Develop a deeper understanding of performance textiles through a hands-on course combining textile science, practical demonstrations and real-world applications.
Performance clothing relies on the careful selection of fibres, fabrics and finishes to deliver specific levels of comfort, protection and functionality. Whether you work with sportswear, protective apparel or specialist clothing, understanding how materials perform can help you make more informed decisions about textile selection, garment design and product development. Explore how functional clothing works, why performance matters and how to select the right materials for different environments, activities and user needs.
You’ll learn in a small group of up to ten participants, giving you plenty of opportunities for discussion, practical demonstrations and guidance as you explore how textile materials, garment design and performance work together to meet specific requirements.
All materials and equipment required for the course are provided and included in the course fee.
Participants will also receive complimentary refreshments, including snacks, hot drinks and light breakfast pastries, along with a food voucher redeemable at the University Union refectory.
The University of Leeds is a globally recognised institution for textiles and fashion, offering access to outstanding studio facilities in the heart of campus.
Our facilities include a dedicated Materials Testing Lab and Rain Room, where textile and clothing performance can be explored and evaluated in controlled conditions.
Learning on campus gives you the opportunity to see performance textiles and clothing in action through practical demonstrations and performance testing. You’ll learn directly from experts and explore how fibres, fabrics and garment design influence comfort, protection and performance, giving you practical insights you can apply to your own work.
Lecturer in Performance Clothing
Dr Mark Taylor is a specialist in performance and protective apparel, with expertise spanning sustainability, waterproof technologies, impact protection and technical product development. His research focuses on commercially relevant innovation, including recyclable waterproof membranes, microfibre reduction and sustainable alternatives to water-repellent chemical treatments.
Materials Testing Research Technician
Alice Hazlehurst specialises in textile and materials testing, with expertise in evaluating material performance, durability, quality and sustainability. Her work focuses on the application of industry-standard testing methods to assess textile performance and support materials development.
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