Virgin Galactic and Under Armour have unveiled the collaboratively designed spacewear system for Virgin Galactic astronauts, which includes a base layer, spacesuit, footwear, training suit and limited edition astronaut jacket. It is, the companies say, the first such collection ever created specifically for private astronauts.

The spacesuits were designed with input from a variety of experts, including doctors, astronaut trainers, pilots, apparel and footwear designers, engineers and future astronaut customers. The spacesuit is made from lightweight flight-grade fabrics, with cushioning in elbows, knees and in the footwear, to provide safety in out-of-seat zero gravity. 

Temperature management is regulated by performance fibres and knit density, mapped to the body to provide warmth and moisture management, while preventing overheating or chilling. The system will also be worn by Virgin Galactic Mission Specialists on board VSS Unity’s crewed test spaceflights, prior to commercial flights which are currently expected to commence in 2020.

The unveiling event in New York showcased the spacewear on a zero-gravity vertical catwalk, led by Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson (pictured) wearing the spacesuit he’ll wear on the inaugural commercial spaceflight. “I love the way the spacewear looks and I love the way it feels,” he said, “I also love the fact that the next time I put it on, I will be on my way to space.”