FASHION FIX: Nike or adidas kicks?

It pays to be a baller. Check out the swag Nike sent Grigor Dimitrov and adidas gave to Fernando Verdasco recently. They're similar in style but which one is better? I'll take the Nikes, pleeeeease.



Grisha: "Fortunate to have @nike supporting me with only the best and the most unique products! Always keeping me fresh! Nike Air Force 1! #SpecialEditionRio"



Fer: "Special delivery from Adidas"

FASHION FIX: The polo returns in red for Federer in Paris

No one would have blamed Roger Federer for feeling a little nervous today. For his first round match at Roland Garros the former top baller was facing the man who almost took him out in Madrid, Feliciano Lopez, a few weeks ago. But today was a different day as a focused Fed dispatched of the Spaniard in straights sets 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (3). It wasn't the cleanest match by either baller (shanktastic!) but you can be sure the Swiss was happy to get that one out of the way. He next faces French eye candy Maxime Teixeira for a spot in the third round. 

Fed also returned to form with his on-court fashion. Since March Madness Nike had been outfitting the Swiss in collarless, high-V neck shirts that seemed, oh, a bit off somehow. Like he was out for a practice or his neck was naked. But, alas, the collars have returned in the shape of a polo - the Trophy Stripe Polo ($80) to be exact! Here it is in sport red:

The polo is paired with the Trophy Woven Shorts (about $48) in white which features cute contrast piping on the pocket:

Rounding out the RG kit I give you the Lunar Vapor 8 Tour ($120) in sport red + white:

Look, it was a nice change to see him in something other than a polo since that's what he wears 99.9999% of the time on court. But if you were to ask me what I thought he looked best in I'd still say the polo. It works well on him. He's all about classic design with pops of color here and there (and this red is a strong choice) and not the technotronic trends that are so popular right now. He's a bit of throwback as we all know.

So, I don't know about you but I'm happy it's back.

[Photo(s): Nike, Alex Livesey/Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: A closer look at Rafael Nadal + Roger Federer's US Open Nike numbers

Here are the duds Nike debuted for Rafael Nadal + Roger Federer last night at the Primetime Knockout Event. Let's take a peek, shall we?

For his day matches Tron will be working the Fall Vamos Court Crew ($65) in hot lime - how fitting - and, to the pleasure of many fans and Brad Gilbert, an all-black look for night. It's the first time he'll be working a full-on black kit at the US Open or anywhere else on tour. So should we crown him Darth Rafa? Uh, not sold on it. I'll stick with Tron.

Both tops are paired with the Fall Vamos Woven Short ($60).

He'll be tearing up the Flushing Meadow DecoTurf blue courts with his fave Air Court Ballistecs 2.3 ($120) in white with lime for day and lime with black for night. It was the global sports brand's intention to keep Tron in all-black at night to highlight these sneaks. And it worked.

Nike has moved 5-time US Open champ Roger Federer in a decidedly different direction from the Spaniard by outfitting him in more classic pieces inspired by the blue collar/white collar shirts that personify New York. Traditional menswear elements including the windowpane collar treatment and stripe are also highlighted.

The Swiss will be working the Victory RF Court Polo ($80) in football blue for day and dark obsidian navy at night matched with the Victory RF Tennis Shorts (about $39 - UK) in dark khaki and dark obsidian navy, respectively.

The 16-time Grand Slammer will be continue with the Lunar Vapor Tour ($120) in white with football blue for day and white with dark obsidian navy for night.

I think it's a smart move for Nike to return to the days of giving Rafa + Fed more distinct looks. There was a moment last season when the two started to dress too similarly - it seemed like Rafa was getting outfitted by Fed. Can imagine that scene? *visualizes...lulz*

Anyway, this direction keeps their individuality and plays well to their personalities. Me likey.

[Photo(s): Nike]

FASHION FIX: Melanie Oudin to showcase "COURAGE" adidas style

Here's a look at the new, customized adidas Barricades 6.0 Melanie Oudin will be working during her campaign at this year's US Open. The 18-year old, who's "BELIEVE" kicks made headlines during her thrilling run to her first Grand Slam quarterfinal last season, designed them herself at miadidas.com and chose the word "COURAGE" this time around.

“The reason I chose the word COURAGE is because in order to believe you have to have the courage to do so,” said Mels. “Courage to me means playing with no fear and going for it no matter what. You can believe in yourself so much but unless you have the courage to go on the court and put yourself on the line every time you won't make it. You need courage and belief to make it to the top.”

I'm liking this color combo much better than last year's for sure. Let's hope Mels, who's entering Flushing Meadows on a 4-match losing streak and carrying a huge bag of ranking points on her back, will somehow let her game do the talking as well.

Visit miadidas.com for more details on how to make your own customized pair.


[Photo(s): adidas]

FASHION FIX: Nadal knocks off Nishikori, debuts Vamos Nike styles

Rafael Nadal played his first match at Wimbledon since the classic 2008 final when he defeated Roger Federer for his first, and only, Championship. The 7-time Grand Slammer defeated wildcard Kei Nishikori 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 with some solid, aggressive stats including 45 winners/16 UEs, 69% first serve, 8 aces and 15 of 24 net approaches.

In his post-match presser Rafa was asked about his return to Centre Court after missing last year with injury:

Q. How did it feel to be back on Centre Court?

RAFAEL NADAL: Hello (laughter).

Sure, it's always special to play on this court. Very happy to come back to this tournament and play in probably the most beautiful and emblematic court in the world.

Q. Did it feel different after missing last year?

RAFAEL NADAL: No, no. Just happy to come back. Always the feeling is amazing. Was amazing all the time come back here after the victory in 2008 always, sure, is a little bit more special.

He'll face Robin Haase, who beat James Blake, in the next round.


Throughout the fortnight Rafa will be showcasing the Nike Vamos Lawn Crew Tennis Shirt ($65) in white + light wild mango paired with the Vamos Woven Short ($60) in the same colorway.


The Majorcan Matador will be kicking up the grass and taking names in the new Air Court Ballistec 2.3 trainers ($120) in white, black, solar red and metallic silver.


So, there's not much to say about this Nike kit - it's fine and he wears it well, duh - but I have no words for this Rafoto below. Well, there's one: HAWT.


[Photo(s): Getty Images, TennisWarehouse.com, Nike.com]

FASHION FIX: Federer survives Falla, debuts Victory Lawn styles by Nike

Phew.

And that's probably the tamest thing Roger Federer said to himself during his 5-7, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (1), 6-0 escape from his opening round match at Wimbledon against a blazing Alejandro Falla.

The 6-time champ fell behind early in the first set due to some great play by the Colombian and his game continued to falter from there. The World No. 60, who called the trainer a couple of times for an apparent groin injury, even served for the match in the fourth set but Fed managed to break back and dominate for the remainder.

Afterward Fed told the BBC:

I definitely got very lucky out there. I have lost many matches this year which I should have won, this is one I should have lost but I came through. But that is sometimes how grass court tennis works.

It came as a bit of a shock and it's not something I was that prepared for, but you have to draw from experience and physical strength. I live to fight another day.

Fed stats for the match: 101 winners/40 UEs, 21 aces, 59% first serve, 66% success at net. And he still almost lost. Go figure. He'll face Serbia's Ilija Bozoljac for a spot in the third round.


So what new Nike duds is the top seed wearing as he continues his quest to tie Pete Sampras' record of seven Wimby titles?

The Victory RF Lawn Polo in white + gold ($80) which features a 4-button hidden placket, pintucks in the front and pleats at the back yoke.

The polo is paired with the Victory Lawn Short in white + gold (about $52 - UK) which showcases subtle striping.

The Swiss is also working the Lunarlite Vapor Tour in white + gold ($120). In keeping with tradition his version showcases a '6' on back referencing his 6 titles at the All England Club.

And no Fed outfit at Wimby would be complete without his murse and warm up top, which this year was a simple zip front sweater in cream with the RF logo of course:


I'm actually really happy Nike decided to go low key with the sweater warm up. The outfits were getting a bit overdone, as if they were trying to top themselves every year. The entire outfit is clean and classic. Nice.

[Photo(s): Getty Images, Tennis Warehouse, Nike Tennis, AP]

FASHION FIX: Berdych gives Isner the beatdown, hits high style note in Nike

Tomas Berdych equaled his best performance at Roland Garros when he absolutely dominated the towering John Isner 6-2, 6-2, 6-1 to reach the fourth round. He crushed 43 winners against only 10 errors, threw down 9 aces, made 12 of 13 net approaches and won 28 of 30 points when landing his first serve. Gawdy stuff if you ask me.

Pretty Boy Berd is also working what I think is the best boy's outfit of the tourney. Here's a rundown of his latest Nike kit:

Men's Classic Back Spin Net Polo in white + flat pewter ($60)

Men's Summer Back Spin Woven Short in dark obsidian navy + white ($50)

Zoom Breathe 2K10 in black + yellow ($100)

Home and Away Reversible Doublewide Wristbands in yellow + midnight navy ($8)

At quick glance this outfit comes across as pretty straightforward. But I think the pairing of the side stripe on the shorts with the window pane design on the polo is a more successful and smart use of pattern mixing than what Nike tried with Rafael Nadal this season. Plus the pops of yellow on the Zooms and wristbands gets me all giddy inside. Classic with a tennis twist.

Oh Berdy, you're just so easy on the eyes - in all ways.

[Photo(s): Getty Images]

(UPDATED) FASHION FIX: Top seeds begin Roland Garros campaign, debut new Nike duds

As reigning Australian Open champs top seeds Roger Federer + Serena Williams own the first leg of the Calendar Slam and are faves to grab the second leg in Paris. They both played their first round matches today and debuted new gear from Nike.

The Swiss stylist began the defense of his Roland Garros crown easily defeating Peter Luczak 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 in his typical, sweatless style. His stats told the tale: 34 winners/11 errors, 7 aces, and 71% success on first serves deliveries winning 80% of the time.

So what new styles was Fed working during this drubbing?

Mens All Court RF Clay Polo in bluegrass + white ($80)

Rush and Crush French Men's Tennis Shorts in white ($34)

Lunarlite Vapor Tour in obsidian + white ($120)

There isn't much you can do with menswear especially with someone who tends to stay with the classics like Fed. However, I was loving the henley-style tops he was wearing during the warm up tourneys because it was a nice change up from the polos he's always outfitted in by the Nike designers. That style is a nice compromise between a polo and a t-shirt. Oh well, it's a hard habit to break I guess.


ReRe had a bit more trouble in the opening set of her first round match, particularly with her serving, but showed her world-class quality in the second closing out Stefanie Voegele 7-6 (2), 6-2. She managed 28 winners against 22 errors, threw down 10 aces, and converted all 3 break point chances against her Swiss foe.

Here's a closer look at the 12-time Grand Slammer's stylish gear for her campaign, sans the sexy knickers:

Women's Electric Love Game Dress in marina blue + electric green ($90)

Air Max Mirabella II in marina blue, cool mint and electric green ($85)

I love this dress although, as I tweeted during her match, it seems a bit more Oz Open than Roland Garros. But it's fun, bright and the pleated trim is a pretty touch.

I say ReRe wins the Williams battle of the knaughty knickers over sister Venus pants, er, hands down.

UPDATE: I found it! Here's the short style Fed is wearing - the All Court Men's Woven Tennis Short. And yes it matters that much to me.


[Photo(s): TennisWarehouse.com, Nike.com, Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Murray crushes Anderson in Oz, debuts adidas Competition line

Andy Murray, who is still searching for his maiden major, got off to a blistering start at the Aussie Open.

The Brit baller stomped all over South African Kevin Anderson 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 in the opening round hitting 37 winners against 19 errors, 9 aces, and converting 8 of 12 break points all while throwing down a paltry 35% first serve percentage. He'll need to better than that stat when he faces either Frenchie Marc Gicquel or Simone "The Beautiful" Bolelli in the next round.


Muzz also debuted the new adidas Andy Murray Competition duds designed specifically with the fifth seed in mind. He's wearing the Traditional Polo in blue + acid buzz ($54) which features a 3-button placket collar with contrasting side panels and a mesh panel on back for ventilation.


The polo is paired with the Bermuda Shorts in white ($46) which have a mesh-lined inset and contrast markings on back.


And of course Muzz will be wearing the uber-popular Barricade V's ($110) in blue + white.


Firstly, let me say I really miss him in Fred Perry. Their designs were so beautifully classic and helped Muzz stand out from the crowd of techno fibers and glaring color choices. I particularly loved when they took vintage looks and styles and gave them a modern twist for his matches.

That being said I like the use of acid buzz to help these pieces pop against the blue courts, even though I don't find the actual design compelling (or the roomy fit for that matter.)

But kudos to adidas for giving the 22-year old his own special gear to wear. Let's hope he makes it worth their while.

[Photo(s): Clive Brunskill/Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Rafa reveals new DC kicks

Rafael Nadal was spotted with some new Nike Air Courtballistecs for this weekend's big Davis Cup final.

Do you LOVE?

[Photo(s): DavisCup]

FASHION FIX: DF makes return to prime time, subdues Simon

Roger Federer aka Darth Federer made his ominous return to prime time tennis at the US Open in what was an historic night.

DF entered as the first match of the night sesssion, the first time the boy's match was scheduled as the opening act since 1986. The Swiss Maestro was pushed by journeyman Simon Greul their second round match but his quality ultimately prevailed defeating the German baller 6-3, 7-5, 7-5. He'll face old nemesis Lleyton Hewitt, whom he's beaten the last 13 times, for a spot in the Round of 16.

DF also debuted his evening wear - the Nike Men's Fall Open Polo ($50) in black with challenge red + white - to go along with his challenge red + black dayfit for this Grand Slam campaign. He's also sporting a sneaky, matching belt to compliment the outfit (see top image.)


The 15-time Grand Slammer also unveiled these sick + sleek looking Nike Air Vapor VI Tour Men's Shoe ($115) which I absolutely loved.


After missing big time with the wannabe catsuit from last year's US Open, I'm relieved Nike returned Rog to his DF ways. Now, I can't imagine wearing this all black number in the heat of a midday match but maybe early mornings and/or night. Plus, each of these pieces could be worn off-court to make a casual outfit look a bit more sporty.

(Photos: Getty, Tennis Warehouse)