Nike’s collaboration with Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand, Skims, is facing production delays, pushing the launch back from its original target this spring, as per reports.
Named Nikeskims, this co-branded venture was introduced in February with hopes of breaking into the competitive women’s activewear sector by offering training shoes, apparel, and accessories. The debut collection is now expected to drop later this year.
“We anticipated the first ‘comprehensive collection’ to be available by the end of May,” said Nike CEO Elliot Hill during a recent investors meeting.
However, the timeline has shifted unexpectedly.
Sources indicate that production challenges are behind the delays, but Nike remains hopeful for a launch before year-end.
Shoppers eagerly awaiting the first product still have no confirmation if a preview or teaser will precede the full release.
Despite these setbacks, both companies are heavily committed to their partnership.
Nike views the collaboration as a way to leverage the star power of entrepreneurs and celebrities like Kardashian to enhance its cultural relevance and promote women’s business growth during a time of slowing sales.
For Skims, teaming up with a leading athletic brand could propel it beyond shapewear and into the competitive activewear landscape.
After month of speculation, Nike revealed the collaboration in February and assembled a dedicated team comprising members from both brands, along with new designers. This endeavor is set to produce a lineup of training gear.
This partnership emerges as a crucial moment for Nike, which has seen its stock drop over 20% since January, in contrast to a 2% rise in the broader S&P 500.
As Nike prepares to report its fourth-quarter earnings on June 26, investors are likely to be cautious with their expectations.
Hill, who stepped into a leadership role last year, emphasized the significance of revitalizing Nike’s women’s division as part of a larger recovery strategy.
He reassured shareholders in March that the Nikeskims partnership would provide a “comprehensive collection” capable of reigniting momentum.
As the timeline continues to shift, anticipation hangs in the air.
The global launch is still slated for 2026, with insiders noting the company’s insistence on getting things right.
This post has reached out for comments from Skims and Nike.
