This year the U.S. Women’s National Team will be kitted out in eco-friendly jerseys, shorts and socks made from recycled polyester thanks to Nike.
The athletic leader designed the integrated soccer cleat collection for a lower environmental impact—the gear is made from recycled plastic bottles melted down to make a fine yarn used to create the fabric.
Since 2010, Nike said it has diverted more than 2 billion plastic bottles (enough to cover 3,500 football fields) from landfills and converted it into the eco-fiber.
Each kit is made from roughly 18 recycled bottles, and by using the refashioned fiber Nike is reducing the energy consumed during manufacturing by as much as 30 percent compared to using virgin polyester.
Beyond the lesser environmental impact, the new uniforms are designed with 3-D body mapping for a women’s specific fit that maximizes natural movement, comfort and performance. The 16 percent lighter weight than previous kits also contributes to increased speed and comfort, and a breakthrough cooling system regulates the athlete’s temperature. Nike’s Dri-FIT technology draws perspiration away from the body to the gear’s exterior where it promptly evaporates and laser-cut side holes and strategic mesh paneling increase air circulation and thermoregulation.
“We see the combination of the new uniform and footwear collection as an expression of our commitment to both performance innovation and style,” said Martin Lotti, global creative director for Nike Soccer.
Nike is offering the women’s specific uniform in men’s sizes for the first time, and the jerseys for men, women and youth are currently available in stores and on nike.com.
