Dutch fashion designer Pauline van Dongen and SKYN Condoms recently teamed up to launch SKYNFEEL Apparel, a conceptual long jump suit that allegedly creates lift to keep jumping athletes in the air longer. The biomorphic suit is inspired by the wings of a dragon fly, and is one of many technologically inspired concept pieces designed by van Dogen.
SKYN is the only condom manufacturer to use the material polyisoprene, not latex. The materials are similar in strength, but SKYN claims that polyispoprene is softer and more malleable. Likewise, the skin-hugging fit stays aerodynamic while running, yet become a slight parachute when jumping. Rather than just limit SKYN to condom manufacturing, Ansell — the Australian company that owns SKYN — wants to branch out.
The sensual video explaining the concept piece focuses on the qualities of the material; thin sheets of fabric catch the light as they dance across the screen, mimicking Dutch athlete Jorén Tromp as he completes a long jump in slow motion. The dramatic music, somber lighting, and model’s focused gaze are reminiscent of the many sport-themed advertisements that often appear before big sporting events; SKYNFEEL Apparel’s launch could not be timelier, as the Rio Olympics are imminent.
The use of the material is thus far only being used for long jumping suits, and there is no word as to whether or not we will see them debuted at the Rio games. However, by removing the functional ‘fixedness’ from condom material, SKYN and van Dogen question the versatility of the things that surround us.
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