Hooping generally refers to manipulation of and artistic movement, or dancing with a hoop as a prop. It combines technical moves and tricks with freestyle dancing. Modern hooping has been influenced by art forms such as rhythmic gymnastics, hip-hop, freestyle dance, fire performance, twirling, poi, and other dance. It can be done anytime, practically anywhere and is a fun hobby as well as form of exercise. As hooping became a part of the mainstream fitness world, it has begun its own culture and can be seen in the apparel that hoopers wear. Hooping has its own style, its own fashion. One’s wardrobe often appears to be a major consideration in the activity. Additionally, they serve a mechanical and functional purpose. Hooping apparel are becoming part of the story we tell with our hoops, not just a story in themselves. These motivations for hoop-specific clothing we can relegate to the category of “utility.”

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    Generally, hula hooping is suitable for kids and adults of all ages, so there isn’t really a direct target market for them. From prior knowledge and experience, it is safe to say that majority who enjoy this activity are between the ages of 18-30. Over the last few years, it has become an activity for both men and women to enjoy. However, it most popular with women. The theme I chose was to incorporate this idea of maintaining a similar lifestyle when it comes to exercise and play. Apparel should move with you, not against you. Your activities should be of most benefit to your development, and not harmful or extraneous. In order to try to cater these needs, it is important to incorporate grip, so the hoop doesn’t fall down. Also, comfort is a main factor, as hooping is a very movement related exercise. Pockets are extremely helpful, as long as they aren’t directly in the way. It is important to have as simple clothing as possible to participate in this activity, as having many layers can get in the way and loses comfort. Dri-fit comfort clothing as well as spandex works particularly well in this case. Hooping is a great activity to be done anytime and anywhere, so establishing a connection between athletic and casual very is important and allows for this to be done during leisure or exercise time.

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    There are not many big name retailers promoting clothing for this activity. In many cases, apparel for this activity is usually custom-made and sold independently. For example, many have begun selling items directly for hooping on online platforms, such as Etsy. Although hooping can be easily done with much casual wear, some clothes just aren’t suitable for hooping. Additionally, hooping with fire comes with strict clothing rules.  It's much easier to hoop in natural clothes made from natural fibers (cotton, silk, linen, and hemp) because they cling better to the hoop. Synthetic and polyester fabrics do not allow for the hoop to grab between the body and the hoop, which causes the hoop to slip down from the body. Skin-to-skin contact with the hula hoop is typically preferred, but finding the right clothes to wear while dancing is still important. Many tricks require skin-to-hoop contact to properly execute and practice. For the best results, avoid wearing jackets, belts, full pockets, non-stretchy or multi-layered clothing. These items can stall the hoop from moving up and down the body, are dangerous to use with fire and generally limit the options in flow.