# Blow-Up Professional Uniforms Inflatable Referee Costume By Howard Wu | Published 2008-09-03 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blow-up-calls-inflatable-referee-costume References: [coolest-gadgets](http://www.coolest-gadgets.com/20060818/inflatable-referee-costume/#more-1953) I don't know if this trend will ever catch on in pro sports, but if it ever does, then remember, you heard it here first! The [Inflatable Referee Costume](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/giant-inflatables) is quite functional, as well as being funny to look at. With current professional officials being the target of various thrown objects at live events, the non-stick 100% polyester costume is rather useful. In addition, the battery-operated fan can keep the on-field referee well ventilated after prolonged running. The one-size-fits all attire inflates to give the appearance of larger than normal muscles, and could also double as a [Halloween costume](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/trickortreatable-costume) for others. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.8/10 - Popularity: 10% | Activity: 65% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Sports](https://www.trendhunter.com/sports) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Inflatable Costumes:** The trend of inflatable costumes for various functional and entertainment purposes creates opportunities for costume makers and designers to innovate durable and creative designs beyond their primary functions. - **Non-stick Uniforms:** The use of non-stick material in professional uniforms provide opportunities for manufacturers to explore new functional and safety features that can enhance the performance and protection of wearers. - **Battery-operated Wearables:** The use of battery-operated fans in inflatable costumes creates opportunities for wearable tech manufacturers to experiment with new battery technologies and sustainable power sources that can improve user experience and comfort. ### Where This Applies - **Costume Design and Manufacturing:** The trend of inflatable costumes creates opportunities for costume makers and designers to expand their product lines and tap into new markets beyond Halloween and costume events. - **Sports Apparel and Equipment:** The use of non-stick material in professional uniforms presents opportunities for manufacturers to collaborate with sports leagues and teams to improve player safety, reduce equipment damage, and enhance game experiences. - **Wearable Tech:** The use of battery-operated fans in inflatable costumes provides opportunities for wearable tech manufacturers to apply their expertise in energy management and power optimization to the fashion and entertainment industry. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Hovering Soccer Referee Drones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/referee-drone.md) - [Adaptive Inflatable Puffers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-milano-jacket.md) - [Air-Conditioned Futuristic Uniforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ntt-pavilion.md) - [Wearable WFH Cushion Jumpsuits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wearable-workforce.md) - [Inflatable Gaming Console Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airshock-playstation-controller.md) - [Football Series Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/football-series.md) - [Featherlight Inflatable Bike Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inflabi-bike-helmet.md) - [Snack-Inspired Mascot Costumes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snackstume.md) - [Self-Inflating Bicycle Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bumpair-20.md)