The New ‘Pro Hijab’ is Introduced by Nike
May 12, 2017
The New ‘Pro Hijab’ is Introduced by Nike
This Wednesday was International Women’s day, and no better day than for Nike to introduce
its new product directed to Muslim Women, the “Nike Pro Hijab”.
The head cover has a single- layer pull- on design made from lightweight polyester. The fabric’s
tiny holes will make it breathable while remaining opaque. It will be available in dark, neutral
colors.
Nike said it began developing the hijab after some female Muslim athletes complained about
wearing a traditional head scarf during competition.
The move comes just weeks after a controversial Nike ad released in the Middle East.
It featured five successful female professionals from different parts of the Arab world pursing
their athletic dreams while a voice asks, "what will they say about you?" It's a rhetorical
question that many young Arab women face if they step out of cultural and traditional norms.
The video went viral with a million of views on social media, prompting a debate over its
message.
It took 13 months to create the design, and the final product will be available for sale in spring
of 2018.
The hijab is already being worn by Emirati figure skater Zahra Lari.
"I was thrilled and a bit emotional to see Nike prototyping a Hijab," Lari said. "I've tried so many
different hijabs for performance, and … so few of them actually work for me. But once I put it
on and took it for a spin on the ice, I was blown away by the fit and the light weight."
This will hopefully bring encouragement to female Muslim athletes to work hard for their
ambitions.