NikeInc.com

New Galatasaray Home Kit Features Perfect Half and Half Design

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:06:00 +0100

For the last game of one of the most successful seasons in the club’s history, Galatasaray players will take to the pitch wearing a new home Nike kit that merges the club's heritage and state-of-the-art technology.

Nike has created the ultimate half-and-half home kit for Galatasaray. The body and sleeves are in the traditional design of red and yellow halves, but for the first time the cuffs and the crew neck collar are also divided equally in these distinctive Galatasaray colors.

The new Galatasaray kit is inspired by similar designs worn in the 1950s and 1960s by Metin Oktay, one of the club’s greatest players hailed by fans as the “uncrowned king.” The kit also reflects the club’s status as the charismatic avant-gardes of European football, who seek to be both stylish and innovative on and off the pitch.

Inside the neck of the shirt is a woven red label featuring a club symbol representing Galatasaray’s entire sporting club beyond just football. The new home shorts are white with a thin yellow stripe along the side. The socks are red with a thin yellow band at the top and on the back is a yellow block to give the players greater visual acuity on the pitch.

The bold new kit showcases Nike’s inherent belief in style, craft and strong aesthetics, while aiding the performance of players with key technological features.

Recycled Polyester

The kit is made from recycled polyester in accord with Nike’s commitment to produce athletic wear with a low environmental impact. The shirt and shorts of each kit are made from up to thirteen recycled plastic water bottles.
In the pioneering process plastic bottles are melted down to form yarn that is spun into recycled polyester, reducing energy consumption by up to 30 percent compared to manufacturing virgin polyester.
Since 2010, Nike has diverted more than 1.1 billion plastic bottles from landfills through the use of recycled polyester.

Fabric and Nike Dri-FIT

The kit is made of fabric weighing just 150 grams, 23 percent lighter than previous Nike kits. It also boasts a 20 percent stronger knit structure and significantly improved stretch.
The fabric is integrated with Nike Dri-FIT technology to draw sweat away from the body to keep players cool and dry.
Updated and improved ventilation zones consisting of tiny laser-cut holes on both sides and across the entire back of the shirt, as well as at the shorts' waistband allows more air inside the kit for additional comfort and cooling.

Fit and construction

Nike embarked on an innovative program creating 3D body scans of some of the world’s leading footballers to produce a more athletic fit tailored to the contours of their bodies.
It has been crafted with bonded T-bars at the junctions of the shirts to support the seams and inner welded seams with a clean finish to give a more striking appearance while also increasing comfort and performance.

Running Goes Primetime with Nike’s We Own the Night Races

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:30:00 +0100

Nike’s We Own The Night run series kicks off May 18 in London's Victoria Park, uniting thousands of female runners in a celebration of sport, style, design and culture. We Own the Night (WOTN) will create a festival atmosphere in the streets of Europe's capitals — London, Amsterdam, Berlin, Paris and Milan — with live music and DJs, light shows and after-parties.

Each city 10K will serve up a unique experience that speaks to the respective city’s character and energy. Nike athletes and influential personalities from the worlds of music, fashion, film and TV will join race participants in each locale.

WOTN participants took part in six-week personalized training programs combining physical and digital experiences leading up to the races. The journey included invites to VIP Nike Training Club classes at locations such as the SoHo House rooftop in Berlin to Paris's beautiful Jardin D'acclimatation. To inspire registrants' training journey, Nike treated them to boutique shopping celebrations with expert fitness and style consultants, and run club sessions hosted by celebrities such as platinum-selling pop star and runner Ellie Goulding.

Digitally, runners have been able to get more out of each run by tracking their time, distance, pace and calories burned via Nike+. They have made every workout count with the Nike+ FuelBand and the Nike Training Club App, and connected with Nike communities via Facebook as they prepare to run and party together.

Here's a preview of each race:

London

In East London, the city’s epicenter of emerging street style and culture, the series will kick off with a race full of vibrant color and music. The Henry Holland-designed race packs have secured the designer a rare male entry to the event; but Holland will face stiff competition at the starting line from marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe. DJs Gemma Cairney and DJ Neev will keep energy high with a curated mix of London's emerging music tracks as runners cruise through Victoria Park.

Amsterdam

The party continues the following night in Amsterdam. DJs will help create an exhilarating atmosphere to keep runners moving through the twists and turns of fluorescent-lit Westerpark. International singer Eva Simons hits the run fresh from the Beyonce tour, joining the WOTN pack on the Catwalk for their moment of running fame. From the track to the stage; Simons will perform a celebration concert as part of the after-hours pay-off.

Berlin

On May 24, sneaker culture capital Berlin will host WOTN on a never-before-run 10K route that travels through illuminated airfields, Berlin's most vibrant neighborhoods animated by spectacular street-style artists and ends with a celebratory party led by hip-hop star Cro at a natural swimming lake. Local singer Jennifer Weist and Olympic athlete Gesa Krause join participants on the race course.

Paris

Style hub Paris has taken WOTN participants on a glamorous training journey since sign-up. Nike offered late-night Nike Training Club classes to Parisian runners in iconic city landmarks — from the panoramic views of the Montparnasse Tower rooftop to the city's most prestigious private fashion addresses. The racecourse embodies the city of chic, with views alternating between the contemporary architecture of the Bibliothèque nationale de France, historic buildings and the borders of the Seine. The city's running and style mavens will join No. 1 distance athlete Laurane Picoche and French actress Sabrina Ouazani on the starting; and an array of light, sound and sensory surprises will be revealed along the route.

Milan

City of design Milan will offer a visual landscape like no other for the series finale on May 31, taking runners from the courtyard of the 14th century Castello Sforzesco, in Parco Sempione to the modern design district of Piazza Gae Aulenti. Italian TV presenters and running lovers Melissa Satta and Fiammetta

Cicogna will join Olympic marathoner Valeria Straneo on the course, bringing both style and inspiration to the starting line. Passing through illuminated tunnels, 3D projections and colliding soundscapes, the run will end with a celebration party featuring Italain soul singer Nina Zilli, and hip-hop artist Shystie at Piazza Cairoli.

The party starts May 18: check this space for post-race updates and details.

For course, event and results information, also visit:

London: Facebook.com/nikerunninguk

Amsterdam: Facebook.com/nikerunningnederland

Berlin: Facebook.com/nikerunning.deutsch

Paris: Facebook.com/nikerunningfrance

MIlan: Facebook.com/nikerunningitalia

The Converse Rubber Tracks Experience Comes To San Francisco

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:00:00 +0100

Today, Converse Inc. announced its first-ever Converse Rubber Tracks pop-up studio in San Francisco from May 20 - June 16, offering local musicians the opportunity to record for free. Converse will also present Converse Rubber Tracks Live in San Francisco, a free bi-monthly concert series debuting in August. Coinciding with the launch of the new Converse retail store in San Francisco, the upcoming music initiatives support creative expression and provide great opportunities for emerging Bay Area artists to create and showcase their music.

“Converse is committed to inspire the Bay Area community to unleash their creative spirit and be useful to artists of all types,” said Karen Riley-Grant, Converse Senior Director of North America Marketing. “The city draws people from all over the world and we look forward to celebrating and representing the culture that makes San Francisco unique.”

The Converse Rubber Tracks pop-up studio will take place at Different Fur Studio located in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco. This will be the first of four pop-up studios happening over the next year with next one taking place in August. In the last two years, Converse has brought the Converse Rubber Tracks experience to great music cities including Toronto, Austin, Montreal and Los Angeles, giving musicians valuable studio time.

Converse Rubber Tracks Live is a concert series that originally launched in 2012 in Brooklyn and has since expanded to support cities with vibrant music communities including Los Angeles and Boston. The lineup for these shows include headliners who hand pick emerging artists that have recorded at Converse Rubber Tracks, the community based recording studio in Brooklyn that allows artists to record for free. Since launching, the Converse Rubber Tracks Live series has featured a diverse range of headlining artists including White Rabbits, Action Bronson, Ghostface Killah, A-Trak, King Tuff and Vivian Girls, as well as Converse Rubber Tracks artists We Barbarians, Flatbush Zombies, Heliotropes and more.

Also, in celebration of the new San Francisco retail store opening on Friday, June 28, Converse will launch Converse Represent, a five night free concert series beginning Sunday, June 23 that leads up to the grand opening.

To find out more about Converse Rubber Tracks and to apply for studio time, please visit www.converse.com.

ABOUT CONVERSE
Converse Inc., based in N. Andover, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary sneaker such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® sneaker, the Jack Purcell® sneaker and the One Star® sneaker. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including men's, women's and children’s footwear, apparel and accessories. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 78 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at media.converse.com.

ABOUT CONVERSE RUBBER TRACKS
Converse Rubber Tracks is a state-of-the-art recording studio that is located in the Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY. The 5,200 square-foot, full-service recording space aims to support emerging artists by providing them access to a top-level recording studio at no cost. Artists and bands of all genres and ages from around the world are encouraged to apply and, upon acceptance, may reserve time in the studio to work alongside a team of experienced engineers. Fully equipped with the best instruments and equipment supplied by Converse Rubber Tracks partner Guitar Center, artists will spend time creating their work and in the end retain all the rights to their music. Through Converse Rubber Tracks, Converse is giving back to the creative community that has embraced the brand throughout its over 100 year history. Converse Rubber Tracks provides a platform for artists to unleash their creative spirit that will change the world.

Press Contacts:

Keith Gullla
Converse
646.563.7381 / keith.gulla@converse.com

Allison Elbl
ID
323.822.4800 / aelbl@id-pr.com

New Slam Jam For Converse Jack Purcell Sneaker Evokes Summer Spirit

Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 +0100

Today, Converse Inc. introduces the all-new Slam Jam for Converse Jack Purcell Sneaker for Summer 2013, marking the company's first collaboration with the Italian lifestyle brand. Slam Jam has been rooted in youth culture since 1989 and is widely recognized for its refined take on street style – a natural partner for the Converse First String Jack Purcell Johnny Ox, a sneaker that stirs anticipation of a summer of creative exploration.

“A nautical summer journey was the inspiration for these sneakers,” says Luca Benini, founder of Slam Jam. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Converse and be given the opportunity to rework the legendary Jack Purcell. We wanted to honor the original with unique details to give them a touch of the Slam Jam attitude.”

The Jack Purcell sneaker came on the scene a little over 75 years ago and quickly became a court and campus classic. What began as a humble badminton performance shoe has evolved into a modern style icon symbolizing confidence, wit and effortless style. For the Summer 2013 Slam Jam for Converse Jack Purcell collaboration, Slam Jam subtly updated the familiar silhouette, adding a simple, red snap-button closure. The sneaker can be removed in one easy motion without untying the laces, allowing the wearer to seamlessly go from dry land to sea.

The premium navy upper is finished in a water-repellent waffle canvas, adding extra durability to a material long associated with Converse's DNA. Clean white rubber rands give the kicks a classic look and feel to complement summer wardrobes. The signature Jack Purcell toe-smile features the same bright red accent introduced on the metallic snap-button, canvas lining and bold outsole color pop. The seasonally appropriate expression “Summer Journey” is printed vertically on the right and left sneaker tongues, playing off the Italian brand’s initials and perfectly capturing the carefree spirit that inspired the collaboration.

Converse First String is a limited-edition collection that celebrates craftsmanship, authenticity and collaboration at the highest level. The Slam Jam for Converse Jack Purcell Sneaker will be available in limited quantities, beginning on May 31 at Slam Jam stores and select Converse First String retailers, including Patta in Amsterdam, Firmament in Berlin and Juice in Shanghai.

The sneakers will retail for a MSRP of €110 and will be available in unisex sizing 5-13.

About Converse

Converse Inc., based in N. Andover, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including lifestyle men's, women's and children’s footwear, apparel and accessories. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 78 company-owned retail locations in the U.S.

Media contact

Simon Wainwright

Converse EMEA

simon.wainwright@converse.com

Hurley Pro Video Trials Opens Doors to Hopefuls Across U.S.

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:19:00 +0100

Today Hurley announced the start of the Hurley Pro Video Trials: the first-ever virtual contest for the wildcard slot in the annual ASP World Tour event at Lower Trestles in Southern California.

The event historically has chosen wildcard slots through traditional trials and hand-picked selections, but this year Hurley has opened its doors to all American hopefuls age 13 and over with an unprecedented qualify-by-video format.

“There’s a whole new generation of American surfers with limitless talent,” says Hurley VP of Sports Marketing Pat O’Connell. “So, instead of limiting our trials to just 16 competitors, we wanted to open it up to any American surfer who can put together a string of amazing waves on video — and then leave it up to a public vote. To us, that is a true wildcard and we’re confident the public will pick a someone who will fit right in with the world’s best.”

The winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the Hurley Pro at Lower Trestles in mid-September to officially compete as one of the ASP Top 36 surfers.

Applicants are invited to submit video entries showcasing eight of their best waves (two waves per heat in a four-round contest) on thehurleypro.com from May 15 - July 15. This model mirrors the format of actual ASP competitions, in which surfers are scored on their two best waves.

Sixteen top contenders will be chosen by the judge’s panel, which comprises CEO and Founder Bob Hurley, VP Surf Marketing and former professional surfer Pat O’Connell, Hurley Pro Contest Director Mike Parsons and iconic surfer Rob Machado. Beginning July 29, the top 16 will be placed into brackets, and fans will vote for their favorite in each round in a man-on-man format. Popular vote will determine the winner, to be announced Aug. 2.

For detailed contest rules, visit thehurleypro.com.

Media Contact: Dominique Astorino | dominique_astorino@hurley.com

KOBE 8 MAMBACURIAL Fuses Basketball Performance, Football Inspiration

Wed, 15 May 2013 17:00:00 +0100

Growing up in Italy, Kobe Bryant was an avid basketball and soccer player and remains a dedicated soccer fan to this day. Now Nike pays tribute to Kobe’s love of both sports with the KOBE 8 MAMBACURIAL, a basketball shoe inspired by the unique design of the Nike Mercurial Vapor IX football boot.

Since its launch 15 years ago, the Mercurial has always stood out from the rest. Bold and exciting, ultra lightweight and worn by the best in the game, the boot’s color and design ensure its players are noticed on the pitch.

The KOBE 8 MAMBACURIAL fuses key design attributes of basketball and soccer shoe uppers and includes a number of details borrowed from the Nike Mercurial Vapor IX. The striking Fireberry colorway is taken straight from the soccer boot and applied to the Nike Engineered Mesh upper of the latest Kobe Bryant signature shoe. Oversized white “NIKE” script appears on the medial side of each shoe, and an electric-lime Swoosh shifts from the side to just over the toe. "Mambacurial" is notated on the backside of the tongue, and the upper rests atop a grass graphic and translucent green rubber outsole.

"Soccer boot design has influenced my shoe in the past but the KOBE 8 MAMBACURIAL brings it full circle," Bryant says. "It's great to see powerful design come together across sports."

Kobe Bryant and Nike Basketball give basketball fans the chance to familiarize themselves with soccer inspiration with the KOBE 8 MAMBACURIAL. The shoe is now available at select retailers and nike.com internationally; in North America, the shoe will be available June 7.

Converse Rubber Tracks Live Brings Concert Series to Boston

Wed, 15 May 2013 17:00:00 +0100

Today, Converse Inc. announced it will bring its free live concert series, Converse Rubber Tracks Live, to its hometown of Boston. The free concert series celebrates the Boston music community and will kick off with two events on Wednesday, May 22 and Friday, May 24 at The Sinclair in Cambridge, Mass. In support of the Boston community, the first two concerts in the Converse Rubber Tracks Live in Boston series will be fundraising events to benefit the One Fund Boston. Tickets are $10, with all proceeds benefitting the One Fund Boston. Tickets for Converse Rubber Tracks Live will go on sale to the public on Thursday, May 16 at Noon (EST) via Ticketmaster.com.

The show on May 22 will feature performances by Yeasayer, Ducktails and Converse Rubber Tracks recording artists Bodega Girls and Camden. The May 24 show will feature performances by Curren$y, The Perceptionists, Statik Selektah with guests Sean Price & Termanology and include Converse Rubber Tracks recording artists Moe Pope & Rain and Grey Sky Appeal.

“Our goal at Converse is to find ways to give back to the local communities though music,” said Geoff Cottrill, Converse Chief Marketing Officer. “We are especially excited to bring the Converse Rubber Tracks Live series to our own backyard of Boston and help support the victims and families most affected by the tragedy that occurred.”

The Converse Rubber Tracks Live concert series originally launched in Brooklyn in 2012 and has since expanded to support cities with vibrant music communities including Los Angeles, and now, Boston. The lineup for these shows include headliners who hand-pick emerging artists that have recorded at Converse Rubber Tracks, the community based recording studio in Brooklyn that allows artists to record for free. Since launching, the Converse Rubber Tracks Live series has featured a diverse range of headlining artists including White Rabbits, Action Bronson, Ghostface Killah, A-Trak, King Tuff and Vivian Girls, as well as Converse Rubber Tracks artists We Barbarians, Flatbush Zombies, Heliotropes and more.

Since its Brooklyn opening in July 2011, Converse Rubber Tracks has provided more than 550 emerging artists the opportunity to record in a state-of-the-art studio at no cost. Converse Rubber Tracks supports artistic expression by allowing musicians across all genres an opportunity to record for free and retain all the rights to their music. In the last two years, Converse has brought a “pop-up” version of the Converse Rubber Tracks studio to Austin, Los Angeles, Montreal and Toronto to support the artists in those vibrant music communities. In April 2015, Converse will open its second Converse Rubber Tracks studio in Boston.

About Converse
Converse Inc., based in N. Andover, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary sneaker such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® sneaker, the Jack Purcell® sneaker and the One Star® sneaker. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including men's, women's and children’s footwear, apparel and accessories. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 78 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at media.converse.com.

About Converse Rubber Tracks
Converse Rubber Tracks is a state-of-the-art recording studio that is located in the Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY. The 5,200 square-foot, full-service recording space aims to support emerging artists by providing them access to a top-level recording studio at no cost. Artists and bands of all genres and ages from around the world are encouraged to apply and, upon acceptance, may reserve time in the studio to work alongside a team of experienced engineers. Fully equipped with the best instruments and equipment supplied by Converse Rubber Tracks partner Guitar Center, artists will spend time creating their work and in the end retain all the rights to their music. Through Converse Rubber Tracks, Converse is giving back to the creative community that has embraced the brand throughout its over 100 year history. Converse Rubber Tracks provides a platform for artists to unleash their creative spirit that will change the world.

Press Contacts

Keith Gullla
Converse
646.563.7381 /keith.gulla@converse.com

Allison Elbl
ID
323.822.4800 /aelbl@id-pr.com

Federer vs. Fly: Game, Set, Match

Tue, 14 May 2013 16:00:00 +0100

A man of many talents, Roger Federer puts his cross-training skills to the test wearing the new Nike Free Trainer 5.0 as he looks to backhand a pesky opponent in a new Nike film.

Built for multi-directional movement, the Nike Free Trainer 5.0 mimics the natural motion of the foot with its Chinese finger trap-inspired upper and Nike Free sole.

Designed as one of the most versatile men’s training shoes, it provides Federer with lightweight comfort and supportive lockdown for training in the gym or living room, on the field or street.

Like the Chinese finger trap toy, the upper consists of intertwined bands that are soft and pliable. When the foot is at rest or moving forward or backward, the bands are flexible and compliant. When pressure is applied from side-to-side movement, the bands engage and tighten around the foot for enhanced support.

Directed by Adam Hashemi, “Fly Swatter” was filmed in a private home in Meilen, Switzerland, just outside of Zurich.

Benefits the shoe provides for Federer as he trains to defeat not only the fly, but also the world’s top tennis players:

· Dynamic-fit technology for a glove-like fit

· Natural motion design to deliver a barefoot-like feel with resilient cushioning

· Aggressive rubber nodes on the sole to provide multi-surface traction

The Nike Free Trainer 5.0 is available globally at select retailers and Nike.com.

Does anyone know the best way to get rid of a fly? twitter.com/FedererOfficia…
— Roger Federer (@FedererOfficial) May 13, 2013

Nike Declares $0.21 Quarterly Dividend

Mon, 13 May 2013 21:15:00 +0100

NIKE, Inc. (NYSE: NKE) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share on the company’s outstanding Class A and Class B Common Stock payable on July 1, 2013, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 3, 2013.

About NIKE, Inc.

NIKE, Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly-owned Nike subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories, and Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes surf and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories. For more information, view Nike’s earnings releases and other financial information; individuals can follow @Nike on Twitter.

Tennis Icon Andre Agassi Rejoins Nike

Mon, 13 May 2013 20:55:00 +0100

NIKE, Inc. is delighted to announce an exciting new chapter with sports icon Andre Agassi. The renewed partnership will focus on a shared passion for tennis, along with a commitment to help kids become more active and realize their full potential through sports.

The collaboration is the latest in a long and successful relationship between Nike and Agassi that dates back 25 years. From the early days of his sporting career in 1988, Nike proudly supported Agassi as he established himself as a one of the greatest players in tennis history. The winner of no less than 60 career titles, Agassi's powerful style of play and charismatic personality helped to draw a new, global audience to the game of tennis. By the end of his professional career, he had inspired a new generation to take to the courts.

NIKE, Inc. co-founder and chairman Phil Knight is excited to have Agassi back in the Nike family.

“As one of the world’s greatest tennis players, Agassi embodied the passion, dedication and determination of the Nike brand. As a philanthropist and campaigner, he continues to share Nike’s commitment to inspire the young generation with his Just Do It spirit. We are honored to welcome him back.”

Off the court, Agassi’s achievements have been equally inspiring. Since his retirement from the game, Agassi has worked tirelessly to create an education model that combines a diverse curriculum with physical activity throughout the school day to help curb a growing epidemic of physical inactivity around the world. Agassi will team with Nike to advocate for change, leveraging the Designed to Move framework for action that Nike helped create with more than 70 expert organizations in the fields of physical education, health and the built environment (e.g., parks, green spaces and public transportation).

“The past was exciting, emotional and life-changing for all of us. The future, however, is a landscape filled with unlimited opportunity and a canvas anxiously waiting to be filled in,” Agassi says. "Designed to Move has opened new horizons. Coming back together with Nike through this partnership will have a multiplying effect on this and future generations.”

#BACKHOME. @niketennis @nike twitter.com/AndreAgassi/st…
— Andre Agassi (@AndreAgassi) May 13, 2013

Nike and Calvin Johnson, Jr. Unveil New Signature CJ81 Elite TD Cleat

Mon, 13 May 2013 18:45:00 +0100

The sport of football is faster than ever before with athletes training and competing at previously unseen levels. At the top of his game, wide receiver Calvin Johnson, Jr. seems almost superhuman. Standing at 6’5”, 236 lbs., with a 42-inch vertical leap and a 4.35 second 40-yard dash, he is one of the most dynamic athletes in all of modern football.

Johnson's unique combination of size, strength and speed makes him a powerhouse on the football field and requires a new level of thinking when it comes to his gear. To that end, Nike designers worked closely with Johnson to create his new signature Nike CJ81 Elite TD cleat, combining dynamic natural motion engineering in the upper with a new lockdown support system and hybrid collar design for 360 degrees of explosive speed.

With a background in engineering and a scholarly pedigree, Calvin approaches his game and his equipment from an analytical perspective. His collaboration with Nike designers delivers a cleat that contains, protects and unleashes his athleticism. His size, speed and quickness demand a cleat that offers full range of motion like a low-cut version with the performance benefits and ankle support of a mid. With this in mind, Nike designers created a new lightweight proprioceptive collar that allows full freedom of movement without sacrificing lateral ankle stability and support – a mid-cut that plays like a low.

Calvin’s performance is at an all-time high coming off the 2012 season where he wore the Nike CJ81 Elite TD cleat and broke the all-time single-season receiving record previously held by the Jerry Rice.

“Nike took the time to understand exactly what I need in my cleats — from the way I move, to how much support I need, to the way it feels,” Johnson says. “My new CJ81 Elite TD cleat is built for hardcore performance and it looks amazing.”

Based on Johnson’s insight, strong arch support is critical to his ability to explode off the line of scrimmage as well as make quick powerful cuts. The CJ81 Elite TD features a new dynamic midfoot arch strap created to provide side-to-side and heel lock-down as well as cradled support. The strap transitions from the internal medial side of the foot to the outside lateral side, providing a more customized fit around the arch, while the open mesh panel allows for more ventilation in this area. To support his powerful movement, he also needs additional toe and ankle protection so the lock-down fit from the strap helps with those quick, sharp cuts.

The diamond star pattern across the forefoot and side panel of the cleat upper provides a purposeful body-led solution that allows the upper to conform to the foot providing a more customized fit. The tongue also features a large diamond star perforation to help keep the foot cool and dry.

The full-length speed plate includes a Pebax® outsole for lightweight durable strength and a 12-cleat pattern for precision traction and control on real or artificial turf. Four supplemental studs in the forefoot help to enhance traction and when making quick cuts.

The CJ81 Elite TD cleat is available at Nike retail locations and online at Nike.com.

Nike Free-Inspired TW’14 Delivers Enhanced Fit and Flexibility

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:00:00 +0100

Building upon the success of last year’s TW’13, Nike Golf brings enhancements and a modified look to the new Nike TW’14 footwear. Nike Athlete Tiger Woods debuted the new Nike shoe in a dramatic fashion with his 78th PGA Tour career victory at The Players Championship. The new iconic shoe is also the first Nike Golf shoe to be made available on NIKEiD with previews beginning May 20, 2013.

The original Nike TW’13 was driven by insights from Tiger Woods, who asked:

“I train with Nike Free technology all the time… I love training in it, running in it, lifting in it. So I asked, why can’t I play golf in it?”

Nike designers ran with the idea and set to work creating a Nike Free-inspired golf shoe tailored to maximize Woods’s game.

Nike TW’14 Evolution

Woods first debuted the TW’13 on Tour late in the 2011 season and the shoe took the marketplace by storm in 2012. Through his inspiration, hands-on testing and detailed feedback, Nike Golf has continued to collaborate with Woods on the Nike TW’14, further enhancing fit, feel and function.

The natural motion engineered outsole of the Nike TW’14 is designed to mimic and conform to the innate movement of the foot and still deliver all the protection and traction of a lightweight performance golf shoe. This innovative outsole allows the athlete to keep contact with the ground longer, better harnessing the energy of the foot to the shoe, and therefore, the shoe to the ground.

“These shoes provide freedom of movement and allow me to release more power through my swing,” Woods says.

The new upper features improved ventilation for increased breathability and comfort. This was achieved through strategically located perforations and a more comfortable mesh tongue providing athletes the ventilation they want without compromising the waterproof protection they need.

“With this shoe, we worked diligently to take every detail to a new level,” said Tobie Hatfield, Athlete Projects Innovator in Nike’s Innovation Kitchen. “Tiger’s relentless focus on getting better makes us better. His insights force us to never stop innovating and delivering technology that will enhance a golfer’s performance. In the TW ’14, he wanted more stability with mobility. We've accomplished that by using Nike's Dynamic Flywire technology, which moves with him but stabilizes his foot when he swings. We also increased breathability of the shoe by using a full mesh tongue."

The new TW’14 footwear stays true to Woods’s signature colors, White, Black and Red. A new colorway of Cool Grey with Vivid Blue and Venom Green accents also will be available Aug. 1.

Nike TW’14 on NIKEiD

With the fully customizable TW’14 iD version, consumers can create the perfect combination of breathability and traction for varying playing conditions. In addition to a wide-range of color combinations, golfers can choose between two distinct uppers: waterproof and breathable.

The waterproof upper is made of multi-stretch synthetic leather for weather protection and durability, and the breathable upper (available exclusively through NIKEiD) features lightweight mesh to keep feet comfortable on hot days.
The TW’14iD is available in two outsoles — the Spike version or the Integrated Traction option (molded rubber).
Consumers can also personalize their shoes by adding their names or an inspirational message to the inside tongues.

The Nike TW’14 Black/Reflective Silver-Varsity Red colorway will be available June 7; the Cool Grey/Black-Vivid Blue-Venom Green will be available Aug. 1 (MSRP: $220; MAP/Street: $180).

The Nike TW’14 iD will be on preview starting May 20 and available June 7 (MSRP: $ 225).

Nike Athlete Tiger Woods Claims Fourth Victory of the Season

Mon, 13 May 2013 16:00:00 +0100

Nike Athlete Tiger Woods claimed an impressive fourth win of the season this weekend at The Players Championship. As he held off the field to capture his 78^th career PGA Tour victory, Woods took full advantage of his 14 Nike clubs and new Nike TW’14 shoe, which he debuted in the practice round last Tuesday.

The Nike TW’14 footwear improves upon last year’s TW’13, dellivering enhanced fit, feel and function. It features a natural-motion engineered outsole that allows Woods to keep contact with the ground longer, better harnessing the energy of the foot to the shoe and, therefore, the shoe to the ground.

On a tight course with even tighter driver landing areas, Woods’ VR_S Covert 3 and 5 fairway woods were key to his victory. The VR_S Covert features high-speed cavity back technology, moving weight to the perimeter to increase forgiveness and add even more distance to off-center shots.

First in par-5 scoring for the week, distance and control were imperative to his win.

“It was going so far out there," said Woods. "Like on 18, I had 200 yards to the hole, and I hit a little 8-iron in there and it flew flag high. 3-woods were going over 300 yards. My 5-wood was getting out there near 300.”

Woods continues his streak as No. 1 putter on Tour, with Method technology proving instrumental in his last seven PGA Tour wins for the Swoosh. The Nike Method franchise features Nike’s polymetal groove technology, generating a faster forward roll at impact for increased accuracy and less skid.

Woods also wore apparel from the Nike TW Collection available now in stores.

Woods’s Nike Golf Arsenal

Driver: Nike VR Tour 9.5-degree (Mitsubishi Diamana White Board 73X)
Fairway Wood: Nike VR_S Covert 3-wood/15-degree and Nike VR_S Covert 5-wood/19-degree
Irons: Nike VR Pro Blade (3-PW)
Wedges: Nike VR Pro 56-degree and 60-degree
Putter: Nike Method 001
Ball: Nike ONE Tour D
Footwear: Nike TW’14
Apparel: Nike Tiger Woods Collection

Nike Golf’s 2013 PGA Tour Victories

Tiger Woods- The Players Championship
Tiger Woods- WGC Cadillac Championship
Tiger Woods - Arnold Palmer Invitational
Scott Brown- Puerto Rico Open
Tiger Woods- Farmers Insurance Open
Russell Henley- Sony Open

Nike Golf’s 2013 International Victories

Scott Jamieson – The Nelson Mandela Championship (European Tour)
Charl Schwartzel – Alfred Dunhill Championship (European Tour)

Nike Golf’s 2013 LPGA Tour Victories

Suzann Pettersen- LPGA LOTTE Championship

Nike Golf’s 2013 Ladies International Victories

Suzann Pettersen- Mission Hills World Ladies’ Golf Championship

8,000 Runners Unleashed in the Lion City at Nike She Runs 5K

Sat, 11 May 2013 18:19:00 +0100

On Saturday, May 11, 8,000 women unleashed their fiercely feminine side as they took part in Nike She Runs 5K at Gardens by the Bay East, connecting them to 85,000 other women across 11 cities through Nike’s global She Runs series. This is the third female-only Nike race in Singapore, providing women with a platform to connect, inspire and motivate each other to push their limits.

The race started on a balmy Saturday evening in downtown Singapore, set against the contrasting backdrop of the lush Gardens by the Bay East, and illuminated by the lights of the Marina Bay financial district. The 5K route took runners down the waterfront promenade, crossing over to the Marina Barrage and past the Flower Dome, the world’s largest column-less greenhouse. Here, the band Stellastory entertained with songs to spur runners on, who then made a U-turn to finish back at Gardens by the Bay East.

“Running is a growing sport among women, and we are proud to deliver a positive sports experience to female runners in Singapore where participation is continuing to gain momentum. The race inspires women to embrace running, and find motivation through Nike+ and social communities,” said Alvin Soo, Marketing Manager, Nike Singapore.

“As part of their race journey, participants were enabled and supported through activities such as themed training clinics, Nike Training Club classes, and running with others through Nike+, Nike’s digital running platform,” continued Soo.

Finishers celebrated in style at the race village, with a unique experience just for her, comprising express manicures, massages, and food and beverage offerings. The celebratory atmosphere was further enhanced with performances by the band 53A, Charmaine Pelaez, and DJ duo TWOFACE. Nike She Runs moments were captured through photo booths set up in the race village, while participants tagged their photos on social media with #RUNFREE, connecting their memories with others.

Participating in her first ever Nike She Runs race, 20-year-old Georgina Poh said, “It was a great experience to run with fellow female runners because the camaraderie between us is more emotional, and the bonds created are much stronger. I love the energy at Nike She Runs, and I really enjoyed being a part of it.”

First to cross the finish line, in the individual above-25 category, was 32-year-old Nike athlete Anne Qihui, with a time of 17:51.

Nike’s global She Runs Series inspires women to embrace running and find motivation through Nike+ and social communities by delivering a positive sports experience, particularly in countries where women’s sports participation is continuing to gain momentum. Now in its fourth year, the She Runs series is taking place in 11 cities and kicked off on March 10 in Mexico City. Other host cities include Singapore, Seoul, Sydney, Caracas, Bogotá and Panamá. The series will wrap up on June 8 with a race in Quito, Ecuador. During the three-month-long series, more than 85,000 women (up from 20,000 in 2009) will participate.

Nike Cup 247 Brings Mobile Innovation to the Pitch in Korea

Fri, 10 May 2013 22:25:00 +0100

Nike Korea kicks off the fifth annual Nike Cup five-a-side tournament by adding a new technical innovation to the playing experience.

Renamed Nike Cup 247 to highlight the opportunity for footballers to play “Anytime, Anywhere,” this year’s event debuts a mobile application platform that enables players across Korea to register teams, select opponents and arrange match dates with venues. The app, available on various platforms, also features real-time updates, match result reporting and live chats for team updates.

The month-long Cup has grown into a prestigious stage for young and aspiring footballers. Regional preliminaries begin May 13 and will be managed using the Nike Cup 247 application, arranging match schedules, and sharing game results and league standings of the first-round matches. The app will also serve young footballers by recording points for wins, draws, losses and matches played. Social media engagement will be rewarded with team crest personalization, custom kit printing services and through various football product giveaways.

Successful teams will move on to regional finals held in Seoul, Daegu and Busan. Winners of the regionals will be invited to compete for the national championship title in June.

Since 2009, the Nike Cup has been Korea’s premier five-a-side football tournament for young footballers. Previous winners participated in the Nike Cup England Tour where they watched English Premier League matches and received coaching from Manchester United football school coaches.

For more information on Nike Cup 247, visit Korea’s Nike Football blog. The app will be available on the App Store and other platforms on May 13.

Nike Maxim Ball to be used for FA Cup Final

Fri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 +0100

Nike’s most technologically advanced football, the Nike Maxim FA Cup ball, will be used at Wembley this weekend for the FA Cup Final between Manchester City and Wigan Athletic.

As supporting partner of England's FA Cup, Nike began supplying match balls this year for the semi-final fixtures and has produced a limited edition ball emblazoned with the team names and match date for the Final on Saturday. The partnership between Nike and The Football Association, the oldest football association in the world, was announced in September 2012.

Featuring design and performance innovation that offer superb responsiveness, touch and ball flight, the Nike Maxim ball is enhanced with Nike RaDaR (Rapid Decision and Response) technology, a lab- and field-tested standard of visual performance that allows players to better see the ball and make split-second, game-changing decisions.

Five-layer ball construction guarantees optimal first touch while a 360° sweet spot provides consistent response off the foot to maximize distribution. Aerodynamic textured casing called Geo II Balanced Technology delivers an accurate and powerful strike, no matter where you hit the ball.

New Juventus home kit by Nike features tailored fit, 1980s aesthetic

Fri, 10 May 2013 14:00:00 +0100

Juventus Football Club stays true to its roots with a traditional home kit for next season. The sleek fitted jersey features the club's famous black and white stripes, this time in a thinner style reminiscent of the kits Juventus wore during its dominant run in the 1980s.

The shirt has a lowered white V-neck collar — also inspired by the 1980s kits — a black stripe print on the cuffs, and two side vents on the hem with a flash of black. The bold, bonded black tape at the bottom of the V-neck is a nod to Turin, home to Juventus and the industrial capital of Italy.

Inside the neck is a woven label featuring a shield with the club’s founding year of 1897. On the back of the shirt is the familiar black panel unique to Juventus to hold the players’ names and numbers.

The home shorts are black with a printed stripe along each side, while the socks are white with a black block on the back to give players greater visual acuity on the pitch.

The kit showcases Nike’s inherent belief in style, craft and strong aesthetics, while aiding the performance of players with key technological features.

Recycled Polyester

The kit is made from recycled polyester in accord with Nike’s commitment to produce athletic wear with a low environmental impact. The shirt and shorts of each kit are made from up to thirteen recycled plastic water bottles.
In the pioneering process plastic bottles are melted down to form yarn that is spun into recycled polyester, reducing energy consumption by up to 30 percent compared to manufacturing virgin polyester.
Since 2010, Nike has diverted more than 1.1 billion plastic bottles from landfills through the use of recycled polyester.

Fabric and Nike Dri-FIT

The kit is made of fabric weighing just 150 grams, 23 percent lighter than previous Nike kits. It also boasts a 20 percent stronger knit structure and significantly improved stretch.
The fabric is integrated with Nike Dri-FIT technology to draw sweat away from the body to keep players cool and dry.
Updated and improved ventilation zones consisting of tiny laser-cut holes on both sides and across the entire back of the shirt, as well as at the shorts' waistband allows more air inside the kit for additional comfort and cooling.

Fit and construction

Nike embarked on an innovative program creating 3D body scans of some of the world’s leading footballers to produce a more athletic fit tailored to the contours of their bodies.
It has been crafted with bonded T-bars at the junctions of the shirts to support the seams and inner welded seams with a clean finish to give a more striking appearance while also increasing comfort and performance.

Inside Access: Elite Shorts

Tue, 07 May 2013 17:00:00 +0100

Basketball shorts have completely transformed over the years. From short and tight to long and baggy, shorts are now taking on a new tailored, athletic cut. In July, the new Nike Elite Basketball Stripe shorts will debut.

Nike Basketball’s reign in performance basketball clothing hit full stride in 1987 with a low-cut, fitted cotton short worn mainly for indoor hoops. Shorts boomed in the early 1990s as the outdoor basketball craze was at an all-time high and went international, from Venice Beach, Calif., and Rucker Park, N.Y., to Barcelona and Beijing.

California Cool

The 1990s growth in the basketball apparel business included shorts, mesh jerseys, sleeveless T-shirts and loose tube socks. The trend of hooking up a head-to-toe look by tying tops and bottoms to sneakers migrated from the metro blacktop courts to Madison Avenue in 1992 when Hollywood proclaimed 'White Men Can’t Jump.' Shorts were vital to the signature looks of characters Billy Hoyle and Sidney Deane as Hoyle went long and loose while Deane went short and tight.

A Modern Look

2008 ushered in a new era in performance shorts as the USA men’s and women’s basketball teams debuted state-of-the-art shorts for the Beijing games. The advanced materials, evolved ventilation and fabrication made an impact. The shorts were significantly lighter than previous versions and more breathable and comfortable. This was the starting point for re-imagined, high-performing basketball apparel.

International Breakthrough

The modern look debuted on the world’s best basketball athletes five years ago and the Nike Basketball Elite Short silhouette has catapulted globally. Now the most advanced version arrives in the form of the 2013 Nike Elite Stripe short. Benefits include Dri-FIT knit fabric for staying dry and comfortable, a gripper elastic waistband for secure fit and laser-cut perforations on the side panels for ventilation. The stripe on the side panel draws inspiration from the Nike Elite Socks.

Style preferences come and go, but Nike Basketball’s commitment to create the most technically advanced shorts remains constant. While top athletes have embraced the look and feel of the Nike Elite Short on the court, it's breathable, cooling fabrication translates to off-court appeal for the summer months ahead.

"Inside Access" is a series providing an inside look at Nike Basketball through the lens of events, innovation and athletes. Look for new features the first and third Tuesdays of each month throughout the basketball season.

Nike Welcomes Outstanding Rookies

Tue, 07 May 2013 16:00:00 +0100

Brittney Griner, Elena Delle Donne and Skylar Diggins – the number one, two and three picks, respectively, in the most recent professional draft – are now Nike athletes. All three are dynamic players who recently completed exceptionally decorated collegiate careers. Now, they have signed as partners of the Nike brand, ready to compete at women’s basketball’s top level.

Griner, a dominant 6’ 8” scorer and defender, is a two-time Naismith Award Winner as college basketball’s player of the year (2012, 2013); three-time First Team All America (’11, ’12, ’13); and three-time Big 12 Player of the Year (‘11, ’12, ’13). She holds the all-time NCAA and Big 12 records with 748 blocks, making her the first player in college basketball history with 2,000 points and 500 blocks. Griner also dunked 18 times while at Baylor.

Delle Donne, a versatile 6’ 5” guard/forward, is the 2013 Honda Player of the Year, a two-time First Team All America (’12, ’13) and ranks fifth in all-time NCAA scoring. She is also the two-time Academic All-American of the Year (’12, ’13). Additionally, Delle Donne won a Gold Medal with Team USA at the World University Games.

Diggins, a 5’9” point guard and fiery on-court leader, earned First Team All-America honors in 2012 and 2013 as well as the Big East Player of the Year, and took home the Nancy Lieberman Award as the nation’s best point guard in those seasons. She was named NCAA Regional Most Outstanding Player during the tournament three times (’10, ’11, ’12).

Also joining the Nike roster as rookies are former All-Big Ten guard Tayler Hill and All-SEC center Kelsey Bone.

Stay tuned to NikeInc.com for more on these athletes as the season approaches.

Nike Marks LeBron James’s Most Valuable Player Title with LEBRON X MVP Shoe

Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Nike is celebrating LeBron James’s fourth MVP award with a special edition LEBRON X MVP shoe and a new “Witness History” campaign.

James becomes only the second player to win four MVP titles in five years, joining the select group of four-time MVPs in the award’s 58-year history.

To mark the historic honor, James is wearing a special edition LEBRON X MVP shoe specifically designed by Nike Basketball to commemorate this achievement.

The vibrant LEBRON X MVP shoe fuses the unique colorways and designs of each style in the LEBRON X series, which James debuted in August 2012. The design details, including MVP on the shoe tongue, weave the story of James’s incredible journey over the past year. It’s a path that has seen him striving for excellence by perfecting his shooting efficiency, assists and rebounds to cut through defense effectively as an individual and as a team. Along the way, James has traveled from the courts of London to the hardwood arena of Miami, achieving victory in an extraordinary 27-game winning streak.

With the release of the LEBRON X MVP shoe, Nike pays tribute to a player who has earned his place in basketball history through his unwavering dedication to the pursuit of greatness.

The LEBRON X MVP shoe will be available in limited quantities at select retailers in North America and China soon.