Nike spreads body-positivity through new mannequins
As a new marketing move, Nike introduced its new plus-size and para-sport mannequins at its London flagship store. Though Nike’s choice to be more inclusive was praised, it didn’t take long for critics to express their opinions on the new additions.
One of the most vocal critics was British journalist Tanya Gold who was so bothered by the mannequins to wrote an op-ed for The Telegraph. In “Obese mannequins are selling a dangerous lie,” Gold described the plus-size retail dolls as “immense, gargantuan, vast.” She then wrote that
Why people, who tell overweight women that they need to work out more, are also complaining that Nike is now advertising workout gear for plus-size women wanting to get in shape is puzzling. However, the athletic retailer isn’t making any plans to cater to those who take issue with the mannequins.
“With the incredible momentum in women’s sport right now, the redesigned space [at NikeTown London] is just another demonstration of Nike’s commitment to inspiring and serving the female athlete,” said Sarah Hannah, Nike’s general manager and vice president for women in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Hopefully, with Nike’s new inclusive product line, other sportswear companies follow suit and show that you don’t need to already be skinny to be advertised to.