodynamicist, Dan Bigham; Steve Faulkner, Senior Lecturer Sports Engineering & Physiology at Nottingham Trent University; and PhD student Philipa Jobling.
The collaboration tested hundreds of fabrics to measure aero performance and the interface between body temperature and clothing, as well as the benefits of different fabrics on performance – resulting in a new ‘aero-heat-matrix’.
HUUB adds that this latest product isn’t aimed solely at the elite few. HUUB has set up its own Elite Custom Lab in the UK and will be offering this service to all athletes from October. The company will also be partnering across Europe… ‘with an exciting new network – but for now, we are sworn to secrecy on that.’
Philipa Jobling is a HUUB supported PhD student working on the fabric matrix… ‘to create the perfect race day balance, by developing new equipment and testing protocols to deliver results never before seen in the world of triathlon.’
Jobling said “The new HUUB Collins Cup suit is engineered using an innovative three-tiered, inter- disciplinary approach, incorporating the critical interaction between aerodynamics, human thermoregulation and fabric characteristics.
“The significance of the trade-off between aerodynamics and athlete thermal management is often overlooked yet extremely important, especially during a long duration triathlon. Athletes will be producing high power outputs for a prolonged period in challenging environmental conditions of both heat and humidity.
“With this comes excess body heat production that needs to be dissipated to prevent overheating and to maintain performance. It is really important that we understand the extent at which each individual fabric incorporated into the suits impacts the rider.
Data from extensive wind tunnel and thermal testing shows the chosen textured shoulder fabric significantly reduces drag by allowing for the most aerodynamic and efficient air flow around the body, while the chosen main body fabric is not only fast but also has the capacity to quickly conduct heat and dissipate it away from the body, all whilst maintaining a cool feel.”
HUUB founder and CEO Dean Jackson said “Whilst we support athletes from around the world, we do feel that we have given Team Europe the edge. As we say frequently – it’s what you don’t see that makes you faster.”
HUUB has been building momentum across with endurance sport space, with a push into cycling its latest initiative. The company was recently confirmed as British Triathlon’s Official Wetsuit and Swimwear Partner. It also recently received royal approval after being awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Innovation, which celebrates the success of businesses leading the way with pioneering products or services.
