The men’s kit features a sleeveless top in red, white, and blue, paired with snug blue shorts. The image released for the women’s kit, however, showcases a pink outfit that resembles a bathing suit. Pics of the attire clinging to mannequins quickly did the rounds on social media, with the women’s outfit under particular fire for its overexposure. One individual wrote a comment expressing disapproval: “I’m sorry, but show me one WNBA or NWSL team who would enthusiastically support this kit.
This is for Olympic Track and Field. Professional athletes should be able to compete without dedicating brain space to constant pube vigilance or the mental gymnastics of having every vulnerable piece of your body on display. This is not an elite athletic kit for track and field. This is a costume born of patriarchal forces that are no longer welcome or needed to get eyes on women’s sports.
I’m queer and I’m attracted to female bodies but I don’t expect or enjoy seeing female athletes or male athletes put in a position to battle self-consciousness at their place of work. This is not part of the job description.” The backlash continued on social media, with one person asking: “Why do women have to compete nearly naked?” In a statement to The Guardian, a spokesperson for the USA track and field team said, “Athlete options and choices were the driving force for USATF in the planning process with Nike”.
Nike reported that it would have tailors available for the team this year. In a range consisting of 50 outfits and 12 competition styles, athletes will also be able to choose from unitards that come with briefs and shorts. Several countries are opting for more modest selections amidst the ongoing debate on revealing sports uniforms. Gymnasts in New Zealand are now allowed to wear shorts or leggings on top of their leotards.
