Nike’s Japanese Skateboarding Kits for the 2024 Paris Olympics
As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, Nike SB has revealed its cutting-edge designs for the skateboarding kits of Team Japan.
Collaboration with Alexis Sablone
The creative force behind the Team Japan skateboarding kits is Alexis Sablone, a renowned skater and designer. Sablone has infused the collection with both practical features and artistic elements. Her designs for the uniforms are not just about performance; they are a celebration of Japanese culture and the spirit of skateboarding.
Sablone has woven Japanese cultural motifs throughout the collection. The koi fish, a recurring symbol, represents perseverance and transformation. These motifs are intricately integrated into the designs, adding depth and meaning to the uniforms. The cherry blossom, another significant symbol, is used to depict the beauty and transient nature of life, mirroring the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of skateboarding.
Design Highlights
The centerpiece of the collection is the Nike SB Dri-FIT ADV Short-Sleeve Jersey. This jersey features sweat-wicking fabric designed to keep athletes cool and comfortable during intense competitions. The jersey’s design incorporates thematic touches such as a woven patch displaying Mount Fuji, koi fish, and cherry blossoms—symbols of strength, growth, and transformation. These elements reflect the resilience and creativity of Japanese skaters, who have been making waves in the global skateboarding scene.
courtesy of Nike
Additional pieces in the collection include bowler shirts, overalls with double-front knee panels, tees, denim caps, and cushioned crew socks. The collection also features both plain and graphic-heavy pieces, catering to the diverse styles and preferences of skaters.
courtesy of Nike
Performance Meets Style
Nike SB’s collaboration with Sablone demonstrates a perfect marriage of style and performance. The use of advanced materials like moisture-wicking fabrics ensures that the athletes remain comfortable and focused, while the robust construction of the apparel addresses the physical demands of skateboarding. The collection not only meets the technical requirements of Olympic-level competition but also allows skaters to express their individuality.
Availability and Pricing
Nike SB’s Team Japan collection is now available online and in select stores. The prices range from ¥9,680 JPY (about $62 USD) for items like the Fleece Pullover Hoodie to ¥22,330 JPY (about $142 USD) for the Dri-FIT ADV Short-Sleeve Jersey.
Yohji Yamamoto designs Japan's 2024 kits with striking flame motifs.