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Each year, Nike visits the Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Oregon to seek out a team of young and talented designer's. In what's known as the Doernbecher Freestyle, this annual collection has raised nearly $20 million for the hospital, advancing research and improving care.
This year's collection recently got unveiled with six of Doernbecher's patients given full creative rights across some of Nike's most iconic silhouettes. Meet the designers below and learn more about their inspirational story.
Nike Air Force 1 Low designed by Chloe Swientek, 10
Chloe suffers from Cystic Fibrosis but that doesn't hold her back. Far from it as she scrutinised over the design process to make sure this Air Force 1 was just right, "We did a few versions before we landed on the right one."; This colourful rendition features "Cure"; on the right cupsole.
Jordan XV by Donovon Dinneen, 11
Donovan's passion for anime cartoons provides the inspiration for his Jordan XV. An embossed scaly dragon print features throughout as well as subtle detailing which nods to family members. "I enjoyed all of the creating,"; he says. "My team had really good ideas.";
Nike Air Max 97 by Kirsten Brown, 16
Kristen's shoe is inspired by her heart transplant with the date of that life-saving procedure featuring across the shoe. An 'SRVVR' graphic also features to the sidewall in a purple contrast to the dark upper. "My favourite part about designing a shoe was seeing all of the ideas I had with my team,"; says Kirsten.
Nike SB Dunk Pro Low by Joey Bates, 12
Joey combines three of his passions for this unique SB Dunk; his favourite football team, a turtle figurine from Hawaii and his favourite animal - a chicken! The result is nothing short of eye-catching. An American flag finishes the look to the tongue.
Nike Air Max 270 by Aiden Barber, 9
Aiden chose the full camo treatment for his Air Max 270 as a shout-out to his cousin who's serving in the army. He clearly appreciated being in control, "It kind of felt like being the boss!"; says Aiden. "I told my team, 'Are you ready for this?";
Nike Zoom Fly SP by Payton Fentress, 12
Payton absolutely loves baseball, so it would make sense that his design pays homage to the sport. A baseball-stitch graphic extends to the inner sock liner and several other details pull inspiration from homeruns and strikeouts. The hardest part for Payton was not including all of the design ideas, "I can't just pick one favourite thing!"; he says.
The 2018 Nike Doernbecher Freestyle Collection launches on December 14th. Stay glued to @thesolesupplier for more updates and alerts!
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