Nike, the sportswear giant synonymous with athletic achievement, wasn’t always a global brand. Its journey began much humbler, with two men and a desire to improve running shoes. Here’s a look at how Nike came out of the starting blocks:
From Blue Ribbon to Swoosh (1964-1971)
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It all began in 1964 when Phil Knight, a former University of Oregon track athlete, joined forces with his coach, Bill Bowerman. Together, they founded Blue Ribbon Sports, initially operating as a distributor for the Japanese shoemaker Onitsuka Tiger (now Asics).
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Bowerman, a man obsessed with improving performance, wasn’t satisfied with the existing footwear. Legend has it that the iconic Waffle Trainer design came about after Bowerman poured rubber into his wife’s waffle iron, seeking better traction for his athletes!
Taking Flight: The Birth of Nike (1971)
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By 1971, Blue Ribbon Sports decided to branch out on its own. The company needed a new name, and inspiration struck Phil Knight in a dream – Nike, the Greek goddess of victory.
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The now-iconic Swoosh logo, designed by a college student named Carolyn Davidson for a mere $35 (though she later received additional stock in the company), debuted alongside the new name.
Innovation and Endorsements Fuel Growth (1970s-Onwards)
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Nike’s focus on innovation continued with the introduction of the revolutionary Air technology in 1979, which provided cushioning and responsiveness to athletes.
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The brand also understood the power of athlete endorsements. Romanian tennis star Ilie Năstase became the first athlete to sign with Nike in 1972, paving the way for future partnerships with legends like Michael Jordan.
From humble beginnings selling shoes out of a car trunk to a global sportswear leader, Nike’s story is one of innovation, dedication, and a touch of waffle iron inspiration. The swoosh has become a symbol of athletic achievement, worn by everyday athletes and world champions alike.