About: Tenth Athletic is a London-based performance running brand built around the idea of modern endurance. We design technical apparel and equipment for runners who move between city, road, trail and mountain. Our focus is on creating products that feel precise, quiet and almost invisible during movement — garments engineered to reduce distraction, improve comfort and support long-distance performance.
Tenth Athletic is looking for a Performance Sportswear Designer to join the team in King's Cross, London, contributing to the research, design and development of Tenth Athletic’s technical running apparel and accessories.
Responsibilities of the Performance Sportswear Designer:
Researching performance apparel, trail running, materials, construction methods and relevant market developments.
Developing original product concepts, colour directions and seasonal design proposals in line with Tenth Athletic’s design language.
Designing technical running products across tops, shorts, tights, outerwear, carrying equipment and accessories.
Producing accurate technical drawings, specification sheets and production-ready tech packs.
Researching and selecting performance fabrics, trims, components and appropriate construction methods.
Communicating with suppliers and manufacturers throughout product development and sampling.
Reviewing prototypes and samples, conducting fit reviews and preparing clear revision instructions.
Participating in wear testing and field testing, then translating feedback into practical product improvements.
Maintaining organised design files, material records, sample information and product-development documentation.
Working closely with the founder and wider creative team while taking ownership of assigned products from concept through to production.
What Tenth Athletic is looking for:
A minimum of a middleweight sportswear or apparel designer with relevant professional experience and a strong portfolio of commercial work.
Professional experience in sportswear, performance apparel, activewear or a closely related product category.
A strong portfolio demonstrating original apparel design, technical ability and an understanding of functional garment construction.
An understanding of fit, movement, durability and comfort in performance garments.
Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage responsibilities independently.
Demonstrable experience designing technical sportswear, activewear or performance apparel from initial concept through to production.
Strong understanding of functional garment construction, fit, movement and performance requirements.
Proven ability to produce accurate technical drawings, specification sheets and production-ready tech packs.
Good knowledge of performance fabrics, trims, components, finishes and garment manufacturing processes.
Experience reviewing prototypes and samples, conducting fit assessments and preparing clear technical amendments to suppliers or manufacturers.
Confidence communicating directly with suppliers, factories and other development partners.
Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
Strong visual judgement, attention to detail and an organised approach to design and product development.
Ability to work independently, manage priorities and take ownership of assigned products.
Clear written and verbal communication skills.
A genuine interest in running, outdoor performance, material research and function-led design.
Alignment with Tenth Athletic’s approach of developing products through function, material and considered aesthetics.
Experience with CLO or other 3D garment-design software is a plus.
Application
Apply with a CV, a cover letter outlining your suitability and interest, and a portfolio demonstrating relevant sportswear, performance apparel or technical garment-design work to mingzi@tenthathletic.com with the subject
Performance Sportswear Designer Application
