Nike was founded in 1964 by track coach Bill Bowerman and his former athlete Phil Knight, initially operating under the name Blue Ribbon Sports before officially becoming Nike in 1971. In its early days, the company imported and sold athletic shoes from Japan, later shifting to designing its own footwear, notably introducing the groundbreaking "Waffle Trainer" with its unique outsole pattern for enhanced traction. Nike has consistently innovated through technologies like Air cushioning, Flyknit fabric, and Vaporfly running shoes, establishing itself as a leader in performance footwear. Prominent endorsement deals with legendary athletes such as Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, and LeBron James, along with high-profile collaborations including partnerships with brands like OFF-WHITE and artists such as Travis Scott, have further solidified Nike’s influential position in global sportswear and popular culture.
