NIKE
Quick history
Nike began in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports, founded by track athlete Phil Knight and coach Bill Bowerman, before becoming Nike in 1971. Built around the idea of pushing human performance forward, the brand quickly became known for innovative sneakers, bold marketing, and its signature Swoosh logo. From the Air Force 1 to Air Jordans, Nike shaped not just sportswear but global street style. Over time, it moved beyond athletics, becoming a cultural symbol tied to identity, aspiration, and self-expression across music, fashion, and youth culture.
Why it mattered
-
It turned athletic gear into everyday streetwear and cultural currency
-
It connected sport, music, and style into a single global visual language
Why it shows up at Diversity
-
Nike pieces get re-styled in queer, club, and street scenes as expressive fashion, not just workout gear
-
Resale keeps iconic sneakers and garments circulating instead of being replaced by new fast-produced items