How it started
Dojo Sportswear is the creation of three university friends who went on to work in the fashion and textile industry (specifically, natural raw materials), as well as art and design. Aside from these respective vocational backgrounds, they were also aligned by common interests in health and wellness, along with the ethical values in nature and holistic living.
After personally experiencing the negative effects of polyester sportswear on the skin and developing awareness of the chemical toxicity, they switched to wearing cotton garments for physical activities. Cotton however, holds onto moisture, becoming clammy and uncomfortable during exercise.
Frustrated at the lack of choice, with no optimal sportswear option, they were inspired to search for solutions. Their research led them to discover newly emerging technologies within the textile sector, involving the application of various organic minerals with impressive health and performance properties.
On learning that this cutting-edge science had so far, and only very recently, been implemented within the medical industry, they were excited to investigate the technology’s potential for sportswear.
Working with biology academics in the ground-breaking field of health textiles, a newly patented mineral composite was selected for its outstanding athletic-performance features. After a couple of years of design and testing we are extremely excited to pioneer an entirely new niche of natural sportswear within a market currently dominated by toxic synthetics. No longer must health and performance be mutually exclusive.
The Brand
Dojo - meaning “the place of the way” in Japanese, is a traditional extension of Buddhist temple. It is a space dedicated to learning, physical training and meditation (mind, body and soul).
Dojo Sportswear is not a traditional sports brand. Despite their impressive athletic-performance features, our products are not limited to the sole use of sports or exercise. Nor are they intended for a single location, such as a court, pitch or gymnasium. Instead, we set out to create versatile “athleisure” garments that can continue to be worn throughout the day, as a seemingly second skin.
Our concept draws inspiration from the ancient Eastern philosophies of simplicity and harmony with nature. In contrast to the glossy, neon world of synthetic active-wear, we combine minimalistic design with natural, skin-friendly fabric.
With mounting research on chemically synthetic materials, there is a growing awareness of their negative effects on both human health and the environment. It is time to turn in a new direction. Follow the way of nature, the way of the awakened athlete.