We don’t exactly put a lot of apparel on the front page. Textiles don’t move the needle the way titanium or even leather (or synthetic and mesh) does, but today we’re making an exception.
Why?
If it hasn’t already been made obvious enough, 2016 is the year in which Nike Golf is going to push boundaries, defy conventions, or whatever other euphemistic phrase you prefer for release some non-traditional, weird stuff.
Basic chronology dictates that Michelle Wie’s Blazer high tops should be Exhibit A, but the new Enemies of the Course collection is arguably Nike Golf’s most subversive release yet.
The latest additions to Nike’s more casual and suitable for off-course wear Club Collection pay tribute to golf’s unsung heroes; greenskeepers, superintendents, and everyone else who protects our courses from the myriad of invaders that could overrun a golf course if left unchecked. Geese, snakes, dandelions, and twelve other assorted weeds and creatures are all featured in Nike’s new and unquestionably distinctive print.
To the best of my knowledge, my home course (shameless plug for McGregor Links) doesn’t have an armadillo problem, but I certainly appreciate the tireless work the grounds staff does to help keep everything looking and playing great Whether or not this particular blend of Nike’s Golf custom print and street-style influences is the appropriate tribute isn’t really for me to say.
The Enemies of the Course collection is unquestionably different. You guys get to decide if it’s different-good, or different-terrible.
The 2016 Club Collection includes the signature polo, a casual raglan polo (which runs about 1/2 size small – either that or I got fat(ter) over the winter), an indescribably soft feather fleece cardigan (I want to cuddle it), a coach’s jacket, and a non-denim selvage pant. According to Nike, all are designed for off-course style with on-course functionality.
Wear it here, wear it there, wear it everywhere.
Bucket and AW84 hats are also available in both black (boring) and the new, and yet somehow already iconic, Enemies of the Course print.
Maybe It’s Not Crazy
I had a chance to preview the Enemies of the Course collection (along with Nike’s new and only slightly more traditional 2016 apparel lineup) at an event last month in Los Angeles. From my admittedly narrow golf-centric viewpoint it all seemed a bit odd, but the lifestyle media guys on-hand were generally impressed and excited, as were the Nike Golf athletes who took part in a panel discussion after the unveiling.
The new stuff is different, perhaps even radically non-traditional, but in speaking with Nike staffer, Brooks Koepka, I came to realize that the modern athlete might see it differently.
Practical, comfortable, and to the modern eye, stylish.
I suspect there’s a serious generational component at play here, and the Enemies of the Course collection definitely trends younger, but is’t that always the case with new trends? Said Koepka, “Style changes all the time. It’s always evolving, just like your golf game”.
Look for the entire Enemies of the Course collection on Nike.com.
You Tell Us
We absolutely want to know what you think about Nike’s Enemies of the Course collection. Share your thoughts in the comment section below, and if you think it’s relevant, include your age.
Raymond
8 years ago
I like the general direction of Nike.
I am in my 50’s with daughters that “know” that I am going golfing and not elsewhere based on the way I dress (in accordance with the old-fashion coutry club “dress code”).
IMO…to grow the game, we have to engage the younger generation and continually progress forward while maintaining respect and reasonable “price-tag”.