Sporting three distinct styles, the Mixed Relay selfie featuring France, Italy, and Germany was one of the most elegant shots of Antholz 2026. Behind every look lies a philosophy—each outfit blends performance, comfort, and identity. We have also taken a close look at the environmental angle of the designs, highlighting sustainability as an important part of their creation.

Italy: EA7 Emporio Armani

Design Concept: Unveiled by the late Giorgio Armani before his passing, the collection is a "manifesto of simplicity”.

Idea: The primary colour is milky white, chosen to evoke harmony with snow-capped alpine peaks and the values of purity and respect. The star piece is an oversized bomber jacket featuring 3D "Italia" embroidery and the first verse of the national anthem, Il Canto degli Italiani, printed inside over the heart.

Sustainability touch: Emporio Armani used waterproof breathable Protectum 7 technique. It focused on durability and local manufacturing. Essentials line promotes timeless, reusable pieces.

Germany: Adidas

Design Concept: The theme is "Inner Fire," inspired by the passion of the athletes and the Olympic flame.

Idea: The collection features a sophisticated "ruby and cream" palette. A unique graphic all-over print incorporates national symbols like the eagle and "GER" abbreviation in various scales, while flowing lines on the jerseys symbolise the movement of a flame.

Germany's Body-Mapping: Adidas used body-mapping technology to develop their Primeknit structure, ensuring that heat-retention and ventilation zones are placed precisely where athletes need them, which reduces material waste during production.

France: Le Coq Sportif

Design Concept: Designed by Stéphane Ashpool, the aesthetic centers on an "artistic and soft" mountain landscape.

Idea: The uniforms feature a topographic map pattern that mimics mountain ranges, with colours transitioning through a tricolour gradient of blue to pink and white. The design draws from ethereal concepts of peace and the "Olympic Truce”.

France's Local Innovation: Le Coq Sportif prioritises short supply chains, with much of their Olympic gear knitted and dyed in France to minimise the carbon footprint of transportation.

Sweden: Uniqlo

Design Concept: Focused on grace and unity, reflected in sleek, sophisticated silhouettes that remain elegant and wearable and symbolised by identical kits for both Olympic and Paralympic athletes, fostering a sense of one team.

LifeWear Philosophy: The uniforms are part of Uniqlo's LifeWear line, focusing on simplicity, quality, functionality, and sustainability, and using advanced materials like HEATTECH, PUFFTECH, and waterproof/breathable Dermizax® fabrics.

Sustainability Focus: The 2026 collection significantly increased the use of materials with low greenhouse gas emissions (approximately 42%), incorporating recycled polyester and down. Some items also feature QR codes for traceability information.

Norway: Craft & Dale of Norway

Design Concept: Performance and Pride collection aims to represent Norway on the world stage by combining high-performance sportswear with traditional Norwegian aesthetics. TA major design element for Team Norway 2026 is a nod to the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d'Ampezzo. The official Team Norway Cortina Sweater by Dale of Norway features geometric Nordic patterns that celebrate 70 years of Norwegian Olympic history.

Layering Excellence: Craft emphasises a layering system adapted for the specific demands of athletes in varying climates, from city venues to mountain peaks.

Modern Technical Materials: Performance pieces incorporate advanced fabrics for moisture management and wind protection, alongside the use of Norwegian and Merino wool for insulation in ceremonial wear.

Photos: IBU/Vianney Thibaut, Ola Wizor, Nordic Focus