Nike vs. Adidas: Which sports brand will win the battle for designer fashion?

The rivalry between sportswear giants Nike and Adidas is nothing new, but it seems to be taking a new turn thanks to some of the world's biggest fashion houses. In recent months, the two sports manufacturers have doubled down on collaborations of all kinds with the luxury sector, with brands from Louis Vuitton to Gucci through Jacquemus and Balenciaga.

Adidas announced Sunday, May 22, a partnership with the fashion house, Balenciaga.

When presenting the brand's spring 2023 collection in New York, creative director Demna Gvasalia unveiled what could become THE collaboration of the year, between Balenciaga and Adidas. It included a reinterpretation of the iconic Triple S, stamped for the occasion with adidas's iconic three stripes, but also T-shirts, track pants and jackets, tank tops, a strapless dress, and even baggy denim pants, also embellished with the signature three stripes.

And, hitting even harder for maximum impact, the two brands put the collection out to buy straight away, and only for a very limited time, since it will be available only until May 29. A T-shirt retails for €595, a pair of sweatpants for €1,200, and €4,200 will buy you a leather hooded jacket -- a real collector's item.

With this collaboration, the three-stripe brand has secured a serious lead over its opponent, especially since it will be followed by the launch of another highly anticipated collection: the fruit of its partnership with Gucci.

Nike strikes back

But the Swoosh brand hasn't said its last word. After lifting the veil on successful collaborations with Louis Vuitton and Sacai, Nike scored a hit by announcing a collection with one of the most prominent houses on social media: Jacquemus. If the fruit of this partnership has not yet been revealed in its entirety, it is known to focus on the American giant's vintage pieces and outdoor pursuits, with a bucket hat, cycling shorts, and a striking new version of the Humara shoe. All of this is set to land after adidas' successive launches, on June 28.