Ralph Lauren teams with OMsignal to launch wearable technology collection

Major fashion retailer Ralph Lauren announced it has partnered with OMsignal to launch a new apparel collection that will feature sensors knitted into the core of the product to read biological and physiological information.

Developed with proprietary technology from OMsignal, whose team is comprised of experts in the fields of neuroscience, sports medicine and engineering, the Ralph Lauren Polo Tech shirt debuted on the opening day of the U.S. Open.

The OM platform sends a broad range of physiological data through the apparel to the users via an app on their smartphone.

“It was clear from our very first meeting that Ralph Lauren had clarity of mind about the future of fashion tech,” said Stéphane Marceau, CEO of OMsignal. “Its legendary Polo brand and unparalleled design and merchandising capabilities make Ralph Lauren a natural partner to bring smart clothing technology into everyday lives.”

Using OMsignal technology, the data gathered by the shirt is stored by a “black box,” which contains an accelerometer and gyroscope that captures movement and direction.

The “black box” sends this data into the cloud, where it is factored into various algorithms that measure performance-oriented biometrics, such as heartbeat and respiration, as well as some psychometrics, including stress level and energy output.

The Ralph Lauren Polo Tech shirt signals the company’s growing presence in the wearable technology market.

“Our vision is that this will transcend sports to help us at every age and in every aspect of life,” said David Lauren, executive VP of global advertising, marketing and corporate communications at Ralph Lauren. “Reaching far beyond just the needs of elite athletes, Polo Tech will offer innovative technology for all ages and lifestyles to promote general wellness and quality of life.”

The U.S. Open marks the first time an international sporting event is being used to launch a collection of wearable products.

Article Topics

biometrics  |  neuroscience  |  wearables