200 Nike Facts That You Didn't Know!

Nike has been a household name in the sports industry since its inception in the early 1960s. The brand is synonymous with quality, trend, and creativity, and it has inspired deep-rooted fan loyalty from all over the world. In this blog post, we’ll uncover 200 incredible facts about Nike to help you understand what the brand is all about.

From the brand’s early days to its current status as one of the world’s largest sporting goods manufacturers, we’ve researched an all-encompassing list of Nike knowledge that will engage both shoe lovers and passionate Nike fans alike.

What Nike’s all about

Nike, Inc., originally known as Blue Ribbon Sports, was established in the 1960s by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman, with a mission to deliver innovation to athletes around the globe. With its iconic ‘Swoosh’ logo and “Just Do It” slogan, Nike has redefined sportswear aesthetics, prioritizing both performance and style.

The brand’s innovative approach extends to its product line, which ranges from footwear and apparel to sports equipment, all designed with cutting-edge technology.

Nike’s strategy also focuses on sustainability, highlighting its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting social responsibility. The brand’s influence extends beyond sports, shaping streetwear, pop culture, and even the tech industry with its ventures into digital platforms and apps.

Now that we’ve introduced what Nike is all about, let’s delve deeper into some intriguing 200 facts about Nike.

Fact category 1 – History

Nike was originally called Blue Ribbon Sports for the first seven years of its existence.
The famous ‘Swoosh’ logo of Nike was designed by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student, for just $35.
Nike’s first shoe design was made by co-founder Bill Bowerman by pouring rubber into a waffle iron.
The “Just Do It” tagline was inspired by a convicted murderer’s last words, “Let’s do it.”
Nike’s first TV commercial aired in 1982 and featured Walt Stack, a 80-year old running enthusiast.
Michael Jordan’s contract with Nike in 1984 for the Air Jordan sneakers was worth $500,000 per year for five years.
Nike became the official sponsor of the NFL in 2012, taking over from Reebok.
Nike’s employees have access to an onsite sports center, which includes a swimming pool, soccer field, and fitness center.
Nike’s headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon span over 400 acres.
The Nike name was inspired by the Greek goddess of victory.
Nike’s ‘Air’ technology, which was first used in 1979, was inspired by a trip that NASA astronaut Frank Rudy took to help design the cushioning on the soles of Nike shoes.
Nike began collaborating with Apple in 2006 to create products, including the iPod Sport Kit.
Pro golfer Rory McIlroy signed a $250 million, 10-year contract with Nike in 2013.
Nike purchased Converse in 2003 for $305 million.
Nike’s first self-lacing sneakers, the HyperAdapt 1.0, launched in 2016, with a price tag of $720.
Nike was the first company to endorse an openly gay athlete, Martina Navratilova in 1983.
Nike’s origins as a shoe importer started with Japanese manufacturers and was later taken over by Chinese manufacturers.
The famous Nike Air Max 1 was nearly called the “Nike Air Bernard,” after Nike’s advertising manager, Bernie Marcus.
Nike has a research lab called the Nike Sport Research Lab in Beaverton, Oregon where scientists work to create innovative athletic products.
The Nike FuelBand was launched in 2012 and was intended to measure and encourage daily physical activity.
Nike has been associated with NBA legend LeBron James for 18 years, starting with his high school endorsement deal.
Nike ended their sponsorship deal with Lance Armstrong in 2012 after the cyclist was found to be using performance-enhancing drugs.
Nike’s famous slogan “Just Do It” was coined in 1988 by advertising executive Dan Wieden.
24. Nike made a special edition sneaker for former President Barack Obama in 2019 called the Hyperdunk X.
Nike was the first company to produce sneakers specifically for the Olympics, which were used during the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich.

Fact category 2 – Innovations

The Nike shoes with their iconic “swoosh” logo were created in 1971 by Carolyn Davidson. She was paid just $35 for her incredible work. The brand initially didn’t love the logo but eventually, the logo became one of the most recognizable logos worldwide.
The first Nike shoe ever created was the “Moon Shoe” which was made in 1972 for the US Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon. Only 12 pairs of these shoes were ever made.
The Air Jordan was initially banned by the NBA for its bright red and black color, which didn’t match the NBA’s dress code. This decision turned out to be a blessing for Nike as it helped them create a massive hype around the shoe.
One of the most innovative materials used by Nike in their shoes is Flywire. This technology uses thin, strong, durable, and lightweight fibers that provide support and makes the shoe incredibly lightweight.
Nike’s Air technology, which has been used in many of their shoes since the 1980s, uses compressed air as its cushioning element, making the shoe incredibly comfortable while ensuring the durability of the design.
Nike is the first company to introduce a self-lacing shoe called Nike HyperAdapt 1.0 in 2016. The shoes use an internal cable system that automatically adjusts to the shape of the wearer’s foot.
Nike has been experimenting with 3D printing and has developed a technology called “Flyprint”. It is made of printed sheets of thermoplastic they claim make the shoe 15% lighter than the Flyknit.
Nike used 3D printing to create the plates worn by athletes during the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The studs on sprinter Michael Johnson’s custom-made shoes were 50% lighter than previous designs.
Thanks to Nike’s Zoom X foam, the Breaking2 Project was born. They developed a shoe called the Nike Vaporfly Elite that helped three top distance runners get closer to breaking the two-hour barrier for the marathon.
Nike also pioneered the concept of “Visible Air” using a little window on the sneakers to show the shoe cushioning.
Nike athletes’ performance data is continuously being collected, and they use that information to help them develop new shoes and bring new innovations to their line.
The Nike+ running app was launched in 2010 as the first app powered by Nike+ technology. It allows users to track their running statistics and compete with others around the world.
Nike has a robust sustainability program which includes initiatives for designing sustainable products, reducing their greenhouse-gas emissions, and upcycling old shoes into new products.
Nike developed a technology called “Dri-FIT” that wicks sweat away from your skin, keeping you comfortable and dry while you train.
In 2015, Nike released the “Nike Air Max Zero,” which was based on a design created by Tinker Hatfield in 1985, but never released to the public.
Nike has developed several shoes that can be customized using the Nike ID program. This program allows you to customize several aspects of the design, such as the color on the upper, laces or even the midsole.
Nike has created basketball shoes like the “LeBron X” which have sensors to track how high you jump and how hard you land to help prevent injuries.
Nike has developed a technology called “Reax” that provides responsive, lightweight, and durable cushioning in shoes.
Nike developed an app called the “Nike Training Club” with workouts designed by professional athletes and trainers.
The “Nike Free” shoe was designed to strengthen the foot by mimicking the motion of running barefoot, while still providing some level of cushioning.
Nike’s “Shield Pack” includes shoes and clothing made with a waterproof material to keep you dry in bad weather.
“FlyEase” is a technology developed by Nike that makes it easier for athletes with disabilities and their caregivers to get their shoes on and off.
Nike has been using recycled materials to make clothing and shoes since 1992.
Nike has introduced new technology called “React” which is a combination of cushioning and responsiveness that makes the shoe comfortable and durable.
Nike’s Joyride technology, introduced in 2019, uses small beads to provide a personalized and comfortable ride.

Fact category 3 – Sponsorships and partnerships

Michael Jordan: The first partnership Nike ever made was with Michael Jordan, who need no introduction, in 1984. Together they released the first Air Jordan shoe, which quickly become the brand’s bestseller.
Cristiano Ronaldo: In 2003, Nike partnered with the Portuguese soccer player, Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been the face of the company ever since.
Serena Williams: Serena Williams has been wearing Nike outfits since she was 19-years-old.
Tiger Woods: Nike has been sponsoring Tiger Woods since he was a rookie, and he continues to endorse Nike to this day.
Lebron James: Nike’s partnership with Lebron James began in 2003, and he has since become one of the company’s biggest endorsements.
Colin Kaepernick: Nike made a bold move in 2018, endorsing quarterback Colin Kaepernick, known for his activism and taking the knee during the national anthem.
US Women’s Soccer: Nike has been sponsoring the US Women’s Soccer team since 1995.
Kobe Bryant: In 2001, Nike signed Kobe Bryant for a five-year deal worth $40 million.
Kevin Durant: Nike has a shoe line dedicated to Kevin Durant since 2008.
Mo Farah: Mo Farah has been associated with Nike since 2010, and the company specially designed the Nike Zoom Fly SP Mo Farah shoe for him in 2018.
Travis Scott: In 2017, Nike partnered with rapper Travis Scott and launched the Travis Scott x Nike Air Force 1 collaboration, which is still a fan favorite.
Odell Beckham Jr: Nike signed a highly lucrative deal with NFL player Odell Beckham Jr. in 2017.
Virgil Abloh: Nike partnered with Virgil Abloh in 2017, who gave Nike’s clothing line a much-needed streetwear upgrade.
Kyle Kuzma: To celebrate Kuzma’s ascension in the NBA, Nike signed a multi-year shoe deal with him in 2019.
Justin Gallegos: The University of Oregon student became the first athlete with cerebral palsy to sign a Nike shoe deal.
Liverpool FC: Nike signed a five-year deal with Liverpool FC, the Premier League champions, in January 2020.
Duke University: Nike scored a sponsorship deal with Duke University’s basketball team.
Lance Armstrong: Nike dropped Lance Armstrong after his doping scandal in 2012.
Maria Sharapova: Nike sponsored Maria Sharapova for over a decade, which came to an end in 2018.
Rafael Nadal: Nike has been a sponsor of Rafael Nadal ever since the tennis star was 12 years old.
Neymar Jr: Nike has been associated with Brazilian soccer player Neymar Jr. since 2005.
Andre Agassi: Andre Agassi was one of the first athletes to receive a lifetime endorsement deal with Nike.
Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant Foundation: In 2020, Nike announced a multi-year partnership with the Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant Foundation.
The Chicago Bulls: It is believed that Nike’s Air Jordan shoes helped boost sales for the Chicago Bulls.
Oregon Football: Nike’s founders initially started their company as a way to create new and innovative football cleats for the University of Oregon football team.

Fact category 4 – Controversies

Child Labor: In the 1990s, it was revealed that Nike was using child labor in its factories in developing countries. This sparked a massive public outrage that forced the company to change its labor practices.
Sweatshops: Nike has been accused of using sweatshops to produce its products in developing countries. Many workers have allegedly been subjected to poor working conditions, low wages, and long hours.
Environmental Damage: In addition to labor issues, Nike has also been accused of causing environmental damage in the areas where it operates. The company has been criticized for its use of toxic chemicals in its manufacturing processes.
Colin Kaepernick: Nike sparked controversy in 2018 when it featured former NFL player Colin Kaepernick in an advertising campaign. Kaepernick had become a controversial figure for his protests against police brutality and racial injustice.
Tiger Woods: Nike was accused of taking advantage of golfer Tiger Woods’ infidelity scandal by running an ad campaign featuring the slogan “Winning takes care of everything.”
Michael Vick: Nike faced backlash for signing a sponsorship deal with NFL quarterback Michael Vick after he was convicted of running a dogfighting ring.
Lance Armstrong: Nike ended its endorsement deal with cyclist Lance Armstrong in 2012 after it was revealed that he had used performance-enhancing drugs.
Women’s Soccer Pay: Nike has been criticized for its role in the ongoing dispute over pay equity in women’s soccer. Many female players have accused the company of not doing enough to support their fight for equal pay.
LeBron James: Nike faced backlash for releasing a line of shoes called “LeBron 12” that featured a design that some critics claimed resembled a Jewish symbol.
Sports Hijab: Nike faced backlash and controversy over its decision to release a sports hijab for Muslim female athletes.
Phil Knight: Nike founder Phil Knight faced controversy over his donations to conservative political candidates.
China Labor: Nike faced protests and controversy over reports of poor working conditions at its factories in China.
Andre Agassi: Nike was accused of exploiting tennis player Andre Agassi’s personal problems for its own branding purposes.
Racial Bias: Nike has faced criticism over the years for its handling of racial bias issues within the company.
Serena Williams: Nike faced a backlash in 2018 when tennis star Serena Williams was banned from wearing her signature “catsuit” outfit at the French Open.
Michael Jordan: Nike faced a lawsuit over allegations that it had stolen the “Jumpman” logo from a photographer.
Transgender Athletes: Nike faced controversy over its release of a line of clothing specifically designed for transgender athletes.
Kendrick Lamar: Nike faced backlash for featuring rapper Kendrick Lamar in an advertising campaign despite his controversial lyrics about police brutality.
Oregon Health Science University: Nike faced a controversy over its donations to the Oregon Health Science University after it was revealed that the university was conducting experiments on monkeys.
Indiana Religious Freedom Bill: Nike faced backlash for opposing the Indiana Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which many critics claimed would allow discrimination against LGBTQ individuals.
New York Times Controversy: Nike faced controversy in 2018 after The New York Times published an article accusing the company of having a “boys’ club” culture.
Kaepernick’s NFL Protest: Nike faced even more backlash in 2018 when Colin Kaepernick was revealed as the face of a new ad campaign that focused on his protest against racial injustice in the NFL.
Basketball Sneaker Controversy: Nike faced criticism in 2017 after a college basketball player’s sneaker disintegrated during a game, which many fans and critics claimed was due to poor quality.
Kobe Bryant: Nike faced backlash over its handling of the #MeToo allegations against NBA player Kobe Bryant.
Muslim Ban: Nike released an advertising campaign in 2017 that featured Muslim athletes in response to the proposed “Muslim Ban” by the Trump administration.

Fact category 5 – Financials

Nike’s current revenue is a staggering $40 billion.
The company was founded in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, and it wasn’t until 1980 that Nike went public.
More than 60% of Nike’s revenue comes from footwear sales.
Nike spends more than $3 billion a year on marketing.
In 2020, the company spent $8.23 billion on research and development.
Nike is the most valuable apparel brand in the world, with a brand value of $32 billion.
The company is responsible for producing the uniforms for more than 80% of the top football teams in Europe.
Nike had over 75,000 employees worldwide in 2020.
The brand’s Swoosh logo was designed by a graphic design student named Carolyn Davidson in 1971, who was paid only $35 for her services.
In 2020, Nike’s net income was $2.5 billion.
Nike’s biggest competitors include Adidas, Puma, and Under Armour.
The company has more than a 30% market share in the athletic apparel industry.
Nike’s products are sold in more than 190 countries worldwide.
The company has a plan to invest $2 billion in sustainable initiatives.
The Nike Air Max 1 shoe was first released in 1987 and has since become an iconic and highly sought-after sneaker.
Nike’s Jordan brand accounts for more than $2.8 billion in annual revenue.
Nike’s first athlete endorsement was with the Romanian tennis player, Ilie Năstase in 1972.
Nike has been criticized for using sweatshop labor in the past, but they have since taken steps to improve working conditions.
Nike has formed a partnership with NASA to create new materials for their shoes and apparel.
The company’s revenue for online sales has increased by over 82% over the last year.
Nike has over 1,000 retail stores worldwide.
Nike’s stock price has increased by over 130% since 2015.
In 2020, Nike donated $17.5 million to organizations promoting social justice causes.
Nike’s biggest individual shareholder is co-founder Phil Knight, who owns over 80 million shares in the company.
Nike’s tagline, “Just Do It” was inspired by the last words of convicted murderer Gary Gilmore.

Fact category 6 – Philanthropy and Social Initiatives

Nike has donated more than $330 million, and the number is still increasing.
Nike’s generosity is admirable. The company has donated over $330 million to various causes globally, including education, social justice, and sports.
The Nike Go program encourages girls to partake in sports.
The Nike Go program is an initiative founded by Nike with the goal of helping girls in developing nations to overcome cultural barriers and participate in sports.
Nike co-founded the Sustainable Apparel Coalition.
The Sustainable Apparel Coalition is a group of fashion companies collaborating to decrease the fashion industry’s environmental impact. Nike is one of the founding members of the coalition.
Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe recycles over 30 million pairs of shoes yearly.
Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe program takes used athletic shoes and recycles them into new materials for manufacturing products like running tracks and playground surfaces. Annually, the program repurposes over 30 million pairs of footwear.
Nike & NFL pledge to help underrepresented youths.
In 2019, Nike and the NFL pledged to donate $5 million to organizations working on advancing equality in education, criminal justice reform, and community and police relations.
Nike pledged to be carbon neutral by 2025.
Nike has committed to minimizing its carbon footprint, by pledging to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025, and progressively innovating and lowering GHG emissions through technology.
Nike’s community Impact Fund is helping to build and sustain safe and healthy communities in Memphis, Tennessee, where the company’s largest distribution center is located.
Nike teamed up with MTV to improve physical education for children.
Nike and MTV collaborated to launch the Let’s Move It program, providing free, interactive physical education content for children and teenagers.
Nike partnered with United Nations Refugee Agency to help refugees.
As part of its Earth Day celebrations, Nike partnered with the United Nations Refugee Agency with the goal of providing children in refugee camps with sportswear and equipment, while also creating a safe space for them to play.
Nike’s Coach Development Program aims to empower youth coaches.
The company’s Coach Development Program helps youth soccer coaches worldwide use soccer to empower young people and in turn create positive community impact.
Nike’s partnership with Peace Players International brings hope to communities affected by conflict.
PeacePlayers International is an association that brings together children from different sides of the communal divide, using sports to break down barriers. Nike supports and funds the organization to assist in conflict areas.
Nike partnered with Good360 to help rebuild after natural disasters.
Nike often collaborates with other organizations like Good360 to donate footwear and apparel for disaster relief programs. The company also aids in rebuilding affected communities.
Nike partnered with LeBron James to provide students and families with better educational resources.
LeBron James and Nike have developed the Moving the Game Forward program, which is aimed at helping students in Akron, Ohio, attain access to educational resources that they require to succeed.

Fact category 7 – Global Reach and Expansion

Nike has a presence in more than 170 countries.
Nike’s revenue crosses $37 billion globally, as per the recent fiscal reports.
Nike’s European headquarters is located in the Netherlands.
In Asia, Nike’s largest markets are China and Japan.
Nike operates more than 1,000 retail stores worldwide.
Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign is recognized globally, becoming a universal slogan for empowerment.
Nike has multiple manufacturing facilities across Asia, including China, India, and Vietnam.
Nike’s Global Operations team manages the production of millions of products each year.
Nike’s commitment to sustainability is visible in its global operations with many eco-friendly facilities.
Nike has extended its reach to the digital realm with its online store and mobile apps.
Nike sponsors international sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics.
Nike collaborates with global sports stars, including Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Nike’s products are available in a variety of international sizes to accommodate consumers worldwide.
Nike’s global community impact initiatives reach communities in every corner of the world.
Nike’s Flyknit technology, an innovation in shoemaking, was introduced globally in 2012.
Nike takes an active role in global environmental initiatives such as the Paris Climate Agreement.
Nike’s research and development activities are spread across different countries.
Nike’s global supply chain involves more than one million workers.
Nike’s digital transformation efforts have allowed it to expand rapidly in emerging markets.
Nike’s international websites cater to multiple languages and currencies.
Nike has a robust international distribution network, including its own retail stores, e-commerce, and third-party retailers.
Nike’s global employee base represents a mix of backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives.
Nike’s international growth strategy focuses on direct-to-consumer sales and digital experiences.
Nike’s sponsorship of global athletes and teams has expanded its reach to sports fans worldwide.
Nike’s global headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon reflects the company’s innovative spirit and commitment to sustainability.

Fact category 8 – Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives

Nike is committed to reducing its carbon footprint in all areas of its business.
The company’s “Move to Zero” campaign is aimed at achieving zero carbon and waste.
Nike is a signatory to the UN Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action.
The company is striving to use 100% renewable energy across its owned or operated facilities by 2025.
Nike has invested in wind and solar projects across the globe.
The brand’s Flyleather innovation uses at least 50% recycled leather fiber, reducing water usage by 90%.
Nike Grind is a program that transforms manufacturing waste into new products.
Nike uses more than 6 billion recycled plastic bottles to create its polyester sportswear.
The Space Hippie is an exploratory footwear collection featuring Nike’s lowest carbon footprint scores.
Nike creates performance gear with recycled polyester, reducing their carbon emissions by nearly half compared to virgin polyester.
The company has set a goal to divert 99% of all footwear manufacturing waste from landfills.
Nike has achieved about 80% of renewable energy in its North America operations.
The Reuse-A-Shoe program, launched in 1993, recycles old sneakers into playground surfaces.
Nike has reduced its energy usage per unit by implementing energy-efficiency initiatives.
The company is part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment.
Nike’s distribution centers, like the one in Ham, Belgium, use renewable energy and recycling programs.
The company is committed to removing all hazardous chemicals from its supply chain.
Nike is moving towards water-free dyeing technologies to reduce water usage.
Nike’s Circular Design Guide helps designers make products that last longer and are easier to recycle.
The company is working towards sourcing 100% of their cotton more sustainably by 2020.
Nike’s building design strategy includes a focus on natural light, improved air quality, and renewable energy.
The company has phased out the use of harmful substances like perfluorinated compounds in their materials.
Nike’s Braamfontein office in South Africa is powered solely by renewable energy.
The company aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions across its global supply chain by 30% by 2030.
Nike has a goal to power owned or operated facilities with 100% renewable energy by 2025.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nike is more than just a global footwear and apparel company. Its commitment to innovation, community impact, and sustainability, combined with a broad international presence, makes it a truly unique brand. From its universally recognized “Just Do It” campaign to its pioneering Flyknit technology, Nike consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.

Moreover, its robust environmental initiatives reflect an earnest commitment to sustainable practices and a healthier planet. As we look to the future, there’s no doubt that Nike will continue shaping the landscape of sports and fashion, while making a lasting positive impact on communities worldwide.