From graphene to next-generation composites to 3D printing, advanced materials and processes are helping sportswear manufacturers, sporting goods companies, and sports medicine practitioners take their game to the next level. This special report reviews some of the most innovative technologies making an impact on today’s sports and recreation industry. Technologies addressed include graphene used in sportswear, new production methods for carbon fiber composites, and 3D printed implants to address knee injuries.

For sports and recreation equipment manufacturers and sports medicine clinicians, mechanical testing is essential to optimize material performance, minimize injury, and improve recovery outcomes. This article describes some of the specialized tests used for sports equipment.

Beyond automotive, aerospace, and medical materials innovations, research and development of advanced materials and processes for sports and recreation activities is one of the most exciting areas for today’s materials scientists and engineers. This article compiles examples of materials innovations in equipment for cycling, ice skating, cricket, running, football, sailing, and fishing.

Testing offers vital insights into product performance and enables engineers to determine a material’s suitability as well as the integrity of manufacturing processes as part of quality control initiatives. This article gives examples of testing for high-performance eyewear, composite snowboards, and motorcycle apparel.