Gyakusou International Running Association
Nike x Undercover Present: Gyakusou International Running Association
Gyakusou takes its name from a small but highly dedicated group of Tokyo-based runners – including Takahashi – who passionately run in their city. The name Gyakusou comes from ‘gyaku’ meaning wrong way or reverse and ‘sou’ meaning ‘run or running’ — a reference to the group running counter-clockwise while the rest of Tokyo’s runners run clockwise in the city’s parks. It draws upon a shared obsession for design innovation and improving the performance of the athlete.
The Gyakusou collection translates Nike’s performance design language by expanding on core appeal with products that deliver innovative, lightweight, waterproof, breathable fabrics and moisture management. This offered Takahashi new challenges and opportunities. “With Undercover we’ve utilized high-tech fabrics before, but through our design partnership with Nike, we were able to create a functional collection that uses cutting edge sporting innovations.
The Stretch Jacket’s laser cut, no sew construction, strategic seam placement and Dri-FIT sweat-off panels are a perfect example of this streamlined rethink. A special watch window on the Fabric Mix Jacket, removable sleeves on the Zip Off Jacket and reversible headwear allow extra expression and an easier wear. The Gyakusou Zoom Spider TT+ running shoe encapsulates Nike’s latest technologies in two unique makeups, with Lunarlite foam, reactive Zoom Air, Flywire support and reflective elements that complement the all-over reflective check options on key apparel in the line.
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(Via Hypebeast)
As a keen runner, UNDERCOVER’s Jun Takahashi designed the “GYAKUSOU” collection in conjunction with sportswear giants Nike. The project actually began last year, with the forthcoming 2010 Fall/Winter collection appearing to faithfully continue the relationship. Designed by the UNDERCOVER Lab, using Nike’s most innovative materials, UNDERCOVER further their “Less but Better” approach with this collaborative project which shall be available soon.
Yesssssssssssss.
Nike Harajuku Flagship by Wonderwall
The design concept for Nike’s first flagship store in Tokyo, which also happens to be the largest in the nation at 946 square meters, is a playing field. It is an experience-based store with facilities such as the Runner’s Studio for selecting shoes that match the individual’s feet and running style and the NIKEiD STUDIO. The interior also expresses the joy of sports by integrating characteristically NIKE items such as the shoes for the chandelier and the waffle molds of the outsoles as a decorative element for a wall. The surrounding environment to the foot traffic flow from the Omotesando street where the store is located has been well considered in the store layout and the interior design resulting in two entrances on both sides of the store.
(Via The Artist & His Model)
Nike City Knife II.
I’m not much a Nike sneaker freaker, but these 100% compressable (see right pic)/foldable joints are a shot of pure polygonal pleasure.
Too bad I’m about 5 years too late - doubt I’ll ever come across a pair of these anywhere.
Nike Air Sock Racer.
For running in your sleep.
