Nike provided an early look at the four new primary uniforms it plans to provide the NBA when it takes over the uniform license from Adidas at the start of the 2017/18 season.
Employing 3D body maps of players, including heat and sweat maps, Nike designers said they would up making significant changes to the weight, fit and construction of the uniforms — paying special attention to enabling agility.
NBA players, including members of last summer’s gold medal-winning USA Basketball team, tested early versions of the uniforms and provided specific feedback that prompted Nike to further evolve the designs in ways that included moving the armhole, neck and side seams to eliminate distractions for athletes.
“The mental advantage of a quality uniform is priceless,” said Kyrie Irving. “The fact that Nike listened to all of our feedback while developing the new NBA uniforms speaks volumes. I’m excited for the new fit and feel.”
The most significant change comes to the back shoulder of the uniform, where Nike designers altered the construction for an improved fit. Additionally, the hemlines on the bottom of both the jersey and shorts were modified to allow for full range of motion.
“When you look and feel good, you play good,” said Draymond Green. “I welcome any competitive advantage on the court and the new Nike NBA uniforms deliver on the feedback that we’ve provided.”
Built on a refined version of the Nike Aeroswift basketball chassis, each uniform is comprised of a combination of Alpha Yarns and recycled polyester (each athlete uniform represents approximately 20 recycled PET bottles). The uniforms wick sweat 30 percent faster than current NBA uniforms.
Coinciding with the introduction of the new uniforms, the NBA is eliminating its “Home” and “Road” uniform designations. Beginning with the 2017-18 season, home teams will pick which of their uniforms will be worn at all home games and visiting teams will choose a contrasting uniform within their own assortment.
Because of this change, Nike and the NBA worked together to create four core uniforms for each team, classified as “editions,” which draw from the heritage of the NBA and its respective franchises.
The first two editions of the NBA uniforms, which will be introduced by teams this summer and will make their on-court debut at the start of the season, are the Association and Icon editions. The two remaining core uniforms, inspired by the mindset of the NBA athlete and the communities that support their teams, respectively, will be revealed in the coming months.
The Association Edition represents the traditional home white uniform. The Icon Edition, previously known as the road uniform, will utilize each team’s traditional primary color.
Also this season, eight NBA teams will have a Classic Edition uniform that will be available in the fall. The Classic Edition celebrates some of the most iconic uniforms in league history and can be worn at each team’s discretion. Complementing the new uniform editions, Nike will also unveil a new on-court collection, including tights and socks.
Photos courtesy Nike
