October 5, 2022
During the first Dota 2 The International in 2011, the winning team players, Natus Vincere, go off stage to accept their prize money wearing their jerseys and jeans. Ten years later, Team Spirit holds the trophy of The International 2021 in full athletic gear. The growth and professionalization of the esports industry are not just reflected in rising prize pools and higher viewer numbers but also in the way pros dress.
Nowadays, most pros and streamers prefer athletic shirts and pants like those offered by VIRUS International. Still, some fans seem confused about this development and question the importance of clothing in esports. So, let’s explore why pros make their clothing choices and how they affect their performance.
Comfort is key
Your favorite jeans might look good, but they don’t make your gaming experience easier. Tight waistbands and inflexible fabrics can make you feel uncomfortable over time, distracting you from the game. On the other hand, sports pants such as the Lunar Joggers by VIRUS are stretchy and flexible. Comforting clothes can improve your mental skill and concentration while grinding!
Fit matters
Another factor that plays into the importance of clothes in esports is fit. Specifically, different players often have varying preferences regarding what to wear while gaming. This might sound like a preference of minor significance. However, the fit of your clothes can impact your mood and performance. For example, some players prefer loose shirts that do not disrupt their arm mobility. Others opt for the opposite, as tight shirts are less likely to get in the way of their arm positioning.
A cool-down during heated games
Unlike the common misconception, esports can be physically straining and not just in the sense of carpal tunnel syndrome. Each game consists of several high-pressure situations that accelerate your heart rate and breathing. As the matches become heated, so does your body. Therefore, relying on the support of your clothing to keep you cool is a competitive advantage. For instance, VIRUS has tops specifically designed to cool down your body and reduce sweating.
Clothes support your body functions
Athletic clothes can keep you cool, but they can also do the opposite. Professional players have been implementing warm-ups in their training routines for a while now. Improved blood circulation and warmed-up muscles are crucial to continuously executing fast and precise hand movements during long practice. But what is the point of a good warm-up if your body gets cold right after sitting down? Depending on where and when you play, your body might need extra support to stay warm and cozy. Specific sports clothes, such as these compression pants by VIRUS, are an excellent helper in this situation. They keep you warm and support healthy blood flow without the need for thick fabrics or multiple layers.
A mental boost
I previously stated that a cozy fit is more important than a beautiful design. However, looks do matter in esports to a certain degree. Just like looking professional can make you feel more secure during a job interview, wearing a cute outfit while gaming can boost your confidence. Beyond that, some esports pros have reported feeling unified and uplifted when competing in the same jerseys as their teammates. VIRUS offers great pieces, such as this crop hoodie to make you feel comfy and confident during game practice.
Conclusion
With these factors in mind, we can conclude that the way you dress while gaming can hugely impact your performance. Pro players often trust in athletic clothes’ comfort, perfect fit, and temperature support. If you are now curious about finding the ideal match for you, check out the variety of options available at VIRUS!