Nike’s Summer 2021 N7 Collection Encompasses Representation

Because cultural roots are such an integral part of one’s identity, Nike is diving into the backgrounds of three Indigenous athletes for its Summer 2021 N7 collection: Lyle Thompson, Lauren Schad, and Kyrie Irving.

The footwear collection includes the Dunk Low, Air Zoom Type, and Kyrie Low 4. All will be available for customization through the Nike By You platform for a personal touch by the wearer. The collection also features an apparel offering, complete with t-shirts, a windbreaker, shorts, and hat. They all draw elements from the three footwear silhouettes, such as color scheme and stitch inspiration.

Lyle Thompson, from the Onondaga Nation, creates a purple scheme for his Dunk Low. He taps into his and his brothers’ traditional hairstyles, as well as the Iroquois Confederacy flag and wampum art for added creative elements. “My hope for anyone wearing the Dunk is to sense the Indigenous trait of resiliency. We’re a resilient people,” says Thompson.

Volleyball player Lauren Schad’s Air Zoom Type takes inspiration from the Cheyenne River Lakota Nation. She incorporates colors of the medicine wheel and porcupine quill art into the silhouette, giving homage to her tribe. As for the Kyrie Low 4, the Brooklyn Net point guard hopes to portray his love for his Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. His star quilt, inspired by his naming ceremony, provides lead colorful graphics on the shoe.

Nike’s partnership with organizations like Thompson’s 4 the Future Foundation, Women In Nike, Serena Design Crew and Nike x Design, allow for these values to shine through creatively. The N7 program supports North American Indigenous youth by providing educational, professional and medical services, as well as healthy mentorship.