Ep 4. Athleisure

Explained is a documentary series that takes a deep dive into a variety of topics, ranging from the world of technology to the mysteries of the human brain. In season 2, episode 4, titled "Athleisure", the show explores one of the most popular trends in fashion and fitness: the fusion of athletic wear and streetwear.

Athleisure has become a ubiquitous trend in recent years, with everyone from yogis to tech CEOs sporting leggings and sneakers on a daily basis. But what is it about this style that has captured the world's attention?Explained delves into the history, culture, and science behind the athleisure trend to uncover the reasons why it has become so popular.

The episode begins by tracing the origins of athleisure back to the 1970s, when brands like Nike and Adidas started to gain popularity among young people who were looking for comfortable, stylish clothes to wear while playing sports. As time went on, these brands began to incorporate elements of streetwear into their designs, creating a new hybrid style that blended the best of both worlds.

From there, the episode explores the cultural impact of athleisure, touching on its role in popularizing fitness and healthy living. The show interviews fitness enthusiasts, fashion designers, and trend experts to get a sense of why athleisure has taken hold in such a big way.

One key reason, according to the episode, is that athleisure allows people to feel comfortable and confident while going about their daily lives. The show notes that people increasingly prioritize comfort over fashion, and athleisure provides a perfect balance of both. Additionally, the trend has helped to break down traditional gender barriers, with men and women sporting similar styles and breaking down outdated notions of what constitutes "men's" and "women's" clothing.

Explained also delves into the science behind athleisure, exploring the various materials and technologies used in the design of athletic wear. From sweat-wicking fabrics to compression technology, the episode reveals the ways in which fashion and science collaborate to create garments that not only look good, but also help to improve athletic performance.

The show also touches on some of the criticisms of the athleisure trend, including concerns about the environmental impact of fast fashion and the potential for people to prioritize style over function. However, the overall tone of the episode is positive, emphasizing the ways in which athleisure has helped to democratize fashion and empower people to feel confident in their own skin.

Overall, season 2, episode 4 of Explained provides a fascinating look at one of the most significant fashion trends of our time. By exploring its history, culture, and science, the show helps viewers understand why athleisure has become so ubiquitous, and what it says about our society's values and priorities. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a fashionista, or just someone who appreciates a good pair of leggings, "Athleisure" is sure to be an engaging and informative watch.