29 September 2025 |
“We were really intrigued by the data driven approach to running and how we could visualise this,” explains Denis Olgac, one quarter of the design collective Sucuk und Bratwurst. We looked at decision making processes derived from analytics, such as replacing guesswork with quantitative reasoning, especially from a medical perspective. In particular, we explored the concept of VO2 max [the maximum volume of oxygen your body can utilize during intense exercise] and how analysing yourself can bring about the best results from a cardiovascular perspective. It’s ‘you against you’ essentially: I think that echoes Nike’s approach to performance and athletes’ pushing limits.”
Olgac is eagerly discussing the studio’s inspiration for its new project – a collection comprising pieces of curated running and lifestyle apparel – in conjunction with the leading sports brand. The offering is guided by the concept of enhancing human performance through biology, data and design. The capsule was fittingly launched at AREA 72 in Berlin’s Kurfürstendamm: a space where visitors can experience Nike Sport Research Lab’s (NSRL) development in form optimisation with techniques as motion analysis using high-speed cameras and proprietary algorithms, providing coaching insights and Nike Training Club workouts plans based on the findings. Test subjects even receive shoe recommendations tailored to their unique profile.
Sucuk and Bratwurst was formed in 2014 and is run by Denis and his brother Lukas Olgac, alongside their childhood friends Alessandro Belliero and David Gönner. And if you haven’t heard the name before, you’ll have definitely seen their work. Favourites of the Berlin art and fashion scene, they’re known for their dream-like 3D renderings, explorative approach and humour-filled designs. The merry band of creatives have reworked merch for artists such as Post Malone and Katy Perry, reanimated logos and crafted special effects for Dior, created core concept ideas and animation for Valentino and they’ve even made a 3D rendering of Will Smith for Moncler.
The Berlin-based design maestros are clearly adept at shifting between digital and physical media to create innovative and exciting visuals and campaigns, so it will come as no surprise that the studio is a long time Nike partner, with the behemoth first approaching the group to work on a Nike AM 97 campaign in 2017. Footwear and running in particular forms the brand’s ideology: co-founder and Olympian Bill Bowerman originally modified his runner’s shoes to enhance their performance and slash seconds off their times. And it’s this desire to stay at the top of the field that has driven the company to create arguably the most diverse and visionary footwear to set foot in the sporting arena.
And of course the creatives are long-standing fans: as 90s kids growing up in southern Germany, owning kicks with the signature swoosh was paramount. “ Nike was always the coolest and swaggiest brand out there,” explains Gönner. “As a kid I was really into basketball: on the courts we all wore Nike.”
By August last year, the shared vision of a capsule collection brought the two together again with initial designs swiftly following. Working with Nike has always given the designers creative freedom they need. “The brand has always championed our approach to design and our specific aesthetics. Our process is rooted in research and technology and they wanted to celebrate this,” explains Olgac. “Nike’s own DNA centres on innovation, design and technology as well [they’re industry leaders when it comes to developing sustainable materials and using biomechanical analytics to inform product design]. “They really trusted us and wanted to give us space to realise the project’s full potential. You could say that together we created a laboratory of ideas.”
The science-inspired approach led to the collective delving into realms of data, which in turn spawned graphics and imagery that simply and effectively deliver the perfect marriage of brand and human DNA. The result is the reimagining of a simple running uniform into stylish expressions of individuality. A fingerprint fashioned out of a running track is particularly striking and a design that the artists are perhaps the most proud of. Friction edges – unique patterns of elevated ridges formed by oil and sweat – are imagined in white lines with breaks to replicate track limits. ”It’s a simple concept but it was hard to execute,” Olgac explains, “Blending something so organic with something so symmetrical was a challenge.”
Elsewhere the Nike swoosh forms the peak on a lactic acid tracking graph, referencing its temporary increase which occurs during high-intensity exercise, when the body needs energy faster than can be supplied. A running vest and shorts are emblazoned with oversized abstract renderings of oxygen-inspired bubbles, strategically placed to illustrate optimal distribution to the muscles and to the bloodstream.
Such thorough analysis can only come from a place of keen interest, Olgac is a committed runner and favours the singlet and hoodie which sports a large Nike swoosh on the back. – “ I want to look good when I’m competing!” he exclaims – and the collective counts many sports enthusiasts amongst their close-knit group of friends.
Successful collections aside, it’s clear that the studio is excelling in all areas. Following the launch the design collective is now back in their studio and focusing on their recently launched coffee shop, another Nike- supported project. “At the moment we’re serving coffee and hosting a running club,” explains Olgac.”But in December the coffee element finishes. And from then on we will focus purely on developing the space in order to host exhibitions and and events.” A winning formula indeed.
Nike by: Sucuk und Bratwurst is available now
