Innovation meets tradition for the 10th anniversary of the Nike N7 collection. Collaborating with Pendleton Woolen Mills, Nike graphic designer Tracie Jackson created a custom “storm” pattern based on traditional Navajo narrative tapestry. The uniquely American design is showcased on the N7 x Pendleton 7 Generations blanket, brought back to the collaboration for the first time since 2013. The pattern also appears on the Nike Air Moc N7, Air Force 1 ’07 N7, Air Zoom Pegasus 36 N7, Air Jordan 8 Retro N7, and Zoom Heritage N7.
Tracie Jackson learned traditional Navajo weaving techniques from her great-grandmother Phoebe Nez, a member of the Black Streaked Wood People clan of the Navajo Nation (“Tsi’naajinii”). “My great-grandmother was still weaving right up until she passed at 92,” says Jackson. “My beginnings with looms, rugs and blankets all started with my grandmother. First, I learned by herding her sheep on her farm, then by carding and spinning the wool and finally working the loom. Without my great-grandmother, I wouldn’t have learned about my culture, and without my culture, I wouldn’t have been a designer. My family ties are what influence my native identity.”
The N7 x Pendleton Collection drops November 7 on nike.com and at select retailers.
