Cool Hunting

Nike officially announced the opening of its first Nike Sportswear retail store in the world today. Located at 21 Mercer in NYC's SoHo and opening its doors this Thursday, 22 August 2008, this newest and top tier Nike shop will be the only location globally to carry the complete Nike Sportswear NSW collection. But what really sets the location apart are a few products exclusively available at the new outpost.

The new 21 Mercer LunaRacer (pictured above) is one of the products only found in New York. The latest running shoe out of Nike's Innovation Kitchen, the LunaRacer fuses Nike's two newest technologies — Flywire and Lunarlite foam — making for a lighter, stronger, more cushioned and more responsive running shoe. Flywire filaments strategically placed where support is needed cuts down on the weight of the shoe without comprising durability. The Lunalite foam also cuts down on weight but still provides the cushion and distribution needed to protect from pain and injury during long distance running. Originally designed for the Beijing Olympic athletes, it's only fitting that it makes its debut at 21 Mercer in the limited edition colorways matching the color of the Olympic rings.

Part of the pinnacle NSW collection, another exclusive is the 21 Mercer NSW Collection M-65 Jacket (pictured right), which is similar to the original Patchwork M-65 but released here in a new colorway. Constructed from three-layer waterproof, breathable nylon, the NSW spin on this classic design is to piece together patchwork squares using ultrasonic welding and taped seam construction, eliminating all but the most minimal stitching. Each jacket is one-of-a-kind as patchwork layouts are random. It's a prime example of Nike Sportwear's commitment to innovation that blends the high-tech with progressive style.

Other "21 Mercer only" products include the Flywire Windrunner Jacket (pictured above), Air Rejuven8 sneaker, Air Max 90 Flywire, a made-to-order Air Force 1 Low Lux, the Nike Dunk Hi and a special Nike Sportswear 21 Mercer Tee, all released in the limited edition Olympic Rings colorways. You'll have to visit the store to have a look in person.

More images after the jump and more to come in the near future about the 21 Mercer store opening.

21 Mercer Air Max 90 Flywire

21 Mercer Air Rejuven8

21 Mercer Dunk Hi

21 Mercer Flywire Windrunner