words_Brandon Richard
images_Nick DePaula

How many schools can be identified by simply calling out one letter? That honor resides solely with the University of Miami, better known as “The U.” The school is so easily recognizable because over the last decade, they’ve cranked out more top tier NFL talent than any other institution. Since 1999, Miami has sent 67 players to the NFL, only second to Ohio State. However, 33 of those players were selected in the first round, 8 more than any other school in the country. Earlier this year, 11 former Hurricanes were selected to play in the NFL Pro-Bowl, setting the record for the most players from one school selected to play in the annual game. While things have slowed down in recent years, there’s no doubting that Miami has produced some of the best talent in football over the last 10 years.

Miami’s status as one of college football’s elite programs made them an obvious choice for Nike’s 2010 Pro Combat program. For the program, a special Pro Combat uniform was made for Miami with elements of their heritage worked into the design. Tonal Fir palm-frond print representing South Florida was incorporated into the jersey numbers, pant and footwear. The ‘Canes unveiled their Pro Combat gear in a game against the Virginia Tech Hokies on November 20th.

In addition to the Pro Combat uniforms, Nike also hooked Miami up with a special Pro Combat colorway of the Zoom Huarache Trainer. The shoe, which is available here at Eastbay now, sports a fir green exoskeleton with black working the inner bootie, midfoot strap and tongue. Hits of team orange appear on the midsole and branding on the tongue and strap. Also orange is the insole, which also features the University of Miami logo and fir palm print. A large Swoosh on the heel is done in white, while an orange-grooved black rubber outsole finishes things off on the bottom.

Available: Nike Zoom Huarache Trainer “Miami”