In 2021 Nike saw a revenue of nearly $45 billion. With its roots in Oregon Nike has become the number one sneaker all over the world. That was not always the case.
Bill Bowerman and a former student of his Phil Knight started Nike in 1964. The company began as a shoe Blue Ribbon Sports. Selling mainly track shoes at meets for Onitsuka Tiger (now Asics) under the name Blue Ribbon Sports. Blue Ribbon continued to distribute for Onitsuka until 1971.
After parting ways with the Japanese shoe maker BRS launched their very first shoe during the 1972 Summer Olympics. The swoosh was first used in 1971 which was designed by Carolyn Davidson. It wasn’t until the the late 80s and 90s Nike expanded its product line and reached other regions.
As Nike continued to grow so did their hold on the sneaker industry. Through their history Nike’s acquisitions help them reach other markets. These acquisitions include Cole Haan and Bauer Hockey. They also purchased surf company Hurley and Converse. Any sneakerhead knows that Converse were the first true basketball shoe.
Some of their most notable shoes include the Cortez, Air Max, Air Force 1, and the ever so popular Air Jordan. Stay tuned as we dive into the origins and some of the most popular shoes form
