DECATHLON, the world’s largest sporting goods retailer, has announced a new global partnership with British materials technology firm RHEON LABS to integrate cutting-edge material science into everyday athletic wear.
Through this collaboration, DECATHLON gains access to RHEON’s entire platform of strain-rate sensitive technologies—both existing and in development—allowing for the creation of garments that enhance comfort, control, and performance during movement.
By combining RHEON’s innovative materials with DECATHLON’s expertise in athlete-focused design, the partnership aims to deliver performance-enhancing sportswear that supports a wide range of motion and is accessible to athletes everywhere.
Engineered for Motion, Designed for Adaptability
At the core of the innovation is RHEON™, a patented polymer that remains soft during normal movement but stiffens on impact or under strain. This dynamic behavior provides real-time body support, improving control and comfort without restricting mobility.
Stephen Bates, CEO of RHEON LABS, said, “DECATHLON’s mission to make innovation available to everyone aligns perfectly with our philosophy. RHEON™ was born in elite sport, and this partnership will extend its benefits to millions more.”
The first product to emerge from the collaboration will be a KIPRUN running tight, set to launch in Autumn/Winter 2025, designed to reduce muscle movement and optimize energy flow. Additional developments are underway in other categories, including DOMYOS, DECATHLON’s fitness brand, with first product releases expected in 2026.
Aurelien Corbier, Textile Innovation Leader at DECATHLON, commented, “Innovation only makes a real impact when it’s inclusive. Working with RHEON LABS allows us to bring athlete-level materials to everyone, enhancing comfort, control, and performance in everyday use.”
Innovation Through Collaboration
This strategic alliance highlights both companies’ shared commitment to collaborative innovation—driven by the combined creativity of their design, development, and engineering teams. Together, DECATHLON and RHEON LABS are shaping a future where sport is more inclusive, empowering, and enduring—one where today’s innovations continue to resonate for decades to come.
