Nike Customises Sports Uniforms

Thursday 05th of April 2007 09:14:33 PM

For many years, US college basketball players wore the same uniforms. Aside from wearing different colours, the clothing was the same. Now Nike has introduced a new line of uniforms, System of Dress, that allow players to personalise what they wear on the courts each night. New uniforms include longer shorts, jerseys, long and short sleeved shirts, and leg wraps.

According to Nike, System of Dress is a “performance look borne out of performance insights as well as a shift in culture surrounding the game.” College basketball has grown in popularity over the years as more people have taken an interest in the game and the players.

So far, four universities have taken advantage of the new clothing. Players will be able to distinguish themselves from their team mates, but still be able to be associated with their team. The clothing utilizes the latest in sports clothing technology. “The Nike Fitted Jerseys are made with premium performance materials from Nike including Dri-FIT and Nike Sphere, creating a superior moisture management system,” said Nike's business director of basketball apparel, Hans George.

While the clothing must still adhere to college basketball rules, players will be able to choose clothing that is comfortable for them. “Some athletes are quicker to adopt innovation and those players drive trends over time. We anticipate that some players will move to System of Dress faster than others,” said George.

Nike will be collecting feedback from players that are using the new uniforms to see where improvements or changes can be made. More universities are expected to offer the new clothing to players by next season. Retail versions of the clothing will soon be available online and in certain retail stores.

(c)Marja F-B, www.sxc.hu