CUSTOMERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON FIT AND CUSTOMIZATION OF CYCLING SPORTSWEAR: CROSS-NATIONAL COMPARISON

Year 2019, Volume: 29 Issue: 2, 142 - 151, 30.06.2019

Arzu Vuruşkan

https://doi.org/10.32710/tekstilvekonfeksiyon.488284

Abstract

Feedback on fit and
customization from activewear users provide a valuable source for improvements
in apparel products. This research aims to contribute to effective design and
patternmaking for activewear apparel, with a focus on cycling clothing. Cycling
is becoming more widespread, not only as a professional sport, but also for
commuting and recreational activities. Within the context of this research,
customer preferences for cycling clothing, fit and customization were compared
across two countries. Two data collection methods; semi-structured interviews
and questionnaires were employed, collecting both qualitative and quantitative
data. Data from the interviews and questionnaires, conducted in the US and in
Turkey, revealed similarities between the two environments in cycling habits,
clothing preferences and fit satisfaction. This study is of value, providing an
analysis of cycling clothing and fit issues through a cross-national
comparison, and increasing understanding of cyclists’ needs and desires for
companies interested in international markets.

Keywords

cycling sportswear, activewear, fit, customization, cross-national comparison

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