Nike unveils a series of Pinnacle basketball shoes

New Premium Editions of the LeBron 9, Nike Kobe VII and the Nike Zoom Hyperdunk
Designed for Playoff Performance.

MANILA, 25 April 2012 – Nike Basketball today introduced its supercharged Elite Series providing new levels of footwear innovation. The LeBron 9, Nike Kobe VII and Nike Zoom Hyperdunk all feature premium materials and footwear technologies providing players with a performance advantage.

Nike designers have obsessed on every detail. Incorporating the most innovative materials and design techniques, the three styles take performance to another level. Lightweight construction, enhanced fit, dynamic protection and distinctive colors are just some of the innovation included in this premium series.

“At Nike we have a maniacal focus on product innovation to give athletes a competitive advantage,” said Leo Chang, Nike Basketball Footwear Design Director. “For the Nike Basketball Elite Series, we completely re-engineered each shoe from the inside out using the highest performance materials. We took our top franchise models and made them even better for the moment that matters most to our athletes - the run for the championship trophy.”

Home and Away colors are the inspiration for the elegant white and black base of the shoes; as the trophy is the inspiration behind the gold details spread throughout the series. Each style of the Nike Basketball Elite Series worn on court will initially display a special white Swoosh Design. As the playoffs approach, Nike celebrates the player’s achievements by replacing the white Swoosh with a gold one for the finals series.

Mid-foot shanks and heel counters on all three styles of the shoe feature carbon fiber, a premium, ultra-thin technical material that makes them lighter and more responsive. And, for the player who has a “strong” game, the LeBron signature shoe includes extra carbon fiber enforcement that flows from the heel all the way to the wing, providing just the right amount of support needed for the moves involved in that style of play.

The Nike Pro Combat inspired padded collar protection -- strategically positioned along the tongue and innersleeves - gives the series a unique aesthetic and the best support for impact and pressure. Made of molded and articulated foam, the collar is extra flexible, allowing it to adapt to the anatomy of the foot and create a superior fit.

The LeBron 9, Nike Kobe VII and Nike Zoom Hyperdunk uppers all incorporate the highest performance materials, each re-engineered from inside out to ensure that the products are as light as possible. The lightweight construction accommodates the ultra-high tensile strength Flywire made with Kevlar® aramid. This premium material has lower levels of stretch resulting in a stronger and lighter shoe, and a perfect fit.

Last but not least, the series comes with a special sock liner built for internal traction. This combines 3D anatomical fit with non-slip print -- strategically distributed throughout the liner – to reduce the internal movement.

The Nike LeBron 9 and Nike Kobe VII are available at Nike stores nationwide beginning April 28, 2012. The Nike LeBron 9 will retail at Php11,595.00 and the Nike Kobe VII at Php9,995.00.

Nike Zoom KD IV provides versatile performance through the perfect fit

Launching December 3, the Nike Zoom KD IV features the new Adaptive Fit system, Hyperfuse construction and a Zoom Air unit – a versatile combination for one of basketball’s most electric players.

The Nike Zoom KD IV was built to the exact specifications of Durant, who is closely involved in the design process with Nike Basketball Footwear Design Director Leo Chang. Chang has led the design for all four of Durant’s Nike signature shoes since 2008. Incorporated for the first time in a basketball shoe, the new Adaptive Fit system provides a lock-down fit with a synthetic strap that wraps up from the inside of the upper and integrates with the laces for superior fit and lateral support.

The Hyperfuse construction on the upper is a composite of three different layers of material that are fused together using a pressing process to create a nearly seamless, one-piece upper that is lightweight, breathable and durable. Furthermore, the Nike Zoom unit in the forefoot provides lightweight, low-profile and responsive cushioning. Lastly, a low collar design provides optimal support and flexibility through the ankle and makes this a versatile shoe for multiple positions on the court.

As Kevin evolves as a basketball player so do his shoes. “First and foremost my shoe needs to be comfortable - it felt like I had been playing with them the whole season. The Adaptive Fit system is a customized feel and locks me in,” said Durant.

Designed with direct insights from Kevin Durant and his lineage, the Nike Zoom KD IV pays tribute to his team and family with details incorporated into the outsole including a lightning bolt traction pattern representing KD’s team and “Big Chucky” on the heel which pays tribute to KD’s late childhood mentor and coach. The initials “WP” in the shape of a heart on each toe represent Kevin’s parents and “Barbara” is his grandmother’s name. Personal messages as “Work Hard” and “Stay Focused” are printed also on the outsole.

The Nike Zoom KD IV launches on December 1, 2011 in select Nike stores nationwide. The KD IV will retail at Php4,795.00.

Nike Sportswear gives its icon pieces a modern twist

Athletes show their off-field styles. In photo are (L to R):
LA Tenorio, Jinno Rufino, Tata Garcia, Jessica Mendoza and Rio dela Cruz.

Introducing its pinnacle range of footwear and apparel set to dominate the wardrobes of our style-conscious athletes and sports enthusiasts, Nike Philippines officially launched its Nike Sportswear (NSW) Fall and Holiday 2011 collections that embody the modernized classic pieces, yet staying true to its athletic tradition.

“Nike Sportswear has always been known for its statement making pieces that fit various active lifestyles. In these new collections, we zero in to the spectrum of styles and preferences by creating footwear and apparel pieces that speak about the character of an athlete on and off the field,” said Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager Mae Dichupa.

This season, step out in style with our NSW classic favorites refreshed with a modern twist - the AW77 Hoody and the Air Max 90. Remixing old and new styles, athletes and sports enthusiasts will be delighted to find cotton staples sit alongside cutting-edge fabric mixes for unrivalled comfort and style statement. Pushing the creativity to the peak, our in-house designers have kept the silhouettes clean with unwavering attention-to-detail to place each piece in the easy-to-wear yet statement-making category.

Athletes can also expect the usual surprises of concealed storage, unexpected material blends and unrivalled fit to ensure they’re always on the forefront of style without sacrificing comfort.

AW77 Hybrid Hoody
A classic hoody remixed, the AW77 Hybrid Hoody is reintroduced this Fall with technology innovations featuring waterproof Vislon zippers, bonded seams and tape back construction for a better fit. Listening to the voices of our athletes, the modifications have set the bar of their style requirements and the practicality of wear, topping the charts as the off-field choice for the season.

The AW77 Hybrid Hoody can be traced to its debut in 1977, and is today remixed in bright colors and premium details. Made from 100% cotton terry fleece fabric, the hoody provides a soft athletic fit and the full front zip affords customized ventilation to adjust to the swings in weather in our unpredictable tropical climate. New features including bonded seams afford a more comfortable wear, embroidered eyelets under the arms for enhanced ventilation, a Vislon zip pocket above the left kangaroo pocket to protect and secure small items and a scuba hood with a bungee draw-cord in a contrast color for a customized fit creating the twist on the classic hoody.

SRP:
AW77 Hybrid Fleece FZ (Men’s) - P4,295
AW77 Team EZ Hoody (Women’s) - P3,795

Air Max 90 Fuse 2.0
One of Nike’s most innovative icons, the Air Max 90, has been given a new lease of life in the 21st century, embodied in the Air Max 90 Fuse 2.0. What began as a traditional process of hand-sewn running shoes has evolved into a machine precision, heat pressurized system that utilizes advanced modern materials that is the Hyperfuse, created for an enhanced breathable, and lightweight shoe.

Hyperfuse creates a durable composite material composed of three layers; one for stability, one for breathability and the third for durability. All three layers are fused together using heat and pressure to create a level of precision unattainable via traditional cut-and-sew methods. The uni-body design results in lightweight, breathable footwear and minimizes seams that can wear on an athlete’s foot. This new sport aesthetic is merged with iconic silhouettes from Nike’s past in the Air Max 90 Fuse 2.0. It turns out Hyperfuse also had some unintended results when designers found they could push the limits of both color and finishes with the new technology.

SRP: Air Max 90 Fuse - P5,495

The NSW Fall 2011 Collection is now available at Nike stores nationwide. Visit www.nike.com.ph for more retail information.

Nike Victory Bras Series

No detail too small, no part too minor, the Nike Victory Bra series is setting a new standard for the industry.

July 2011, Manila, Philippines – When it comes to bras, no two women are the same – not in their physiques, needs or desires. Add to that different sports with different impact levels and women have a range of needs that can’t be met with one type of bra. Two years ago, Nike Apparel Innovation designers used this as their guiding principle and asked hundreds of high-
school girls and young women around the world to show them their favorite bras. Together they talked sports-bra support, everything from fabrics and clasps to what their bras’ superpower would be if they could have one.

Inspired by their discussions, the design team knew they could do better – better support, better fit, better ventilation. They wanted to treat a bra like a pinnacle piece of an elite athlete’s gear, to give women a choice of support to fit their body type and the different activities they do.

While no two women are the same, most of the participants were wearing the same bra: a compression fit with a racer-back scoop neck. The designers heard the young women talk about layering two sports bras to increase support while others wore a sports bra over their normal bra for modesty. From this research and insight, the Nike Victory Bra series was born with four
different styles running the gamut of support: Adjust X, Definition, Shape, and Pro Compression. The range fits a breadth of preferences and needs across different sizes and activities.

Nike’s Apparel Innovation design team began the process by looking at how fabrics pull moisture off the body, coming up with a patented fabric laminate that layers material for support and moisture management. Every detail was obsessed, tested and finessed down to the chest band – a 3.5-cm-wide strip just below the cup that hits where women chafe the most. To get it right the team went through 120 versions trying different ways to build the chest band down to the thread and thread count. Even placement of the care label was up for debate. Endless discussions ensued on thread and stitching as they applied to comfort and shaving down overall weight. The hardware was remade to be lighter and less bulky. And, as the project’s Senior Innovation Manager Susan Sokolowski puts it, making the bra “elegant and attractive” was the group’s task.

Then came the ‘aha’ moment when the design team saw an early sample prototype mold and an idea sparked. When eying the mold of a cup shape over a plastic form, it ignited the possibility of remaking the under-bust support completely. As Susan recalls, “We noticed the end of the mold made a pretty line in the fabric. This piece would normally be cut away, and we thought why don’t we do what they’ve done with molded footwear and make a molded, flexible under-bust support?”

The mesh was compressed so it was stable and had no stretch, making it lower profile than the type of under-bust support used before. What should have been trash, just excess fabric surrounding the actual mold was the answer the team was looking for. The moment was akin to Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman seeing his wife’s waffle iron and creating the first Nike Waffle
sole. The new flexible under-bust support has reduced the weight of the fully adjustable versions of the Nike Victory Adjust X and UBra and is protected by a patent (one of three for the Nike Victory Bra series). Each version of the bra is now 10 to 27 percent lighter than the models they’re replacing. And the shoulder straps are also 35 to 90 percent stronger, to provide a solid
anchor.

Through this process, the team also developed a new testing protocol for the bra. In biomechanical lab tests, every woman tests differently. The same woman can wear the same bra and do the same activity, but will get different results on different days simply based on normal hormonal fluctuation in her body. Mechanical testing collects samples from specific components
of the bra to ensure it provides enough support and stretch. It also means the results aren’t subjective.

Not leaving anything to chance, the team conducted extensive wear-testing, with each prototype worn numerous times by professional athletes like Paula Radcliffe and members of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. The results were excellent – no one wanted to give back their bras.

Each element of the Nike Victory Bra series has been obsessed over, crafted and considered. No detail was too small, no part too minor, making it Nike’s most advanced bra yet, setting a new standard for the industry. This focus on everything from the seams and stitches to the thread and hardware adds up to stronger, lighter, more comfortable support for women – no matter what their sport or size.

Nike Victory Adjust X Bra

Its adjustable straps and adjustable chest band with new modern low-profile hardware offers targeted support. The X-back design has key zones of mesh placement for moisture management, making the bra lighter and stronger. It’s innovative molded under-bust support shaves weight and sits flush to the body. With cup-specific sizing and molded cups to encapsulate and stabilize, the Nike Victory Adjust X Bra offers the most support and shaping. Designed for larger chest sizes and high-impact activities, it also comes with a U-back design

SRP: P2,195

Nike Victory Definition Bra

With molded spacer mesh, this bra provides individual encapsulated cup support, as well as modesty and shaping. Excellent for larger cup sizes, it has more vertical and lateral support as well as moisture management. It’s 24 percent lighter and the shoulder strap is also 64 percent stronger than previous bras. The power-mesh racer back comfortably pulls on overhead, while
the mesh is designed to allow the skin to breathe.

SRP: P1,695

Nike Victory Shape Bra

With molded spacer mesh for support and modesty, it has lift and compression for shaping as well as support. Both 11 percent lighter and 36 percent stronger than its most recent predecessors thanks to its new shoulder-strap construction and the spacer mesh used in the bra.

SRP: P1,495

Nike Victory Pro Compression Bra

Crafted of two layers of materials, the Nike Victory Pro Compression model supports the chest by stabilizing the breasts with compression. Made entirely of considered materials, it’s 23 percent lighter than its most recent predecessors and has more support thanks to the new shoulder-strap construction and cross-grain liner.

SRP: P1,195

Nike Trainer 1.3 Max Limited Release on April 27

Manila, April 25, 2011 | Nike Philippines announced today the launch of only 50 pairs of the Nike Trainer 1.3 Max on April 27 exclusively at Nike Park The Fort as a lead up to Manny Pacquiao’s next fight against “Sugar” Shane Mosley on May 7, 2011.

Designed for the multisport athlete looking for a training shoe with excellent cushioning, durability and stability, the Nike Trainer 1.3 Max includes Nike’s top innovations including Flywire and Max Air technologies.

As Manny’s daily running shoe, the Nike Trainer 1.3 Max provides a soft and comfortable ride after hours of rigorous, high-impact training in the gym. With mesh zones for cooling, the shoe is ideal for year-round use in hot climates such as Los Angeles and General Santos, Philippines, where the “Pac Man: has been training for his upcoming bout.

“If you practice hard, you can win every battle,” says Manny. This mantra holds true for athletes throughout the world who realize winning starts with training.

A lottery will be held for the 50 pairs at Nike Park The Fort on April 27, 2011. Ballots will be distributed starting 5pm and the lottery will begin exactly at 7pm. The Nike Trainer 1.3 Max retails at P7,995.

A full Manny Pacquiao-inspired collection of apparel and the Nike Zoom Huarache Low will also be available at select Nike stores beginning April 27.

Get set for the year with Nike Sportswear Spring 2011 Collection

Love the sport. Live the style.

Manila, January 2011 – We may not have winter but there’s no stopping us from celebrating the vibrancy of Spring and getting ourselves geared up for the year ahead. This spring, Nike Sportswear lets you flaunt your favourite hues that make great lifestyle selections.

Born from mavericks, pioneers, iconoclasts, the founding members started Athletics West because nothing like it existed. The experimentation, the breaking of new ground and taking talent to the next level resulted in them changing the face of sport as their generation knew it. This spirit and DNA of Athletics West continues to live through our Nike Sportswear line.

This state of mind, a shared passion and an attitude that connects athletes is synonymous to the increasing call for an active lifestyle where sportswear and urban wear gains prominence in our wardrobes. A history of listening to what athletes want, Nike Sportswear marries style and optimum performance for today’s consumers.

Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager Mae Dichupa said, “Nike Sportswear celebrates the icons originally designed for the world’s best athletes. These styles, true to the culture of sport and Nike’s heritage, have been re-mastered into stylish urban wear to complement today’s lifestyle. While the designs are original and true to form, the icons are revitalised with a radiant display of modern colours, signature detailing, premium materials and modern innovations to create an unrivalled collection.”

This Spring, Nike Sportswear is amplified through icons such as the N98 track jackets and a sweet blast from the past with the V-series range of shoes.

N98
The statement-making piece in the Nike Sportswear SP11 Collection is the N98 track jacket, short for National 1998, inspired by the first kit Nike designed for Brazil’s legendary national team, and perfected by Nike Sportswear. Defined by a certain boldness that befits an icon, the N98 track jacket makes a statement with a striking stripe down the sleeve and a tailored fit for a smart-casual look. Double-knit for comfort, the jacket is cut close but not too tight and features a high-rise collar to protect your neck. Obsess over the stitch and zipper pulls – the sportswear twist is all abou refinement resulting in a jacket with detailing you feel, from flat knit ribbing to bonded seams to fluid, double-welded zips.

V-Series
At Nike, we believe you don’t make things better by making them complicated. This Spring, the V-series is a testament to our philosophy – a line of shoes that cut through all the clutter to make running simple. Originally released in the 1980’s, the line features three different types of performance running shoes for three different types of runners. For extra stability, select the Vector. Looking for lightweight cushioning for fast-paced training, lace up the Vengeance. For the best of both worlds, slip your feet into the Vortex. This season’s star, the V-series have been infused with Lunar, to produce greater impact on the track and off. Keep your eyes peeled for the Lunar Racer Vengeance and Lunar Venture+.

The Nike Sportswear SP11 collection is now available at all NIKE outlets. For a list of NIKE stores, visit www.nikesportswear.com.ph. The N98 retails at P3,795 and the V-series - Air Vengeance SI, Nike Air Vortex, and Nike Air Venture, at P3,995 each.

Nike LunarEclipse+ Women’s +Men's

Nike LunarEclipse+, featuring a gender-specific Lunarlon system, delivers premium cushioning and comfort that constantly adapts to each runner’s stride for a plush, smooth ride. Innovative, floating heel support clip coupled with Dynamic Support provide runner-specific support for all phases of the run. A seamless upper features Flywire for internal comfort and ultra-light, ultra-strong support.

This lightweight women’s-specific, daily distance trainer is ideal for a wide range of runners, from underpronators through severe overpronators.

Key Features:
• Lunarlon cushioning system delivers a unique, lightweight blend of ultra-plush cushioning and support.
• Dynamic Support delivers runner-specific support every phase of the run, limiting excessive pronation.
• Deep gender-specific flex grooves enhance flexibility for a smooth, efficient stride.
• Nike+ Ready Shoe features a secure Nike+ sensor pocket under the sockliner.
• Environmentally preferred rubber Waffle Fill provides multi-surface traction and durability.
• Lightweight mesh enhances breathability for comfort and ventilation.
• Innovative floating heel support clip moves with the foot for enhanced stability and a secure, comfortable fit through all phases of foot strike.
• Supportive carrier is engineered to absorb impact on contact.
• Ultra-light, ultra-strong Flywire panel provides exceptional fit and support.
• Inner-sleeve construction delivers a plush, comfortable fit and feel.
• Reflective elements provide visibility in low-“Bottom-less” carrier light conditions.
• “Bottom-less” construction delivers responsive cushioning,flexibility, and support.
• High-abrasion, environmentally preferred rubber ensures maximum durability in high-wear area.



Nike LunarEclipse+ delivers premium cushioning, comfort and runner-specific support for a plush, smooth ride. Innovative, floating heel support clip coupled with Dynamic Support adapt for each runner and every phase of the run. Lunarlon cushioning system features a “bottom-less” carrier for responsive cushioning and a smooth, efficient range of motion. A seamless upper features Flywire to ensure internal comfort and ultra-light, ultra-strong support.

This daily distance trainer is ideal for a wide range of runners, from underpronators through severe
overpronators.

SRP: P6,495

Key Features:
• NIKE LunarEclipse+ Lunarlon cushioning system delivers lightweight, ultra-plush cushioning, springy response, and support.
• Dynamic Support delivers runner-specific support every phase of the run, limiting excessive pronation.
• Ultra-light, ultra-strong Flywire panel provides exceptional fit and support.
• Deep gender-specific flex grooves enhance flexibility for a smooth, efficient stride.
• Nike+ Ready Shoe features a secure Nike+ sensor pocket under the sockliner.
• Lightweight mesh enhances breathability for comfort and ventilation.
• Innovative floating heel support clip moves with the foot for enhanced stability and a secure, comfortable fit through all phases of foot strike.
• Supportive carrier is engineered to absorb impact on contact.
• Inner-sleeve construction delivers a plush, comfortable fit and feel.
• Reflective elements provide visibility in low-light conditions.
• “Bottom-less” carrier construction delivers responsive cushioning, flexibility, and support.
• High-abrasion, environmentally preferred rubber ensures maximum durability in high-wear area.
• Environmentally preferred rubber Waffle Fill provides multi-surface traction and durability.

Nike Introduces Manny Pacquiao Tees for Upcoming Fight

Nike Philippines suits up Pacquiao fans with the introduction of new Manny Pacquiao inspired Tees – Nike Pride, Pac-Man Knows, and Fight Night tees and the release of the MP Trainer SC 2010 Low. The new Nike tees are scheduled to be released on March 5 while the MP Trainer SC 2010 Low is scheduled to drop on March 10 in select Nike stores nationwide. The effort is a testament of Nike’s continued support for the pound-for-pound king.

On March 13, 2010, Manny will step into the boxing ring to take on Joshua Clottey and this time, he won’t be the contender as his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title is on the line. All eyes will be on Manny Pacquiao again as he takes on another historic battle and Nike Philippines continues its commitment as it rallies the entire nation to support this amazing athlete.

“Nike is proud of all of Manny Pacquiao’s accomplishments,” said Mae Dichupa, Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager. “He serves as an inspiration to athletes around the globe and especially to the youth of the Philippines. His dedication to training, which is how he builds his physical and mental strength, plays a key factor in his success.”
Nobody trains like Manny Pacquiao. Couple that discipline with his talent and skill and we have a world champion. What makes it even more special is that he is Filipino,” added Dichupa.

Train to win with the MP Trainer SC 2010 Low

In 1992, Nike training generated tremendous energy and momentum for the brand. The height of the crescendo was the debut of the Air Trainer SC III. How do you improve on the most iconic training shoe in the industry? How about making it 2 ounces lighter through the use of Nike Flywire, Phylite Midsole, Heel Max Air and Nike Diamond FLX Grooves. The result is the birth of the MP Trainer SC 2010 Low, specially designed with the Philippine flag’s colors of red, blue, white and yellow. The shoe celebrates the nationalism evident in every fight that Manny battles. Inspired heavily by Manny’s pride for and of his local origins, boxing fans are able to train like the champ himself. MP Trainer SC 2010 Low will retail for Php 5,295 on March 10 in select Nike stores nationwide.

Wear your pride



Manny Pacquiao fans can express their support for the boxer with the release of three new Tees: Pride Tee, Pac Man Knows Tee and Fight Night Tee (Poster Tee). All Tees will retail for Php 1,195 on March 5.

The Nike Pride Tee banners the special Manny Pacquiao graphic introduced in his last bout against Miguel Cotto. The graphic depicts icons, symbols and defining moments that have been significant to Manny’s rise as the world champion.

Inspired by the “Knows” campaign that was originally created back in 1986, the Nike Pac Man Knows Tee continues to communicate authentic training experience and maximizes the energy of sport.

Paying tribute to the classic design of the traditional fight-night boxing poster, Nike’s Fight Night Tee showcases different icons relevant to Manny’s boxing career, chronicling his journey to success.
Nike continues its commitment to sporting excellence in boxing as in other sports disciplines. As through the last four years and into the future, Nike’s support for the world’s greatest Filipino boxer will continue to inspire young athletes to achieve their sports dreams.

Nike sportswear SP10 presents N98 track jacket and Air Max BW Gen II

Since its inception, Nike Sportswear has made a virtue of the ethos of evolution, crafting iconic products with innovative materials and defining designs. Nike Sportswear pushes the invisible wall between where the athlete stops playing and starts living.

Richard Clarke, Nike Sportswear’s Global Creative Director, believes that this blurring of boundaries is a logical development of style-savvy athletes embracing the notion that they shouldn’t have to sacrifice personal expression to participate in sport. Yet he notes that Nike’s life-long focus on performance and innovation is the key to creating new expressions of style. “If Nike hadn’t focused on innovation from the beginning, and continued to do so, we wouldn’t continue to drive a style proposition.”

The Spring/Summer 2010 product fuses innovation and sport heritage to enable Nike Sportswear to create new expressions of sport style.

APPAREL

The Nike Sportswear Icon series will see two newly remixed classics: the N98 Track Jacket and the Grand Slam Polo take center stage. The N98 Track Jacket was introduced in 1998 and was worn by teams like the Brazilian national football team. Its 2010 redesign features enhancements such as a flat knit rib collar and cuffs, bonded seams, and double-welded, zippered pockets. The Grand Slam Polo traces its heritage from the tennis court to the sidelines of sport stadiums around the world. Its new incarnation has been crafted to keep the wearer cool and dry with details like a subtle vented collar, the flat-knit fabric for the interior and even the size of buttons.

For Spring 10, we start from the N98 Track Jacket.

N98 (P3,195)

FROM MEDAL STANDS TO THE STREET Inspired by a match that moved the world, the N98 Track Jacket stands for “National 1998,” notably paying tribute to the 1998 Brazilian National Team. The N98 design takes off from the debut Brazilian team kit by Nike, tapping the classic zip-front track jacket’s deep heritage as a true icon of sport style. The Nike Sportswear team has made it a signature piece for spring, integrating it throughout the line, including creating a premium version for NSW Collection with Gore Windstopper fabric, laser-cut bonded RiRi zippers and reflective film across the back piping.

Highlighted features include:

THE FIT: flexible and easy to wear. Built with double knit fabric, flat knit ribs, and true-fitting shoulders.

THE DETAILS: from flat knit rib collar and cuffs, bonded seams, to double-welded, zippered pockets.

THE FINISH: effortlessly comfortable, with inner seams and pockets built with the same refined finish as the outside.

THE STRIPE: from medal stands to the street, the look of the N98 has been worn by the best in sport for over a decade.

CRAFTED: our commitment to craftsmanship, from materials to construction. We sweated each step so you can push it as far as possible.

FOOTWEAR

TORCH—LIGHTWEIGHT AND BREATHABLE INNOVATION ENABLES NEW SHAPE AND NEW FORM

In preparation for a summer of football, the Nike Sportswear footwear design team joined forces with Nike Football to explore the needs of some of the world’s greatest footballers when they leave the field of play. Focused on solving the needs of the athletes, the result is a technical solution called Torch

TORCH AND AIR MAX BW GEN II (P5,995)

At Nike, innovation is a process of creating new spaces in which to address athletes’ needs and improve their performance. When considering how Nike Sportswear could enhance the post-match experience for athletes, the footwear design team adopted a cut-the-weight, lose-the-bulk mindset gleaned from performance football boot design to arrive at a new technical innovation—Torch. Torch is a lightweight, moisture-managing, supremely comfortable three-layer textile. The outer layer features a visually stunning, protective diamond pattern that holds its shape and won’t crease at stress points like traditional materials. The middle layer offers a lightweight structural element that stands up to a post-match cool-down or an active day around town. The inner layer provides moisture-managing breathability to keep the foot cool and allow for a period of rest after a game.

Torch has also been integrated into several classic Nike silhouettes for Spring/Summer 2010. The Air Max BW Gen II, Air Force 1 and Air Maxim 1 all get the Torch treatment, as well as technical enhancements such as welded uppers and natural motion soles. The Air Max BW Gen II was originally introduced in 1991 and has been a cult favorite of runners and sneakerheads ever since.

What may not be apparent upon first view of the Air Max BW Gen II is the Nike Considered design principle of its construction. Based on the idea of modularity, the Torch Air Max has been developed so that numerous mid-sole models from the Air Max family can easily be integrated into the production line, eliminating waste and inefficiency

Nike and Kobe Bryant launch New Zoom Kobe V, lower & lighter

Nike (NYSE: NKE) and Kobe Bryant today announced the debut of the Nike Zoom Kobe V, the brand’s lowest-profile and lightest basketball shoe to date. Bryant challenged Nike to make his signature shoe even lighter and lower than the Nike Zoom Kobe IV he debuted during his 2008-2009 championship season. Nike responded with the Nike Zoom Kobe V, which features a 10 mm forefoot profile and weighs 10.6 ounces – one ounce lighter than the Nike Zoom Kobe IV.

“I wanted to push the envelope with a shoe that meets the demands of my style of play,” Bryant said. “The Kobe V is lighter, lower and more stable. Nike has done it again.”

DIFFERENT SPORTS, SIMILAR DEMANDS

The initial inspiration for Kobe’s low-profile shoe came from an unexpected place: the soccer field. “I watch a lot of soccer and have seen how the best footballers in the world make sharp cuts at top speed in lightweight, low-cut footwear,” Bryant said. “The demands they make on their feet and ankles aren’t that different from what I’m doing on the court, yet nobody assumes they should play in high tops.”

With Bryant’s observation as inspiration, the Nike Sports Research Lab conducted hundreds of hours of testing to create a low-profile shoe that did not compromise stability or lockdown. By modifying the medial arch and sculpting the external heel counter, Nike researchers created a shoe with exceptional performance that moves with the foot and allows for multi-directional cutting. An enhanced outrigger provides lateral stability, while the de-coupled heel maximizes contact surface. The shoe also features a glass/carbon fiber weave shank plate for mid-foot control and rigidity.

“The journey from a high-top to a low-top basketball shoe is far more complex than simply cutting off the ankle collar, as we demonstrated with the Nike Zoom Kobe IV,” said Matt Nurse, Senior Researcher with the Nike Sports Research Lab. “With the Kobe V we constructed an even lighter-weight support system that provides superior, one-to-one lockdown while moving with the foot, not against it.”

LIGHTWEIGHT PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGIES EVOLVED

Building off the success of the Nike Zoom Kobe IV, Nike Performance Footwear Creative Director Eric Avar wanted to further reduce the weight of the shoe while still enhancing support and stability.

“For the Kobe V, we started with the science and performance elements and built from there,” Avar said. “We wanted this shoe to be a true reflection of his game and persona. As Kobe continues to evolve as an athlete, so will the footwear we create for him.”

The Nike Zoom Kobe V also features a lighter, stronger version of Nike’s innovative Flywire technology, that’s strategically placed to perform like synthetic tendons while cradling the foot like a second skin. The shoe’s overlays were bonded with heat welding, which is lighter, more consistent, and less abrasive than traditional stitching. Nike Zoom units in the heel and forefoot, as well as lightweight Phylon-injected midsole, provide a cushioning system that reduces pounding without adding bulk or weight.

Bryant’s input and inspiration was also instrumental in shaping the aesthetics of the Nike Zoom Kobe V. Avar and the design team in Nike’s Innovation Kitchen incorporated aspects of Bryant’s game and personality into every detail in the shoe. The heartbeat traction pattern on the outsole is inspired by the heart, passion and self-described “maniacal will” Bryant brings to the court. The dot-matrix symbol on the front edge of the outsole – found throughout Bryant’s footwear and apparel product this season -- represents a codified language sequence. Nike will offer clues to deciphering its meaning throughout the season.

The Nike Zoom Kobe V will be available in the Philippines starting January 2010 at P6,995.

Nike's Spring 2010 Sportswear collection

Nike Creates Special Edition Tees Celebrating Boxing Champ Manny Pacquiao

Design inspired by Manny’s phenomenal athletic journey as he trains for a new title on November 14, 2009

Nike announced the creation of two special edition tees, the Nike MP Team Pacquiao Eagle Tee and the Nike MP Tee, celebrating boxing great Manny Pacquiao’s possible unprecedented seventh world title in seven different weight classes as he goes into the ring on November 14.

Both shirts, available in limited quantities, will bear the Nike Pacquiao identity crest, an iconic symbol which has come to be associated with Manny’s many victories over the past few years. This specially designed crest also reflects Nike’s unwavering commitment towards supporting one of the greatest boxers of all time, Filipino pride Manny Pacquiao.

“We are very proud to support Manny Pacquiao in all his battles and feats. As he once again steps into the ring for what could be a historic first, Nike and the entire Philippines will be supporting him,” said Mae Dichupa, Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager. “Manny embodies the good sportsmanship and athleticism that Nike athletes possess. We are committed to being a part of his battle - from his rigid training to the actual fight in the ring.”

The Nike MP Team Pacquiao Eagle Tee comes in bold red, showcasing a gold foil outline of the Philippine Eagle head in the center front, with a screenprint of an outlined Eagle wing in the background. The back carries the Team Pacquiao statement in bold letters, with the Nike – Manny Pacquiao logo below it.

The Nike MP Tee comes in black, and showcases the iconic Nike logo on the front, accompanied by Manny Pacquiao’s initials MP in red and blue respectively and a sun to the lower right, reminiscent of the Philippine flag. On the U.S. version of the tee, the back bears the Nike tagline Just Do It in bold letters, with the Nike-Manny Pacquiao crest below it. The localized version of this tee differs in the writing on the reverse side. Instead of Just Do It, the slogan especially for Philippines bears the statement “Lamang Gawin Ito.” The Philippine release will be sold exclusively to the local market.

The Special Edition tees will be available in select Nike stores nationwide including Nike Park The Fort, Trinoma and Glorietta 4 from PHP 1,095 starting November 6th.

Signed Manny Pacquiao merchandise up for auction to benefit GK youth communities

As an added initiative to celebrate Manny and his supporters, signed Manny Pacquiao merchandise will be put up for auction on November 12, and will close on the day of the fight on the 15th.

These items celebrate the journey of Manny Pacquiao’s battles in the boxing ring and the roads he had to take in order for him to make his legacy.

Proceeds from this auction will go to the education of GK youth communities who were victims of typhoon Ondoy and who are slowly putting back the pieces of their life together.