Workout gear made with shrimp shells fights stink

Photo courtesy Strongbody Apparel

The latest technology in workout gear uses shellfish shells to fight the bacteria that cause B.O. Yep, you read that right.

Canadian exercise gear company Strongbody is making shorts, shirts, leggings and bras with what they’re calling ChitoSante, which “makes your garments breathable, durable, fast drying, pill resistant, and best of all anti-bacterial and odor resistant,” according to the Strongbody website.

ChitoSante is made with Chitosan powder, which is derived from the shells of shrimp and crabs and is naturally antibacterial.

The creators looked to Kickstarter for a boost, and were able to raise almost $10,000 more than they asked for– so people definitely think there is a need. Strongbody isn’t the only fitness company looking to produce antibacterial clothes– Lululemon has their silverescent line— but they do seem to be the only company that is looking to Chitosan to make it happen.

But what if you have a shellfish allergy? Is Chitosan safe?

Yes, according to a 2005 study published in the journal Military Medicine (and found by Business Week). People with shellfish allergies don’t react to Chitosan, which WebMD explains by explaining that people who are allergic have issues with only the meat, not the shells.

The gear is really pricey– like $63 for a sports bra– but if your gym clothes reek all the time, maybe it’s worth it.