Despite the current political climate and revised travel ban that is directly affecting millions of Muslims, Nike is taking a stand against prejudice by creating the Pro Hijab, a performance hijab for Muslim female athletes.
The hijab was designed using lightweight polyester and mesh fabric, which is one of the most breathable fabrics offered by Nike. The fabric’s tiny holes will ensure it remains breathable while the dark-colored hijab remains opaque.
The performance hijab, which took 13 months to design, was created after Emirati Olympic weightlifter Amna Al Haddad visited Nike’s global headquarters and told them that she only had one hijab that worked for her during competitions. Emirati figure skater Zahra Lari, who has tried out the Pro Hijab, is already a big fan.
Just last month, Nike released a controversial video entitled “What will they say about you?” that featured Middle Eastern female athletes. The video was apparently a tease of the new Pro Hijab by the brand.
We are so excited that Nike is not only ensuring full representation of all athletes, regardless of religion, but also standing in solidarity with Muslim female athletes during a time when Muslim representation is needed more than ever.
The Pro Hijab will be released in spring 2018.