Y-3 in space! We officially announce our partnership with Virgin Galactic to create their future pilot flight-suits.

A pioneering spirit and dedication to pushing the boundaries of possibility- Y-3 announce a space-apparel partnership with Virgin Galactic.We have been developing the intersection of fashion and space, underpinned by a shared approach to design and innovation, as they create apparel system for the world’s first commercial spaceline.

The prototype pilot flight-suit and boot was unveiled at Spaceport America in New Mexico, home to Virgin Galactic’s Gateway to Space terminal.

The Y-3 design team has paired the adidas brand’s technical know-how and Y-3’s directional approach to style with the use of advanced fabrics, special techniques and bespoke specifications to ensure fit, comfort and performance. This flight-suit is being designed to fully support a pilot’s natural seating position as identified through a series of tests and trials with the Virgin Galactic pilot corps. Material engineering is key, as the flight-suit has been constructed from Nomex Meta Aramid materials through a 3D engineered pattern.

The specially developed flight boot contains leather and Nomex materials and features advanced structural details for tailored functionally, including an outsole with TRAXION™ outsole lugs for ultimate grip and an adiPRENE® heel insert for comfort and shock absorption. These prototypes have reached a stage of maturity that will enable pilots to start trialing them in-flight during Virgin Galactic’s flight test program, so that their feedback on such features and functionality can be integrated into a fully resolved and test-proven design.