The Optical Motion cycling capsule integrates warp-knitted fabrics, garment engineering and advanced manufacturing to develop performance-focused sportswear.
Italian warp-knitted fabric specialist Eurojersey and Portuguese technical apparel manufacturer Petratex have collaborated on Optical Motion, a performance apparel project that brings textile development and garment engineering together from the start. Using cycling apparel as its starting point, the project explores how fabric structures, garment construction and manufacturing technologies can work together to improve aerodynamics, comfort, breathability and freedom of movement.
Integrated Approach to Performance Wear
Announced on 13 October 2026, Optical Motion follows the concept “Engineered Together.” The collaboration combines Eurojersey’s technical textile expertise with Petratex’s capabilities in garment design, engineering and production.
Rather than developing fabrics and garments separately, the partners coordinate material selection, construction and fit from the earliest stages of product development. This approach allows textile performance and garment design to be refined together according to the intended use.
The project focuses on cycling, where clothing needs to balance comfort, ventilation, aerodynamic performance and support during long-distance activity.
Fabric Structures Designed for Different Needs
Optical Motion uses different textile structures in areas selected according to body movement and performance requirements.
Mesh fabrics are used to support ventilation, while structured surfaces are designed to improve aerodynamics. High-density materials provide support and stability.
By combining these structures within the garments, the partners aim to balance comfort and performance during extended cycling sessions.
The capsule also features a visual identity inspired by Op Art. Three-dimensional textures, contrasting surfaces and reflective elements create a sense of movement and speed. These design features are developed alongside the garments’ technical characteristics rather than added only at the final design stage.
Eurojersey Brings Technical Fabric Expertise
Eurojersey contributes more than 65 years of textile research and manufacturing experience. The Italian company specialises in advanced warp-knitting technologies and operates an integrated production process in Italy.
Its Sensitive Fabrics combine stretch, breathability, durability and comfort for demanding performance applications.
For Optical Motion, this textile expertise supports the development of fabric structures suited to the functional requirements of cycling apparel.
Petratex Contributes Garment Engineering
Petratex brings 37 years of experience in technical garment development. Its capabilities include product design, body mapping, 3D prototyping and advanced manufacturing technologies.
The company’s design and development operations are based in Portugal. Production is available in Portugal or Tunisia through certified Industry 4.0 facilities.
These capabilities support the translation of fabric properties into garment structures designed for specific movement and performance needs.
From Research to Industrial Production
Optical Motion’s development process covers several stages, including research into cycling performance requirements, fabric selection, garment architecture, 3D prototyping, performance validation and industrial production.
Each stage informs the next, allowing the partners to refine materials and construction as development progresses.
The collaboration aims to connect textile innovation with practical garment manufacturing, with the objective of aligning fabric functionality, fit and end-use requirements.
A Collaborative Model for Sportswear Brands
Beyond the cycling capsule, Eurojersey and Petratex see Optical Motion as the starting point for a broader collaborative service for sportswear and performance apparel brands.
The proposed service would support customers from the initial definition of performance requirements through to finished garment production. It would bring textile development, design, engineering and manufacturing into a coordinated process.
According to the partners, this model could give brands greater flexibility when developing specialised performance apparel. It also aims to strengthen the relationship between fabric functionality, garment construction and the demands of the intended activity.
Through Optical Motion, Eurojersey and Petratex are exploring an integrated approach to performance apparel development, with cycling serving as the first application of their combined expertise.