Nike Pro Hijab makes its debut on the Fashion Forward Dubai runway

The National -- While Nike’s high-performance hijab will not be available in-store until spring 2018, Mashael Al Rajhi incorporated the Nike Pro Hijab in her collection at Fashion Forward Dubai on October 28.

The Saudi Arabian designer is known for mixing streetwear with high-end fashion, and accordingly, paired the lightweight and competition-worthy hijab with rich, free-flowing fabrics with royal blue and silver crepe-like trims, as well as Nike Air Force 1 sneakers.

The hijab, which was in development for over a year before it launched in March, has been created in consultation with and tested by athletes including UAE-based weightlifter Amna Al Haddad and Emirati figure skater Zahra Lari.

The design is constructed from durable, single-layer Nike Pro power mesh, which features strategically placed holes for optimal breathability while remaining completely opaque. The elongated back ensures it doesn’t come undone, while fluff threads at the neck eliminate the rubbing and irritation that can occur when an athlete sweats.

“The Nike Pro Hijab is the perfect extension for my collection, as it symbolises femininity and independence - values that I believe are more essential than ever for women today,” said Al Rajhi.

Al Rajhi also personalised the white trainers with the word “qiada”, the Arabic term for leadership, which she said “symbolises my journey with Nike beautifully. The company is a leader in breaking barriers and fighting stereotypes. These are the values that I aim to reflect in every piece of work I create.”