Nike

Nike, founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports by University of Oregon track athlete Phil Knight and his coach Bill Bowerman, initially sold running shoes imported from the Japanese brand Onitsuka Tiger before officially becoming Nike in 1971. The company established itself through innovative products such as the waffle-sole running shoe developed by Bowerman and later pioneering Air cushioning technology. Nike significantly expanded its presence by securing high-profile endorsements from renowned athletes like Michael Jordan, whose Air Jordan sneakers became a cornerstone of sneaker culture. Notable collaborations with influential designers and brands such as Virgil Abloh's OFF-White, sacai, and Supreme, have further solidified Nike's position within the spheres of fashion and sports.