John Kim Golf is a unique sport. It’s a game typically described as an old man’s activity with some rather strict and archaic rules and regulations, and most of its viewers are nearing retirement. But golf is currently dominated by a fairly young talent pool, and on a casual level a good chunk of its participants are in the age range similar to the game’s best. Patrick Reed, last year’s Masters Tournament winner, is just 28. Brooks Koepka, who took home the U.S. Open and PGA Championship last year, is also a 90s baby. Francesco Molinari, the first Italian to win a major, is 36. If the game is going to continue its youth movement, Nike wants to be a reason why.
The Swoosh’s ongoing quest to inject youth into this global sport is highlighted with its upcoming 2019 footwear and apparel collection – one that hones in on thoughtful design cues that today’s detail-oriented sneaker and fashion fanatics have no leniency on. For the four majors, Nike has readied a highly impressive assortment of gear – each inspired by the legendary golf course that serves as the stage for these events. The upcoming Masters collection is a full-fledged tribute to Augusta, with green snakeskin representing the fear-inducing yet fragile snakes that are rife throughout the green. The chrome-esque finish on the soles are inspired by the reflections from the course’s many ponds – a common sight when crossing bridges. Finally, the “prayer hands” are a nod to the Amen Corner, perhaps the most iconic three-hole stretches in all of golf.
The sport has been around for a century, and there’s work to be done in order to repeat that longevity. It’ll take a lot of moving factors to change the way a game is played and consumed, and Nike understands its role – to create product that not only honors its rich history, but adds enough disruption to catalyze that change.
The Nike Golf “Masters” Collection will release on April 8th; the Air Jordan 11 Low will release on April 12th. Stay tuned as full collections for the other three majors will be revealed soon.
Update: Nike golf has put out a statement saying, “Due to unforeseen circumstances, the “Snake Pack” footwear styles will no longer be available for sale. However, Nike Golf athletes will still wear the “Snake Pack” next week.”
Nike Golf Masters Collection
Release Date: April 8th, 2019
Jordan Release Date: April 12th, 2019
Nike Air Max 1 Golf ($140)
Nike Roshe Golf Tour ($130)
Nike React Vapor 2 ($195)
Nike Zoom Victory Tour ($200)
Nike Tour Premiere ($225)
Air Jordan 11 Low ($200)
Where to Buy
- Nike Coming Soon
