PrimeTime Sports

Back to “Hyper” School With Nike By Julia Burlas Nike has a firm mission statement they stand behind, “provide inspiration and innovation to every athlete.” VYPE had the opportunity to travel to New York and go back to “hyperschool” with Nike. As we traveled back to our school days, Nike provided us a detailed description of their new baselayer line, Nike Pro Combat, and the research and developmental factors that their team puts into each product. After our day back in the classroom, it is safe to say that Nike has a strong dedication to their mission statement and much more. The day started by giving us a glimpse into all of the Nike Pro Combat baselayers that have been created to act as second skin for their athletes. Nike’s overall purpose was to create a product that provided zero distractions for the athlete by regulating body temperature so their focus could be on optimal performance. Through focused research on thermoregulation, physiology, sensory perception and recovery, Nike developed a product line that includes layers that could be Hyperwarm, Hypercool, Hyperstrong or Hypertight. Hyperwarm is engineered for warmth and moisture-wicking with seamless construction that allows for flexibility. On the other hand, Hypercool’s main purpose is to keep athletes dry and comfortable so this layer incorporates ventilation elements with Dri-Fit fabric. Hyperstrong is a sport specific product that includes specific placed padding for impact protection selective to where certain athletes need it most. Hypertight is the layer to be worn during recovery that targets legs with varying pressures to reduce muscle swelling. Steven Jackson, Atlanta Falcons running back, was also on hand to discuss how the consistent Nike product line innovations have enabled him to continue to compete at such a high level. Jackson is competing for his eleventh year and about to surpass 11,000 rushing yards for his career, a testament to how Nike Pro Combat and other product lines are serving their athletes with top-notch gear. Each product Nike produces has undergone in-depth research and development to aid in bettering their athletes performance. The true science that goes into each of Nike’s products continues to show why they are one of the most accredited sports apparel companies out there.