OK so I've been aware of the Nike 6.0 stuff for quite some time...
I came across these blog articles tonight:
http://blog.defgrip.net/archives/3577
http://blog.defgrip.net/archives/3561
The second one moreso for the comments on the article.
Got me thinking... what does everyone here think of Nike getting into BMX? And for that case "alternative sports" in general (skateboarding, etc).
Personally, I look at it as a double bladed sword. They are one of the largest and most recognizable companies/brands in the world. I see the involvement as advantageous for several reasons:
-A major company has taken notice of the sport and is getting involved
-They appear to be committed to it. They have a fairly large line of shoes and other apparel, are sponsoring riders & events, and are putting out a video.
-In regards to the above points, it is bringing more money and exposure to it. If the sport grows, we all win.
However, at the same time I find this all rather hard to swallow, given this is coming from a company who for a long time, was synonymous with the term "sweatshop". I find it disconcerting that a company known for exploiting third world child labor is starting to encroach on a grassroots sport driven primarily by the younger generations.
Also, personally, when buying shoes and apparel, I would rather my money be going to companies that have deep roots in the industry and have been committed to it for a long time than a company that (in my mind) is just jumping on the bandwagon of another market.
</soapbox>
I came across these blog articles tonight:
http://blog.defgrip.net/archives/3577
http://blog.defgrip.net/archives/3561
The second one moreso for the comments on the article.
Got me thinking... what does everyone here think of Nike getting into BMX? And for that case "alternative sports" in general (skateboarding, etc).
Personally, I look at it as a double bladed sword. They are one of the largest and most recognizable companies/brands in the world. I see the involvement as advantageous for several reasons:
-A major company has taken notice of the sport and is getting involved
-They appear to be committed to it. They have a fairly large line of shoes and other apparel, are sponsoring riders & events, and are putting out a video.
-In regards to the above points, it is bringing more money and exposure to it. If the sport grows, we all win.
However, at the same time I find this all rather hard to swallow, given this is coming from a company who for a long time, was synonymous with the term "sweatshop". I find it disconcerting that a company known for exploiting third world child labor is starting to encroach on a grassroots sport driven primarily by the younger generations.
Also, personally, when buying shoes and apparel, I would rather my money be going to companies that have deep roots in the industry and have been committed to it for a long time than a company that (in my mind) is just jumping on the bandwagon of another market.
</soapbox>