Surge BMX Racing Kit

  • Prize
    Winner in Sportswear Design / Outdoor Sports
  • University
    University of Oregon
  • Lead Designer
    Rachael Belshaw
  • Professor Credit
    Susan Sokolowski⁠
  • Photo Credit
    Rachael Belshaw
  • Design Status
    Prototype
  • Web URL

Description
The Surge BMX Racing Kit is a high-performance race uniform designed for elite female BMX athletes. Riders face intense physical demands, including high-speed sprinting, impact, and rapid directional changes, requiring a system that supports movement while maintaining durability and comfort. Through athlete feedback, a key insight emerged: riders want to look and feel like women on the track, not like they are wearing scaled-down men’s gear. This kit addresses that gap with a balanced, female-specific fit, combining a relaxed-fitting top for freedom of movement with fitted bottoms that reduce excess material and prevent interference while riding.
The Surge features reinforced zones in high-wear areas to withstand abrasion and impact, while 4-way stretch woven fabrics allow unrestricted motion on the bike. Polyester mesh is integrated into key heat zones to improve breathability and moisture management during competition. The split leg color design creates a subtle contrast as the rider moves, enhancing visibility on screen and emphasizing motion.

Innovation
The Surge BMX Racing Kit is designed to address the need for improved fit, comfort, and durability identified through athlete feedback. Based on a survey of 50 female BMX riders, over 60% preferred a relaxed-fitting top that allows for freedom of movement without excess bulk, while over 70% preferred tight-fitted bottoms with an adjustable waistband for a secure and supportive fit.
This kit responds by pairing a more relaxed upper with a close-fitting lower to balance mobility and stability. Durable materials and reinforced zones withstand the demands of racing, while the split-leg color design creates a subtle contrast as the rider moves, enhancing visibility on screen.

Product Detail
The high-wear zones at the knees, elbows, and cuffs are reinforced to increase durability without adding bulk, while strategically placed mesh panels in high-sweat areas improve breathability and support mobility.
The body is constructed from a 4-way stretch woven fabric that allows for unrestricted movement and a performance fit. Polyester mesh enhances ventilation, while the elastic waistband provides a secure, adaptive fit. That balances durability, comfort, and lightweight performance.

Specification
The Surge BMX Racing Kit is prototyped in a women’s size small with a performance fit.
Available in three colorways, including red, white, and navy, designed for visibility on the track.

Bio
I’m a sports product designer with a
background in industrial design and competitive Rock climbing, focused on creating durable, inclusive, performance-driven gear and apparel. My experience in sports retail, prototyping, 3D modeling, and user research strengthens my ability to solve real performance challenges, and my graduate work has deepened my skills in collaboration and material innovation. I’m driven to design thoughtful products that help more people enjoy the activities they love.



  • FIT Seal

FIT Sport Design Awards 2026
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