Decathlon, the world’s largest sporting goods retailer, has announced a global partnership with UK materials technology company Rheon Labs.

The collaboration gives Decathlon access to Rheon’s full technology platform – including current and future innovations in strain-rate sensitive materials – enabling the development of apparel that enhances control, comfort and performance during physical activity.

Rheon is a patented polymer that remains soft and flexible during everyday movement but stiffens dynamically in response to movement or impact. The result is support that adapts to the body’s needs in real time – improving comfort, control, and performance without sacrificing freedom of movement.

“Decathlon’s belief that innovation should serve everyone aligns perfectly with our own,” said Rheon Labs CEO Stephen Bates. “Rheon started in elite sport but this partnership will unlock that same level of performance for millions more.”

The first launch from the partnership will be a Kiprun running tight, arriving in Autumn/Winter 25 and designed to focus energy and reduce muscle movement.

Additional developments are underway across other categories, including the Decathlon fitness sports specialist Domyos, with the first technologies set to arrive in 2026.

“Innovation truly matters when it empowers everyone,” said Aurelien Corbier, textile innovation leader at Decathlon. “By partnering with Rheon Labs, we’re taking materials designed for athletes and making them accessible to all. This aligns perfectly with our focus on providing excellent products for everyone, leading to better comfort, control and performance.”

www.decathlon.com

www.rheonlabs.com