Fact 1: The Origination of Nike’s Legendary Swoosh Logo
Many people recognize Nike's swoosh. But, did you know it was designed by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student at the time, in 1971? She was paid a mere $35 for her work. Phil Knight, the founder of Nike, was initially hesitant about the logo but, eventually, the mark became an emblem of inspiration for athletes worldwide.
Fact 2: Nike's Original Name Wasn't Nike
That's right! The brand was initially named "Blue Ribbon Sports" and functioned as the distributor for Onitsuka Tiger in the United States, a Japanese shoe maker. It wasn't until 1971 that the founders decided to branch out and start their own line of athletic footwear, which resulted in the creation of the Nike brand.
Fact 3: The Name "Nike" Came from a Dream
The name Nike originates from Greek mythology. Nike is the Goddess of Victory. Interestingly, co-founder Phil Knight got the idea in his dream. Initially, he wanted to use the name "Dimension Six." However, that night, the name "Nike" popped up in his dream, and the rest is history.
Fact 4: The First Nike Shoes Were Made in a Waffle Iron
Interestingly, the first Nike running shoes' soles were made with a waffle iron. The idea came from Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman during breakfast. He thought the waffle pattern could provide the necessary grip on track surfaces while being lightweight.
Fact 5: Nike's "Just Do It" Tagline Was Inspired by a Death Row Inmate’s Last Words
The motivating slogan "Just Do It" was inspired by the chilling last words of convicted murderer Gary Gilmore, who said "Let's do it" right before being executed. Nike's advertising agency turned it into a universally relatable and inspiring tagline.
Fact 6: Nike's First Endorsement Deal Was With Ilie Năstase
While many remember the legendary relationship between Nike and Michael Jordan, the first endorsement deal was with Romanian tennis player Ilie Năstase, before the brand became official. This happened in 1972, two years before the inception of Nike as a brand.
Fact 7: Apple and Nike Collaboration
In 2006, Nike and Apple collaborated to create Nike+. This technology allows Nike footwear to communicate with an iPod Nano, tracking and reporting a runner's metrics as they train.
Fact 8: Nike's Air Technology Wasn’t Developed In-house
Nike's Air technology is famous across the globe. Surprisingly, it wasn't devised in-house. It was originally created by inventor Frank Rudy, an aeronautical engineer, who pitched the idea of using encapsulated air for cushioning to Nike in 1977.
Fact 9: Michael Jordan Initially Didn’t Want to Sign With Nike
Nike's association with Michael Jordan transformed the industry. But originally, Jordan wanted to sign with Adidas. Adidas couldn't match Nike's offer, and ironically, the Air Jordan series became one of the most successful sneaker lines.
Fact 10: Nike Has a World Headquarters with Quite a Campus
Nike is headquartered in Oregon, USA. This 286-acre property has state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple gymnasiums, heated pools, running tracks, and even a man-made lake.
Fact 11: Nike Is the Biggest Employer of Coaches in the U.S
Nike employs over 1,000 coaches in a variety of sports across their U.S locations. This is to maintain a culture of sport and fitness among their researchers, designers, marketers and other employees.
Fact 12: Nike's Largest Store Is in Dubai
The world’s largest Nike store is located in Dubai. It opened in 2018 and covers an impressive 35,400 square feet over three stories.
Fact 13: Nike Has a Sole Collection Program
Nike runs a program called Nike Grind that collects and recycles old athletic shoes (not just Nike brand) into surfaces for tracks, playgrounds, and sports courts.
Fact 14: Amazon and Nike's Past Partnership
For a brief period, Nike sold products directly on Amazon as a part of a pilot program. The partnership ended in 2019 when Nike decided to focus on selling directly to customers.
Fact 15: Diversity in Nike’s Executive Board
Nike prides itself on its diverse leadership. It is one of the few top companies where the number of women in executive positions outnumbers men.
Fact 16: Nike Sponsors More Than 50% of The Top 100 Tennis Players
Nike's presence in tennis world is prominent. As of 2021, they sponsored over 50% of the top 100 tennis players in the world, securing their footprint in this athletic segment.
Fact 17: Nike's Environmental Impact Efforts
Nike is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. By 2025, they aim to power all their owned or operated facilities with 100% renewable energy.
Fact 18: Rory McIlroy's Record-Breaking Deal With Nike
The biggest deal Nike has ever signed with an athlete is not Jordan, but golfer Rory McIlroy. The ten-year endorsement deal signed in 2013 is reportedly worth $250 million.
Fact 19: The Use of 3D Printing in Prototyping
Nike uses 3D printing technology to accelerate the prototyping process. They can now create a fully functional running spike plate tailored to individual athletes within hours.
Fact 20: Nike’s Philanthropic Activities
Nike established the Nike Foundation in 1994. It aims to help disadvantaged youth around the world by providing financial and other resources to organizations that aid them. Through this foundation, Nike has donated millions to charities worldwide.