Nike takes inspiration from Flyknit with next-generation football kit
21/03/2016
Two years ago, Nike introduced 10 national team kits for the World Cup. Before the tournament had ended, Nike was working on the next generation of kits.
“We did extensive research with players on what their ultimate future uniform would entail and themes started to emerge around fit, breathability and a superhero aesthetic,” said Martin Lotti, Nike’s creative director.
The design team tested hundreds of yarns. “We got right down to the filament level, and remastered it for a texturised surface that helps disband moisture better.”
The yarn is fuller than previous iterations, which enables Nike to use less yarn without risking transparency.
Nike Vapor kits with Nike AeroSwift are 10% lighter, with 50% more stretch than the kits they replace. The new yarn also has a brushed quality to it that feels better against the skin, says Nike.
“We learned a lot – and were very inspired by – Nike Flyknit and how it has advanced footwear,” added Mr Lotti. “We took a similar approach to these garments and then took it to another level for a full body in motion under a variety of conditions.”
Nike Vapor kits with AeroSwift feature a combination of single and double knit; single knit where the athlete needs breathability, double knit where more structure is required. The knitting is so precise it enables construction of holes where needed.
“In the past, we would complete a kit and then laser perforate holes for ventilation in post production,” continues Lotti. “This new method makes it possible for us to build breathability right into the garment without compromising its structure or burning through it.”
For the first time, the kit shorts will be knitted from the same yarn as the jersey. Previous shorts have always been woven, which is more restrictive, but Nike AeroSwift yarn provides the optimum combination of lightweight stretch and structure necessary to achieve a knit short. “Of all the positive player feedback we have received,” says Lotti, “they were most excited about the short. It is drastically more comfortable than anything they have previously experienced.”
The short features a knitted mesh yoke in back and a flat-finish waistband that eliminates the need for a drawstring. “Once you experience the new waistband,” says Lotti, “It immediately seems antiquated to have ever tied a string around your waist to keep you shorts up.”
Nike AeroSwift knitting presents strong visual cues as well. The torso embodies the superhero aesthetic with a defined chestplate construction. “We were focused on the right fit, not a tight fit,” says Lotti, “It was important to reduce grab areas while also ensuring the garment did not ride up.”
The socks feature NikeGRIP technology, a two-sided solution that integrates more traction at contact points in the sock via the sock’s nanofiber. This works in harmony with the microfiber sock liner in Nike Football boots to help prevent the foot from sliding within the boot.
Nike Vapor kits with Nike AeroSwift technology will debut on the England, Brazil, France, Portugal and the US teams.
Image: Cristiano Ronaldo wearing Nike Vapor Kit with AeroSwift Technology
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