Phaidon x Nike: The Fashion Odyssey of Female Athletes

You thought Nike only made sneakers that cost an arm and a leg? Well, hold on to your laces, because the brand with the comma is now tackling the world of publishing! And not with just anything: a 350-page tome on women's sportswear. Yes, you read that right, 350 pages. It's longer than a marathon, but probably less tiring.

So what do you do when you're the sportswear giant and you want to show off a little? You team up with Phaidon, the Rolls Royce of publishing houses, to release a book called "Look Good, Feel Good, Play Good: Nike Apparel." Honestly, the title alone makes you want to work out. Or at least buy some leggings.

But wait, this isn't just a glorified catalog of their latest collections. No, no. This is a deep dive into the history of women's sports, seen through the prism of fashion. And when I say deep dive, I mean a deep dive: 575 images, interviews with athletes, coaches, and even texts from cultural commentators. It's like ESPN and Vogue having a baby.

And you know what? This book goes back to the 50s! Imagine: back then, women were doing sports in long skirts and high heels. No, I'm kidding. But not that much, actually.

But beyond the simple history of fashion, this book is about how clothing has made women feel more comfortable in their sport. It's like Nike saying, "Hey, we didn't invent women's sports, but we made them a hell of a lot more comfortable!"

Now the real question: Who's going to buy this thing? Fashionistas in need of inspiration for their next jog? Sports historians? Or maybe athletes who want to show off with a 3-kilogram coffee table book?

Personally, I think it would make a great gift for my friend who does yoga. Or for my mother, who always thinks that working out in jeans is a good idea.

In any case, one thing is for sure: Nike doesn't do things by halves. When they decide to tell the story of women's sportswear, they go all out. Maybe that's the real message of the book: whether you're on the field, in the gym, or... reading a book, give it your all!

So, what do you think? Can you already see yourself leafing through this tome between two CrossFit sessions? Or would you rather save your money to buy yourself the latest pair of Air Jordans? I know what I'm choosing. But hey, if Nike ever needs someone to write volume 2, I'm available. For sports science, of course.

And don't forget, the book comes out in December. Just in time to put it under your aunt's Christmas tree who Nordic walks on Sundays. She'll love it. Or not. But at least it'll make a great laptop stand.