Rafael Nadal is a tennis legend, no doubt about it, and even though he’s been struggling with some injuries lately, he’s still one of the world’s most appreciated professional tennis players, as he is currently ranked at no.5 worldwide. Moreover, Nadal is regarded as the best clay-court player in history thanks to his incredible success on this particular surface, which is why he has been titled “The King of Clay.” Since we’re talking about a professional, it makes sense for Rafael to use only the highest quality equipment during his matches, especially when it comes to shoes and apparel.
Being one of the world’s top manufacturers of footwear, apparel and equipment, Nike was an obvious choice as a clothing and shoe sponsor. The most recent Rafael Nadal Collection includes a set of impressive shirts, shoes, shorts, socks, jackets and hats that you should definitely keep an eye out for if you want to keep up with your favorite tennis player. Below you will find the best Rafael Nadal on-court looks for the French Open, all of which were created by Nike.
Shirts
NikeCourt Challenger Premier Rafa Crew
Breathable, light and comfortable, the NikeCourt Challenger Premier Rafa Crew is a perfect choice for serious tennis players, as it incorporates Nike’s AeroReact technology. This tech increases airflow when the wearer sweats and shuts it down when he cools down, and this adaptable, breathable performance allows for a cooler, drier and more comfortable playing experience. Furthermore, a series of underarm gussets and a split hem support a natural range of movement, while a series of laser perforations on the back further improve ventilation for a plus of comfort during warm-weather matches. This shirt was created using Dri-FIT 78% polyester and 22% nylon.
NikeCourt Dry Rafa Rafa
Alternatively, you could go for the more casual-looking NikeCourt Dry Rafa Rafa men’s T-shirt, which honors Rafael Nadal through a series of print graphics applied across the chest. The shirt is available in Dark Grey Heather, and it was created using Dri-FIT 75% polyester, 13% cotton and 12% rayon. It features a rib crew neck with interior taping, and it provides a balanced mix of comfort and performance.
Shorts
NikeCourt Gladiator Premier 7″
When it comes to shorts, the NikeCourt Gladiator Premier 7″ men’s tennis shorts are irreproachable, and that’s because they allow the wearer to move freely while remaining cool during the most demanding matches. The product was created using a four-way stretch fabric, and it boasts laser-cut perforations as well as a mesh-lined stretch waist that improves breathability. The fabric composition includes Dri-FIT 86% polyester and 14% spandex, while a 7” inseam was designed specifically to facilitate tennis movements.
Shoes
NikeCourt Lunar Ballistec 1.5
Moving on to footwear alternatives, we’re looking at the NikeCourt Lunar Ballistec 1.5, which impresses with a full-length Lunarlon midsole and Flywire cables. The midsole provides protection against impacts, while the Flywire cables wrap around the foot and integrate nicely with the laces for great support and a dynamic fit. We should also mention the Nike Drag-On technology that ensures reliable lateral support, especially when the wearer performs rapid directional moves. Other highlights include a synthetic leather and mesh upper with perforations, an XDR outsole, flex grooves and a herringbone pattern.
NikeCourt Lunar Ballistec 1.5 Legend
The NikeCourt Lunar Ballistec 1.5 Legend represents a great alternative, particularly if you’re looking for a shoe that pays tribute to Rafael Nadal and his noble goal to earn the title in Paris, France. Apart from its eye-catching blue colorway and unique details, this shoe performs just like the regular NikeCourt Lunar Ballistec 1.5, as it includes the same Lunarlon cushioning, XDR outsole, Dynamic Flywire tech and Drag-On features.
Socks
NikeCourt Elite Crew Tennis Socks
Wearing the wrong pair of socks during a tennis match can result in poor performance and even damage, which is why you should always aim for high-end offerings such as the NikeCourt Elite Crew Tennis Socks. This product was created using Dri-FIT 35% polyester, 34% cotton, 24% nylon and 3% spandex, and it boasts zoned cushioning that ensures impact protection were you need it the most. The textured, anti-slip knit pattern offers extra traction, while an arch compression design guarantees a supportive fit. The socks were designed individually for the right and left foot, and they include reinforced heel and toe areas.
Jackets
NikeCourt Premier Rafa Men’s Tennis Jacket
The NikeCourt Premier Rafa Men’s Tennis Jacket is undoubtedly one of the best products of its kind. It was designed to keep the wearer dry and comfortable on the court, which is why its body was put together using Dri-FIT 89% recycled polyester and 11% spandex. As for the panels, they feature Dri-FIT 97% polyester and 3% spandex, while the lining is Dri-FIT 100% polyester. Other details include zip pockets that ensure secure storage for various essentials, as well as elastic rib cuffs and raglan sleeves.
Handbands and Hats
Nike Headband and the Rafa Premier Featherlight Adjustable Tennis Hat
When it comes to accessories, the Nike Headband and the Rafa Premier Featherlight Adjustable Tennis Hat are each perfect in their own way. The headband comes in a variety of colors and is able to keep hair and sweat out of the player’s eyes thanks to three layers of sweat-wicking and absorbent fabrics. Highlights include a Swoosh design trademark at the center, an open-ended construction for a personalized fit, as well as a fabric composition of Dri-FIT 84% polyester and 16% elastane for Side 1. The middle layer is 100% cotton, while Side 2 is made of 70% modal and 30% cotton.
The Rafa Premier Featherlight Adjustable Tennis Hat features a six-panel design with interior taping, as well as a series of laser-perforated vents for extra breathability. The reflective strap with the VELCRO fastener at the back is also a plus, not to mention the high-quality Dri-FIT fabric. The body, bill and vents are Dri-FIT 100% polyester, and the sweatband is Dri-FIT 91% polyester and 9% spandex.
