Nike is defending its design of uniforms for the women’s track and field team representing the U.S. at the Paris 2024 Olympics, which have spurred criticism from some female athletes and revived debate over sexism in sports.
The outfits, which Nike unveiled at a special event in Paris and were first posted by digital media company Citius Mag, have a high-cut leg that that barely covers their display mannequin’s groin area. The male version, by contrast, provides significantly more coverage.
Commenting on Citius Mag’s post, steeplechase competitor and Olympian Colleen Quigley wrote, “I mean I still wanna make the team but….” Paralympian Femita Ayanbeku, also a track and field competitor weighed in too, writing, “I’m someone’s mom, I can’t be exposing myself in such ways.”
Added Paralympian and track and field athlete Jaleen Roberts, “This mannequin is standing still and everything’s showing…imagine mid-flight.”
Nike defended the look, saying it had solicited input from Olympic athletes in designing its lineup of uniforms for both the men’s and women’s teams headed to Paris this summer. For the track and field kits, Nike Chief Innovation Officer John Hoke said in a statement that the company offers athletes “a range of silhouettes tailored for various sport disciplines, body types and sizes, prioritizing performance and maximum breathability.”
Male and female track and field athletes have a dozen competition styles to choose from, Nike added, explaining that “athletes can choose outfits that match their style and personal preference without sacrificing comfort during the games in Paris.” The company also said it will offer tailoring options.
