Russian space suits in vogue in orbit

American and European astronauts aboard the International Space Station prefer to wear brand-new space suits made by Russian "space stylists". The Moscow-based special works Kentavr-Nauka develops and makes shorts, T- and Polo-shirts, football-jerseys, underwear, socks and overalls for ISS crews.

Kentavr-Nauka general director Alexander Yarov said that Russian-made products for orbital work are much more comfortable - they are made of only natural materials, pleasant-to-touch pure cotton and wool, which let the body "breath".

To Yarov, all the foreign representatives of the ISS seventh, eighth and ninth expeditions have chosen sets of Russian-made clothes. "Edward Lu, who marked his 40th birthday in the ISS, has ordered an exclusive T-shirt with his birth date embroidered on the chest. He liked to wear it for several days on end", Yarov said.

The special pride of Russian space stylists is the Kentavr anti-blackout suit. All cosmonauts and astronauts without exception like to wear them before going back to earth. Stylish and efficient, it helps them flex their muscles enfeebled in zero gravity.

Another orbital must is the Montazhnik (fitter) set, styled as a fashionable apron with a multitude of pockets and clasps with magnets and Welcro fasteners. A special belt for tools is attached.

Cosmonauts can select from a special "space catalogue", with account for personal and colour preferences, clothes and accessories - 27 in all.