THE JOURNAL

The word “magic” is digitally pinned on Nike ACG’s mood board for its latest collection. No, it’s not what you’re thinking. The line is less about sleight of hand or pulling rabbits out of things (although one hoodie is called Wizard) and more about finding the sublime and mystical in certain locations. In particular, the deepness and clarity of Crater Lake, Oregon, and its “spectacular bluish hue”, have inspired the recent designs, influencing everything from the colour palette to the technical fabrics and textures.
The brand’s All Conditions Gear line has been thoughtfully designed and rigorously wear-tested to ensure it’ll cope with everything from rocky terrain (thank you, traction) to seriously sticky summer humidity (hello, breathable mesh). Here are 10 pieces from the new drop that the explorer, wanderer and adventurer in you will want to add to their Wish List.
01.
The printed T-shirt

Think of this T-shirt like the merch you (used to) pick up at gigs and festivals. It’s not printed with a band logo, but it is earthy, almost muddy, in colour and is emblazoned with plenty of outdoorsy motifs. Slip it on and you’ll be transported back to the last time you were out trailing or backpacking. Metaphorically, at least.
02.
The classic cargo trousers

Who doesn’t love a few extra pockets? These cargo pants have them in abundance, along with a handy carabiner to hang your keys or a reusable water bottle on. The nylon fabric is hardy and water-repellent, so these trousers will see you through plenty of hikes (and stumbles) in the mountains (or just some very big hills).
03.
The cosy socks

Cold feet are instantly dispiriting, even if you’re having the best day ever. These socks are 44 per cent wool, so they’ll help regulate your temperature and feel super soft. Feel free to buy in bulk.
04.
The go-everywhere jacket

We mean it. You will wear this jacket for years to come, thanks to the versatile two-tone colourway and weatherproof fabric. It’ll keep you protected in even the harshest conditions and has all the right clips and toggles. It’ll look just as good in a beer garden (not long now) as it will in the fells.
05.
The fisherman beanie

The best thing about this fleece-lined fisherman beanie, apart from its snugness, is the considered colour. We can already picture ourselves wearing it with turned-up jeans to grab lunch at a local café or meet friends at the pub. For now, we’ll carry on using it to hide our dishevelled lockdown locks, but a man can dream.
06.
The 1990s sneakers

They’re designed for trail running, but these sneakers are spiritually similar to chunky 1990s pairs in Nike’s archives. The Gore-Tex ripstop uppers are waterproof (we’d still advise wearing two pairs of socks if you’re going trekking) and the signature Air units deliver cushioning and bounce.
07.
The holds-more-than-you-think belt bag

It’s not always practical to lug a huge carryall around with you, which is where this belt bag comes in. It’s made from a hard-wearing Cordura material, has an adjustable strap and handy daisy-chain webbing that you can clip extra things to.
08.
The colour-block gilet

As well as looking stylish and providing an extra layer of warmth, this gilet is so lightweight that it’s easily foldable and packable. The blue pockets are a nod to the deep waters of Crater Lake. Plus, you’ll look like a really cool fisherman, which, if TikTok’s recent sea shanty digression didn’t make clear, is very much what the kids are doing these days.
09.
The fleece sweatpants

Whether you’re working from home or heading out walking, these sweatpants will see you right – and they’ll certainly keep you warm. They’re made from Nike’s patented Polartec fleece, which is breathable and insulating.
10.
The Rope De Dope jacket

Who said practical outerwear can’t look stylish? This jacket is printed with paint-style splatters that you’d be more likely to spot in the wild at Men’s Fashion Week than the great outdoors. Packable, rainproof and made from at least 75 per cent recycled materials, it’s named after a large rock block and a trail near Nike’s HQ in Oregon.