In-Depth Preview: Nike Pro Combat Bowl Uniforms

I made a point of trying to get pictures of the new Nike Pro Combat bowl uniforms up yesterday as soon as possible, since people were champing at the bit to get a look. But now it’s a day later and I have some much better shots to work with, as well as the time to go into a little more detail. While the looks of the three new uniforms (TCU’s is technically a remixed version of the Pro Combat uniform they wore earlier this year) aren’t all that different than what the teams typically wear, it’s the technology and construction that was meant to be the game-changer, even if that flew under the radar a bit yesterday.

The two main focuses of the uniforms are minimizing weight and maximizing breathability, accomplished through strategically placed seams, pads and cooling zones to streamline the apparel, and the introduction of some special Nike materials. Nike Pro Deflex padding emphasizes two-way airflow in order to shed sweat from the body while cooling the player. The jersey’s four-way stretch woven twill construction also wicks away moisture, while the Flywire collar reduces excessive fabric and improves ventilation, also stabilizing the jersey.

Nike Pro Deflex padding again appears in the hip and knee areas, smoothly integrated into the pant to reduce bulk without reducing protection. The base layer sports a removable carbon fiber plate for enhanced yet customizable added protection, while the all-important area above the knees and below the shoulders—dubbed the “hit zone” by Nike—features additional padding and protection while remaining slimmed down and light.

The shoes—Nike Air Zoom Alpha Talons—are said to be the most advanced football cleat ever created by Nike, and are really deserving of their own article. So I wrote one.

Tagged as: Nike Pro Combat