Nike introduces 'Pro Combat Recovery Hypertight'

The human body’s ability to bounce back from the many rigors sport throws its way is a fascinating science.

Nike is introducing its first product specifically designed to assist the recovery process, the Nike Pro Combat Recovery Hypertight. The tight was developed based on insight from athletes, scientists, physiologists and coaches, and from data from the Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL).

RECOVERY INNOVATION

The Nike Pro Combat Recovery Hypertight is designed to be worn away from competition, during 'active recovery' - while the body is moving, but not competing or engaged in intense excercise. The graduated compression provided by its advanced design targets specific zones of the leg, aiding recovery.

“Our research led us to conclude that graduated compression can help impact recovery,” said Eddy Harber, Nike Innovation Design Director who concentrates on apparel. “Our new Nike Recovery Hypertight has been developed and tested with some of the top athletes and teams around the world, across multiple sports.”

ATHLETE INSIGHT

For decades, athletes have been looking for effective recovery solutions – using ice baths, compression wraps and muscle ointments. The ongoing grind of training lasts 365 days a year for top athletes, with official seasons stretching out for months.  Bodies are tested; muscles maxed out, especially in the legs.

Top athletes across multiple sports, including basketball star LeBron James, were involved in the testing and development of the Nike Recovery Hypertight, providing crucial feedback.

“It helps my performance in the simple fact that I am able to recover from game to game, and I am able to get back to feeling great before the game starts and during the game,” said LeBron James.

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

Designer Eddy Harber worked with a core team on the testing and development of the Nike Recovery Hypertight for more than 18 months.  After identifying the challenge of helping athletes to recover faster, the team searched for a solution.

The team followed the insight that compression helps reduce swelling, which can aid muscle recovery. After many different prototypes and comprehensive testing, the Nike design team had just what they were after: a comfortable, graduated compression fit that reduces muscle swelling by putting pressure exactly where it’s needed.

The amount of compression provided by the power grid pattern creates a smooth transition down the leg, with compression firmest at the ankle, where swelling can be most severe.

The Nike Pro Combat Recovery Hypertight will be available globally on Nike.com and select retail locations beginning February 3.

Nike