The 2024 Paris Olympics are set to take place in July 2024 and trials for the event are already underway. Nike recently unveiled the track and field kits designed by them for Team USA and Team Kenya which will be worn by the sportspeople representing their respective countries. The Team USA kit, bathed in shades of red and blue, is what has drawn the ire of social media.
As seen in Citius Magazine's X post, the men's uniform included an incut sleeveless tank top and thigh-length fitted shorts but the women's uniform was far less conservative. The sleeveless suit had a high neckline on top but at the featured deep incut leg cutouts. Not only was the distinction in the design of men's and women's uniform plainly visible, social media users were quick to label it "patriarchal" and "misogynistic". In comparison, the Team Kenya women's uniforms, which were also designed by Nike, featured thigh-length shorts and a sleeveless sports bra.
(Also Read: After Emma Stone Was Sewn Into Her LV Dress, The Internet Weighs In: "Even Her Zipper Is Bursting With Pride")
Online commentors shared their thoughts on Team USA's women's uniform; from which gender they presume designed the kit to it resembling more of a swimsuit than a track suit.
After the controversy took over the internet, Nike went on to issue a statement, relayed by Yahoo! News, which said that this kit in particular was one of their many options for the sportspeople and that feedback from athletes was a part of the process when developing their products.
(Also Read: Giant Fake Lashes On A Train? This Brand Took Sky-High To A New Level For Their Campaign)
