BANGKOK — The Paralympic Committee of Thailand has invited Thai disabled athletes and coaching staff to contribute their ideas for the design of the uniforms for the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paralympic Games.
This collaborative effort involves working with the Thai fashion brand PIPATCHARA, actively gathering feedback from the athletes to ensure the uniforms meet their needs and accommodate their specific lifestyle requirements. The goal is to provide maximum comfort while aligning with the athletes’ customary challenges.
PIPATCHARA has selected recycled materials for these uniforms, incorporating traditional Thai macramé art for the strap weaving of the pouches, and also collaborated with FBT to design competitions, training, and warm-up suits. The design features Braille, the universal script for the visually impaired, prominently integrated into the sportswear to symbolize the athletes’ representation of Thailand with the expression “THAILAND.”
Lt. Naiyanobh Bhirombhakdi, President National Paralympic Committee of Thailand, said, “We have prepared these uniforms for our athletes, coaches, and staff participating in the Paralympic Games.”
These uniforms are designed for comfort and practicality, considering the athletes’ unique needs, while also being elegant as representatives of Thailand. The use of sustainable materials highlights our commitment to environmental conservation, working closely with Thai designers from the initial consultation to the final tailoring and color selection. The athletes take pride in having their voices heard in the design process.”
Thai wheelchair racing athlete Prawat Wahoram, a seven-time Paralympic gold medalist, expressed his delight in contributing to the design process. “The most important aspect for us is comfort, as our bodies have different needs. I thank the Paralympic Committee and PIPATCHARA for making uniforms that meet our requirements and look great, making us proud to represent our nation.”
Similarly, Thai para table tennis athlete Wanchai Chaiwut appreciated the opportunity to participate in the design process for the first time in his 20-year career.
“We need practical, comfortable uniforms that facilitate our daily lives and can be used post-competition. Shoes are also essential to prevent injuries during continuous competition. It’s gratifying that our needs have been considered this time.”
Pipatchara Kaeojinda, Co-founder of PIPATCHARA, emphasized the team’s dedication to designing uniforms that not only provide comfort but also reflect the athletes’ pride in representing Thailand. The designs are simple yet elegant, suitable for all body types.
The special features of these uniforms include detachable sleeves, customizable pants, and small personal bags made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles. The bag straps maintain PIPATCHARA’s signature macramé style, rooted in traditional Thai art.
The Thai Paralympic team’s ceremonial uniforms for the opening of the “Paris 2024 Paralympic Games” are designed under the concept “Prepare to Take Off,” symbolizing overcoming obstacles and achieving new successes. They incorporate the colors of the Thai flag with a contemporary design approach.
The 2024 Paralympic Games are scheduled to be held in Paris from August 28 to September 8, 2024, with 79 Thai Paralympians qualifying to compete.
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