Nike Pulls Balaclava Following Accusations of Promoting Gang Culture
Following backlash, Nike has pulled its balaclava, a piece of headgear designed to cover the majority of the face, from its shelves. Those opposed to the selling of the item insist that the company is promoting and profiting from gang culture.
Nike showcased the balaclava on a black male model, which also raised further concerns pertaining to racial stereotypes.
“These products were part of a wider Nike Training collection, styled on different models and available in multiple markets around the world,” a Nike spokesperson told The Independent. “We are in no way condoning or encouraging the serious issue of criminal and gang culture.”
Some in favor of the item have come forward to point out that it is designed to protect the face while skiing and/or training in the cold. Nonetheless, the way in which Nike marketed the balaclava is still being looked at as problematic.
For more on the story, visit The Independent.
In other Nike news, the brand is on pace for $50 billion in revenue by 2023.