Matthew M Williams of ALYX designs Nike training collection

Training apparel is the most basic of sports clothing, stripped of any flash its function is exactly that, pure functionality. 

As limiting as that can sound, in the right hands, the premise can give birth to the exact opposite, as its ripe for evolution and experimentation. Enter Matthew M Williams of ALYX who has gotten the job of designing a training collection for Nike. The collection gives a human touch to a data-driven, purpose-led series of training shirts, trousers, and accessories for men and women.

Building on the NikeLab AAE (Advanced Apparel Exploration) collection of last year, it employs computational design to transform data (in this case, Atlas maps relaying heat and sweat zones as well as motion) into structural patterns that inform a new way of manufacturing training apparel.

“What computational design and computer data can offer is really the future of design. It allows us to see things or take things further than we might otherwise. It helps to create a different perspective that we can build around. Working in tandem — with data and emotion — is super interesting.”  Matthew M Williams

Of course, only data is never enough and its through the mind of Williams its manifested into the opportunistic design, giving an “organic feel” through adding “imperfections” against the sharpness of the computer design. Also, Matthews selection of accessories helps push the collection for broad use. 

“You need functionality in multiple areas in a training collection because we know it won’t only be used in the gym. For example, you need pockets, and you need elements that are detachable and adaptable. Matthew included a towel as part of the collection, which is something that he knew was needed” Kurt Parker, Nike’s VP of Apparel Design

This is another step for Nike to try to connect a younger fan base with their training line, a demographic who traditionally care more about aesthetic looks and lifestyle value, than performance. Though still making up the largest clientele for Nike. Collections like ACG (All Conditions Gear) have successfully crossed performance with lifestyle, and collaborations with Kim Jones and Riccardo Tisci have gone well, but Nike has still lost "coolness" ground from a global perspective to their eternal rival adidas, whose collaborations have made a larger cultural impact than those of Nike. The forthcoming 18-piece collection from Matthew M Williams is sure to shorten that gap between the two sports giants.

The collection consisting of the basic tops and bottoms with various accessories like socks and a towel will be released July 12th.