Bluearbor Athletics Norway: Triathlon Programme Comfort and Fit Evaluation
Bluearbor Athletics is a Norway-based brand whose triathlon programme is one of its most demanding programmes. Performance data means nothing if the garment is uncomfortable. This evaluation covers how the chlorine-resistant swim knit behaves on the body during triathlon programme work.
Bluearbor Athletics: Chlorine-Resistant Swim Knit in use during swim, bike and run in a single event
Evaluation background
The programme covers trisuits, shorts and transition layers, used for swim, bike and run in a single event. The environment is transitions between water, wind and road and the requirement written into the brief was one fabric that performs wet and dry without chafe. Fabric was selected on that basis rather than on price alone.
Fabric under evaluation
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Chlorine-Resistant Swim Knit |
| Composition | PBT / polyester / elastane |
| Weight | 230 GSM |
| Width | 165 cm |
| Primary function | holds elasticity and colour through pool exposure |
| Target | less than 15% modulus loss after 100 pool hours |
| Test method | ISO 105-E03 |
| Additional note | sunscreen and chlorine tested together |
| Certification | OEKO-TEX Standard 100 |
Chlorine-Resistant Swim Knit close-up showing the fabric surface
Fit assessment
Size sets were fitted on live models and on a fit form. Fabric extension was measured at the stress points so the pattern could be corrected before bulk cutting.
Movement testing
Wearers performed the movements specific to swim, bike and run in a single event while panel tension was observed. No restriction was reported and recovery between movements was immediate.
Evaluation session with the Bluearbor Athletics team
Next-to-skin comfort
Surface friction, hand and temperature sensation were scored by the panel. The fabric scored best where one fabric that performs wet and dry without chafe, which is the priority Bluearbor Athletics set for this product.
Fit retention
Garments were measured after five and twenty washes. Growth stayed within tolerance, so the fit approved in sampling is the fit the customer eventually receives.
Test records and inspection notes for the Triathlon Programme
Scorecard
| Criterion | Result |
|---|---|
| Next-to-skin feel | 4.4 / 5 |
| Freedom of movement | 4.9 / 5 |
| Recovery | 4.5 / 5 |
| Fit retention | 4.7 / 5 |
| Seam comfort | 4.3 / 5 |
“This is the first season with no comfort complaints in this category.” — Bluearbor Athletics Technical Team
Packed bulk rolls before shipment to Norway
Verdict and recommendation
Comfort and fit were confirmed in wear, and the chlorine-resistant swim knit is approved for bulk with the current pattern. For Bluearbor Athletics the practical next steps are to keep the current specification for the repeat, retain the shade standard, and issue ISO 105-E03 results with every lot so any claim can be supported with data.
