You may find yourself asking what adaptive clothing is. The truth is, this is a question for many, as it usually arises from the lack of integration with those less abled.
In other words, if you aren’t a part of the disabled community, which is comprised of those with disabilities and those that know someone with a disability, you would never have a need to understand the importance of adaptive clothing.
While adaptive clothing isn’t a need to everyone, it is pivotal to people who face difficulties when it comes to dressing independently.
Although there is still a long way to go for companies to understand inclusivity on a wider scale, some brands are taking initiative in this space.
Keep reading to discover the best adaptive clothing brands for adults and children.
Click an option below to shop the retailer directly.
What is adaptive clothing?
Adaptive clothing is garments made specifically for individuals with disabilities who find it challenging to dress independently. This can be because of age, wheelchair usage, level of motor skills, a condition such as cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis, a brain injury and more.
Therefore, adaptive clothing is designed using elements that make getting dressed easier.
You’ll often find that velcro closures, magnetic buttons, side openings, step-in options, easy access points and sensory-friendly materials are used in these garments.
If you or someone you know would benefit from adaptive clothing, or you simply want to learn more, take a look at the below shopping options.
The shopping mogul has partnered with Cat & Jack to create clothing for kids to feel comfortable, playful and like the superstars they are.
The adaptive kids line includes features such as magnetic buttons, side zippers, abdominal access, soft fabric and more.
Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive was created with one goal in mind: “to deliver classic, American cool style with innovative design twists that make getting dressed easier for all.”
The brand offers styles for women, men, boys and girls. You can shop by user, or you can shop by solution, such as easy closures, comfort, seated wear and fit for prosthetics.
BILLY Footwear came about when co-founder Billy Price broke his neck from a three-story fall. After becoming paralyzed from the chest down, he lost most of his mobility and had to learn new tips and tricks to successfully get dressed. However, shoes were a different story, as he couldn’t find a pair of shoes that were both stylish and functional for him.
Fast forward to the present day and Billy has created a brand that focuses on universal design.
Many of the shoe styles feature velcro, wide sizes and zippers that loop nearly to the top, offering step-in options.
If you’ve been on the hunt for stylish, adaptive jeans, Seven7 has your back.
The offered pants include components such as faux front zippers, minimal seaming, velcro fastenings, soft, stretch denim, absence of back pockets and more. Each jean offers something different to meet people’s needs where they are.
An extension of Zappos.com, Zappos Adaptive helps provide men, women and children get what they want and what they need — because more often than not, the two are not synonymous in the disabled community.
Zappos Adaptive does this by allowing shoppers to purchase a single right or left shoe or create their own pair of different sized shoes.
Slick Chicks undergarments are made to empower the user, as they feature side fasteners, removable straps and open-ended zippers to make getting in and getting out of undergarments simple.
The Slick Chicks undies even use a special material to ensure they’re soft, stretchy, anti-microbial, breathable and moisture-wicking.
“We recognize that a little ease goes a long way,” states the Kohl’s website. “That’s why we’re happy to offer adaptive designs from a few of your favorite brands.”
Shop Kohl’s Adaptive by gender, age or need, such as abdominal access, diaper-friendly, seated comfort, easy dressing or sensory friendly.
With eight various shopping categories, JCPenney offers adaptive clothing for men, women and children. You can look forward to sensory friendly materials, easy on and off options, adjustable features and hidden access openings.
For more recommendations, check out the New York Post shopping section.
