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The early February news that Nike was reintroducing its outdoor performance brand, Nike ACG (All Conditions Gear), was big. Interesting vibes, film-style photography, a stated focus on trail running, hiking and exploration.
The announcement demonstrated that there had been a lot of thought in the process, and, given that it’s Nike, the ACG reintro would definitely be a well-funded endeavor.
“This is a defining moment in ACG’s history — a recommitment to all conditions and an invitation to athletes: unplug, get outside and explore,” says Scott LeClair, VP/GM, ACG. “ACG has the foundation to shape the future of outdoor performance while pushing into spaces that feel fresh and unexpected. It is going to be a fun ride.”
And ride it has been. Timed to the “t” with the Winter Games in Cortina/Milano, Nike ACG is seemingly everywhere, all at once. Branded train? Roster of elite athletes? Fantastic product design / intro? An unwavering dedication to the color orange? All yes.
The beginnings of ACG date back to the early 1980s and testing footwear as part of a K2 expedition. The name was made official in 1989, built around a small collection of year-round apparel. The history is fascinating.
Will 2026 be the year of ACG? So far, it’s looking like it. ACG has plans for its first standalone store in Beijing’s Taikoo Li Sanlitun shopping center. This ACG Base Camp “is a physical manifesto of ACG’s spirit, reimagining gear for a new generation and returning to the brand’s roots of exploration,” states Nike. Additionally, ACG will be sponsoring trail running events including the Chongli 168 Ultra Trail, Broken Arrow Skyrace and Gorge Waterfalls.
New members of the ACG Racing Department:
- Hiroki Kai (Japan)
- Hyunji Kang (Korea)
- Minchul Ko (Korea)
- Jennifer Lichter (U.S.)
- Adam Merry (U.S.)
- Takako Takamura (Japan)
New Products:
- Flagship ACG Ultrafly shoe
- Rugged ACG Zegama shoe
- Radical AirFlow racing top
- Lava Loft down jacket
Images courtesy of Nike.
