The Nike Free was a groundbreaking running shoe released in 2004, designed to mimic the biomechanics of barefoot running. The brainchild of designers Tobie Hatfield and Eric Avar, the Nike Free was the outcome of extensive research conducted at Stanford University, observing athletes running barefoot on grass. With its innovative design, featuring a flexible outsole with deep sipes for multi-directional flexibility, the shoe allowed for natural foot movements, providing runners a more minimalistic running experience. Collaborations with designers and brands, such as Matthew M. Williams and UNDERCOVER, have led to creative reinterpretations of the Nike Free, keeping the model relevant and popular in both sports and fashion realms. Its enduring legacy lies in its transformative approach to running shoe design, promoting the idea of natural motion in athletic footwear.
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Nike was established in 1964 by Bill Bowerman, a University of Oregon track and field coach, and Phil Knight, his former student. Initially called Blue Ribbon Sports, the company rebranded in 1971 to Nike, named after the Greek goddess of victory. The brand quickly gained popularity with the debut of its first running shoe, the Nike Cortez, in 1972. Nike later gained significant cultural relevance with the introduction of the Air Jordan line, designed in partnership with basketball star Michael Jordan. Nike continued to innovate with technologies like Air Max, which emphasized visible cushioning as both a design and performance feature. The company also collaborated with well-known designers and fashion women, including Virgil Abloh's OFF-WHITE, Dior, and sacai, helping establish it as a prominent leader in both athletic performance and modern fashion, combining technical innovation with stylish design.
