The 2009 NBA All-Star uniform

Men's Fitness, Feb, 2009

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, THE NEW ALL-STAR UNIS FROM ADIDAS ARE BEING UNVEILED EXCLUSIVELY IN MEN'S FITNESS. HERE'S WHAT THE LEAGUE'S BEST BALLERS WILL BE SPORTING IN PHOENIX FEB. 15.

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HIGH-TECH PROTECTION

Together, the jersey and shorts are 31% lighter than the typical NBA uniform. Before, layers of twill were sewn together, bogging down the garment. Now added elements, like conference names and player numbers, are bonded on with a heated glue. From a comfort standpoint, the jerseys are tighter fitting and the seams are heat welded, not sewn. That means better mobility and less abrasion for players inside the uni.

GRIPPER WAIST BAND

League rules state that jerseys must stay tucked in at all times. The gripper elastic waistband keeps the jersey in place, giving players one less thing to worry about "in the heat of battle."

BETTER VENTILATION

Through athlete testing, adidas conducted sport-specific studies on the body's "heat zones"--areas where players tend to sweat more. Strategically placed holes over these key areas help the guys stay drier longer. The adidas body-mapping technology works in conjunction with its TECHFIT compression garments, which are worn underneath the uniforms to aid in improved performance, fast recovery, and less fatigue.

PHOENIX-INSPIRED DESIGN

The influence of this year's host city in the design is undeniable. The horizontal lines resemble Arizona's rock formations, while the progression of color (desert red for the West, sunset blue for the East) is emblematic of the legendary bird rising from the flames.

The 2009 NBA All-Star jerseys are available online at NBAStore.com beginning Jan. 22. NBA All-Star Authentic Player Jerseys and Customized Jerseys: $200; NBA All-Star Swingman Jersey: $80; NBA All-Star Replica Jersey: $50.