John Kim Nike just teased the return of GYAKUSOU for Holiday 2026, one of the most influential performance-meets-culture projects of the last two decades.
In a recent published article featuring Nike’s Martin Lotti, a box with “GYAKUSOU HO26” is in clear sight, and its inclusion seems deliberately visible. Its last project came in 2021 around the Vaporfly and has been dormant since, but it appears as if a revival has been in the works for some time in preparation of a relaunch at the end of 2026.
A Brief History Of Nike GYAKUSOU
Before running became a cultural movement, Nike and Jun Takahashi had already laid the groundwork. Originally launched in Fall of 2010, GYAKUSOU debuted its iconic stretch jacket in dark blue that has since become a staple throughout the sub-line. GYAKUSOU wasn’t just another collaboration, but rather a purpose-driven system built from Takahashi’s own experience as a runner. Every piece was designed with function first, tested by his Tokyo-based running collective, and refined through real-world use rather than trend cycles.
That authenticity is what set GYAKUSOU apart. At a time when most performance gear leaned heavily into loud, high-visibility aesthetics, Takahashi introduced muted, nature-inspired palettes and thoughtful construction that prioritized movement, comfort, and harmony with the environment. More importantly, it reframed running as less of a competitive sport, but rather as a personal, almost meditative practice. The very name “GYAKUSOU,” meaning “running in reverse,” reflected a mindset of going against the current, both physically and culturally.
GYAKUSOU instantly grew a cult fanbase during the peak “hype” era of must-have drops. It’s odd coloring, Japanese-style fit, and modular approach made it the most unique running apparel collection in sportswear, while its selection of Nike footwear silhouettes went completely against the grain. Eventually, Jun Takahashi’s UNDERCOVER entered the Sportswear realm, delivering era-defining hits with the React Element 87.
Fast forward to today, and the industry has largely caught up to the GYAKUSOU attitude. The blending of performance and lifestyle now defines the market, which is exactly why GYAKUSOU’s return feels less like a comeback and more like a reminder that Takahashi and Nike have been doing it for intention, not aesthetic.
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