It a beautiful summer and you’re probably enjoying a lot of sports right now. So, we thought we’d give you a little test. Think about all the different types of sports out there and all the equipment used by amateurs, professionals, and even coaches.
Pop quiz: How many sports equipment items are crafted from vinyl?
Answer: Almost every sport in North America and around the globe is supported by vinyl.
Let’s take a quick look at just a few sporting equipment items where vinyl definitely wins the MVP award.
Athletic shoes
Whether you use cross trainers or soccer cleats, many pairs of athletic shoes are crafted with vinyl because of its ability to be flexible and work with your natural rhythm, provide shock absorption, and gives you on-going support and comfort under demanding conditions. Think about it…where would the Iron Man be without vinyl?
Bags
Many sports bags feature a rugged waterproof vinyl exterior that protects your gear inside. And, interior vinyl linings and pockets help you keep those sweat-soaked items separate from your other stuff, so even if you’re not going to make it home right after your work out, don’t worry, your secret is safe with vinyl.
Boxing gloves and punching bags
Vinyl is in the ring with boxers, providing durable, tear-resistant surfaces on many boxing gloves and punching bags. Plus, with all that spit and sweat flying around, it’s great that vinyl is waterproof and has anti-bacterial properties.
Helmets
The hard shell on helmets of all shapes and sizes – for cycling, football, hockey, etc. – is usually manufactured from tough vinyl to help protect the wearer from both soft and hard impacts; a perfect solution for today’s rugged individualists.
Landing mats
Vinyl is often a super star as the protective outside layer of landing mats used for gymnastics and other sports, and forms a durable and waterproof barrier that holds up under stress, withstands limitless flips, flops, spins, twists and “nailed” landings, and the fact that vinyl is a breeze to maintain, it leaves more time for athletes to practice, practice, practice…vinyl truly is a win-win material.
Nets
Flexible vinyl is used to border tennis, volleyball and badminton nets to secure the netting and help hold its shape…game…set…match! While more rugged vinyl is used in practice and professional nets for sports such as hockey, soccer and rugby due to its durability…he shoots…he scores!!!
Protective gear
From football and hockey shoulder pads to field and ice hockey shin guards, protective gear for players crafted from vinyl is provides a strong outer layer to take the brunt of any impact without adding excess weight. And guess what…when your protective gear is a lighter weight, you get to play faster, harder, and longer.
Skates
Whether figure skates or hockey skates, skate boots are manufactured with a strong vinyl outer layer, which helps to offer skaters extra support, whether you get checked into the boards or land that enviable triple sow cow. And, when you’re finished dazzling your audience for the day, you can quickly slip on your neon skate blade holders which are usually crafted from impact-resistant vinyl; providing skaters of all ages with a dependable platform for balance and control while off the ice, and protecting those blades destined for victory. Ahhh…yes…victorious vinyl!
Tape and grips
For sports such as tennis and hockey, many players rely on vinyl grips or the application of vinyl tape to make a racquet or stick more comfortable to use, less likely to slip and perfectly suited to their needs…now that’s a wrap!
Training equipment
This is where things get surprising (just in case you didn’t know); vinyl is used in all kinds of personal and team training equipment such as golf swing guides, cones, weights, and those big dummies you see getting pushed around during practice on the football field (don’t worry, we don’t mean the football players☺). Thanks to its lightweight attributes and durability, all of these items are crafted mostly from vinyl, and are easy to transport and position around a gym or training area…vinyl can take whatever you dish out, is very lug-able and can stand the test of any 5 a.m. mini-van run. Vinyl is also used to provide non-slip surfaces and bacteria-resistant barriers on fitness machines and workout gear…don’t tread lightly here…just go for it.
See how it all adds up? No matter which sport is your favourite, it always makes sense to have durable, sustainable vinyl on and around all those body parts you want to protect, and in your corner, base, net, gym, or arena. It’s a slam dunk baby!
