As athletes prepare for the Paris Olympics with the return of live spectators, controversy emerges over the U.S. team’s Nike uniforms, spurring debate about design and functionality in women’s sports attire.
Athletes preparing for the Paris Olympics are set to compete in front of live audiences, a welcome change after previous Games affected by COVID-19 restrictions. Athletes like Alise Willoughby, a BMX rider, and rhythmic gymnast Evita Griskenas have expressed their excitement for the return of spectators, anticipating a more dynamic and interactive competition environment. This shift marks a hopeful return to normalcy after the pandemic-induced disruptions that resulted in isolated competitions and rigorous health protocols.
Meanwhile, controversy has arisen in the U.S concerning the official track and field uniforms provided by Nike for the upcoming Games. Athletes have voiced concerns over the uniforms being too revealing and not sufficiently functional for competition. High-profile athletes including Colleen Quigley and Lauren Fleshman have criticized the design for not adequately supporting athletes’ performance needs. In response, Nike has offered additional options like unitards with briefs and shorts, and has committed to providing tailoring services to ensure the outfits fit well across all body types. This development continues the ongoing debate regarding the design and functionality of women’s sports attire on the international stage.
