Ralph Lauren is officially launching its PoloTech smartshirt that combines “modern style with real-time biometric technology.” Developed in partnership with OMSignal and already tested at the 2014 US Open, the smartshirt will make its retail debut on August 27 along with a companion workout app for iOS that uses detailed data to tailor individualized training for maximum results.
“The Ralph Lauren PoloTech shirt will change the way you look at fashion and apparel. It will give you knowledge you can use to lead a better life,” said David Lauren, Executive Vice President of Global Advertising, Marketing and Corporate Communications. “This is a bridge between technology, fitness and style that approaches wellness and well-being in comprehensive and complementary ways. It will touch many parts of your life.”
As for the companion PoloTech app, it offers live fitness monitoring, reporting as well as a unique “push rate,” rating exertion, power and effort.The smartshirt features silver fibers woven directly into the fabric to give the most accurate readings on heart rate and variability, breathing depth and recovery, intensity of movement, energy output and stress levels, steps taken and calories burned. Also, it has the so called “black box” that collects and processes the information using five connectors and contains a 3D accelerometer that captures intensity of movement based on three g-force measurements.
As for the companion PoloTech app, it offers live fitness monitoring, reporting as well as a unique “push rate,” rating exertion, power and effort. Users get to choose between three categories of workouts, including cardio, strength and agility.
The PoloTech smartshirt will be available at RalphLauren.com, Polo Ralph Lauren’s global flagship in New York City and at its US Open store on the grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where there will be daily demonstrations.