Kona Ironman:: Sarah Reinersten’s Race Kit
Concept Innovator. Lead Apparel Designer. Weartest Analyst.
“It’s only crazy until you do it,” Nike.
Sarah’s “crazy” dream became a reality not once, but three times. In 2018 Sarah Reinersten competed in her third Kona Ironman competition. Wearing this customized kit, she completed the race 24 minutes faster than her finish time from 2005. Collaborating directly with Sarah was inspirational. She provided key insights and feedback, throughout the design process, of her specific needs for her race day uniform. Designing based on her functional and aesthetic preferences informed innovative design, fit, construction, and testing resulting in a specialized performance uniform unlike any other.
The Process
Research
Design thinking and research lead the process for developing a kit that complimented Sarah’s physique and performed at the highest level.
Design
Understanding Sarah’s biomechanics in relation to fit and her prosthetic leg was critical to designing a uniform complimentary of her physique and that was easily donned during her race transitions.
Test
Through an iterative process of different designs and wear-testing the aesthetic, fit, and material were determined. Post each wear-testing session Sarah shared her feedback on the uniform and the team modified the kit with the proper adjustments.
The Kit
Customized
Sarah’s personal style and competition preferences informed innovative design, fit, construction, and testing resulting in a specialized performance uniform unlike any other.
Function
The graphics, ergonomic fit and easy access pockets were tailored to Sarah’s body to create an aerodynamic, streamline design enhancing her competition experience and performance.
Race Day
Final Product
Photos courtesy of Sarah Reinersten, Nike Inc., and ESPN