Nike’s Plus Size Mannequin Backlash

Nike recently unveiled a new plus-size line of athletic clothing and with it, a plus-size mannequin on which to display the clothing. Makes sense, right? A plus-size mannequin to display plus-size clothing.

One journalist, however, railed against this move as “promoting obesity.” In this Dietitians Unplugged episode, Aaron and I talk about the reaction to the mannequin, both good and bad, how promoting obesity is not actually “a thing”, and the role that internalized weight stigma may have played in this reaction.

Show notes:

I’m not linking to the original article because it’s pretty mean, and you can search the Tanya Gold/Nike article if you want to read it (it’s pretty easy to find). Instead, here are some great articles clapping back.

Telegraph’s Fatphobic Take On Nike’s Plus-Size Mannequins Receives Backlash

Nike’s plus-sized mannequins don’t ‘promote’ obesity – they reflect reality. Why on earth is that an issue?

The Real Issue With Nike’s Plus Size Mannequins

Dances with Fat: Nike’s Plus Size Mannequins Uncover the Truth About Weight Stigma

Study showing lower mortality in “overweight” category (referenced)