Workout clothes the best survival outfit, expert says

MANILA, Philippines — There is a joke among Filipinos that one should always wear good underwear—nobody wants to be found dead in a holed one!

With what is happening in the world right now, among which are terror attacks, people cannot help but recheck what is inside their survival kits.

Besides good underwear, Captain Jobert Tolentino Jr., Disaster and Emergency Responders International chief, recommends prepping your kits with quick-dry clothes such as those usually worn in workouts.

Indeed, for fashion retailers like Uniqlo, workout clothes are no longer just for exercise, but also for everyday life and survival.

Thus, from just a trend, athleisure, athletic leisure, or the use of sportswear for casual wear has become a lifestyle, said Uniqlo Philippines Marketing Director Gette Barrera.

“Worldwide, people are now more into fitness, healthy lifestyle, and staying in shape and staying healthy. We recognize the trend and took that into consideration,” Barrera explained the ethos behind Uniqlo Sports, the Japanese brand’s sportswear line.

The collection is composed of yoga pants, tunic, seamless bras, shirts with built-in bras or bra tops, support tights and socks. It has been infused with Japanese technology such as ultraviolet protection, light mesh for coolness, and stretchable fabric that stays comfortable for different kinds of environments or weather. The collection also boasts of a snug fit that flatters all body types, Barrera assured.

Since it was introduced in the Philippines last year, the collection has been gaining traction among Filipinos, said Barrera. While she is not sure whether the brand’s sports line would become a stand-alone boutique just like in its parent country, Japan, she believes the growing popularity of clothes previously only used for exercise proves that more and more people are staying off the coach and embracing the healthy lifestyle.