Nike Sportswear Spring 20:
Collection Overview
As the first release of the new decade Nike hasn’t shied away from presenting their ideas for the future through their SP20 collection. Heritage inspired graphics that nod to the brand’s rich history have been proudly incorporated for a retro touch that has been present through previous seasons, whilst striking new footwear designs, such as the React Vision, perfectly showcase one side to Nike’s creative approach that focuses on pushing the boundaries of traditional design.
Dedicated to representing their fans of past and present, the latest designs from Nike are fuelled by sportswear fans and sneakerheads alike who remain at the core of the company and are as diverse as the brand’s design style. At a more casual level than Nike’s activewear clothing designs that encourage everyday movement and cater to some of the world's best athletes, the inclusion of practical performance materials remains throughout apparel and accessories within the Nike Sportswear line but at a level that is suited to streetwear as opposed to intense levels of movement.
In recent releases the artwork from Nike Sportswear has grown ever more playful and experimental whilst continually referencing various eras within the brand’s history; whether it’s a nod to their dedicated sneakerheads, associated urban culture or the impact of their designs during the ‘90s. For this season it’s the marathon runners that are in the spotlight which coincides with the annual Air Max day that took place on 26th March as a celebration of the groundbreaking Air technology. As the Airathon T-Shirt presents, Air technology was introduced through the famous Nike ‘Moon Shoe’ in 1972. It goes without saying that the Nike Swoosh tick logo is included throughout the collection and experimentations with its application can be seen across the Icon Futura Wash T-Shirt through a large screen printed design against a cotton base that has had vintage style wash treatment and the classic Club T-Shirt which has a small embroidered emblem on the chest. Additionally, a stitched design can also be found on the Stripe T-Shirt which has been refreshed for spring in a variety of colourways that present Nike’s own take on a timeless striped tee that has its place within any wardrobe throughout the year.
Demonstrating how their own archive isn’t just influential to their dedicated fan base but also to their own design team, Nike regularly delves into their own archive to inform new designs and to recreate some of their best loved original styles. A great example of this is the Windrunner Jacket, a key 1970’s inspired layering piece for SS20 that has a lightweight water-resistant nylon outer, zip through design and fully adjustable hood. Whether you’re travelling, commuting or seeking a go-to to wear when the weather can’t make up its mind, this jacket is an essential for the transitional periods between seasons and works to keep you cool and protected through a classic sportswear inspired design. Similarly, the Heritage86 Futura Cap also takes note from a vintage design and presents multicoloured Swoosh tick logos across the crown in tones of orange, purple and green for a playful finish that adds a burst of energy to your everyday. Made from a moisture wicking Dri-FIT fabric and boasting the well-known ‘Just Do It’ slogan which remains an encouraging phrase for a variety of Nike sportswear campaigns, the AW84 2000 Cap carries a futuristic aesthetic that nods to the space style fashions of the 2000s with printed grid side panels, neon green piping and reflective lettering which is sure to appeal to anyone favouring the future as opposed to the past.
As far as footwear goes for spring, this is where the real innovation lies. There’s an abundance of both old school and contemporary designs on offer to capture Nike’s position within being one of the most influential brands in history and a key figure in the future of the industry. The most striking design of the release is the React Vision, a new footwear style that has been introduced for 2020 that incorporates influences from the React Sertu Shoes from the same design family and a heavy amount of detailing and materials to reflect inspiration from Alebrijes - brightly coloured mythical creatures imagined by Mexico folk artist Pedro Linares. Whether it’s the transparent 3D heel clip, the seamless mesh upper or decorative lacing system, the React Vision offers premium comfort within a highly experimental design that is sure to catch the attention of anyone who is drawn to expressive shoe styles.
There’s never any saying where each year will take Nike, who continually release a multitude of unexpected and exclusive collaborative releases across both footwear and apparel in partnership with influencers from a variety of industries. What is certain however is that the designs will continue to be created with a strong focus on quality, practicality and style which ensures Nike maintain their reputation as one the largest globally recognised brands whose design team is compiled of an array of innovators and game changers - much like their rota of professional athletes. With the Tokyo 2020 Olympics now postponed, there is no doubt that the energy that was built in preparation for this summer will continue to build and rise, resulting in a flow through to 2021 that will support a year of momentous change.
Shop all Nike Sportswear at Always in Colour.
Back to the Blog
