Nike NFL Uniforms: Breaking Down Nike's Elite 51 Collection

The overall uniform designs may not be different for 31 of the 32 teams next season, but Nike and the NFL have teamed up to completely overhaul the template in Nike's "Elite 51" collection Tuesday. 

A "completely integrated system of dress," the Elite 51 collection will feature several new improvements to the NFL's uniform model. 

Among the upgrades, from Nike:

• LIGHTER — The Nike jersey and pant, wet or dry, are lighter than previous versions.
• FLYWIRE TECHNOLOGY — Eliminates layers, reduces weight, and provides lockdown fit.
• ZONED MESH VENTILATION – Provides cooling zones for optimal thermoregulation.
• ZONED STRENGTH – High tenacity, stretch material, for light weight lockdown strength.
• CUT FOR MOBILITY – Four-way stretch, hydrophobic materials enable range of motion wet or dry.
• STRETCH TWILL NUMBERS – Four-way stretch even on numbering system.
• CUSTOMIZABLE BASELAYER PADDING – Nike Pro Combat Hyperstrong baselayer with integrated lightweight, Deflex padding offering customizable flexible protection.
• DEFLEX PADDING – Lightweight, flexible impact protection integrated into top “hit zone” areas. 
• ALUMINUM D-RING BELT – Aircraft-grade aluminum D-ring belt reduces weight.

The main goal for the NFL and Nike was to make a uniform that incorporated what the players and teams wanted in the new look and design, according to Nike's Design Director for Football, Todd Van Home.

Our brief was to provide players with everything they need and nothing more. We blended cutting edge technology and fabrications with more than 40 years of knowledge, craft and insight into the game. We worked closely with the teams, listening to their needs and delivering the best options to serve those athletes.

The look also includes upgrades to the socks, cleats and gloves. 

The "Nike Vapor Game Sock" uses a combination of compression, venting and cushioning, while the "Nike Vapor Jets 2.0 Gloves" are a lightweight, breathable fit with each team's NFL logo on the underpalm.

Nike's "Vapor Talon Elite" cleat, popular for years among football players across platforms, is also included.

Arizona Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald talked in the Nike release about the changes. 

With today’s game being about strength and speed, it’s extremely exciting to know that when I take the field for the 2012 NFL season, I will be doing so in a uniform that is lightweight, fast and durable while also providing the targeted protection I need. As a player, you want zero distractions on the field.