Photo: Nike
Looks like Nike’s recent campaign involving hijabi athletes was a precursor to what’s to come: the Nike Pro-Hijab.
Photo: Nike
The Pro-Hijab was first conceptualized after Olympic weightlifting athlete Amna Al Haddad visited Nike’s Sport Research Lab and lamented the lack of sportswear hijabs.
“From there, we worked with Amna and a variety of other athletes to see what they needed and wanted in a performance hijab,” says Global Nike spokeswoman Megan Saalfeld in an interview with Al-Arabiya English.
The Nike Pro-Hijab features a lightweight mesh polyester material for optimum breathability. The breathable material is Nike’s attempt in making the usually stuffy hijab more comfortable, especially when training under sweltering heat. Additionally, the Pro-Hijab is also designed to ensure that the head garment stays in place during strenuous exercise sessions. A feature lacking in a number of hijabs currently available.
According to Nike, the Pro-Hijab has been wear tested by Nike athletes like Emirati figure skater Zahra Lari and Nike+ Run Club Coach Manal Rostom. “Everyday athletes” from around the Middle East also had a hand in assessing the hijabs.
Nike’s Pro-Hijab is a big step in catering to the diverse needs of women worldwide. The brand, after all, has often touted the importance of diversity, and even spoke out against Trump’s travel ban back in February. More recently, Nike also launched a plus size clothing range for curvier women.