How Nike Shoes Began
Nike shoes come in a wide variety of styles and colors. They are worn by professional athletes as well as everyday folks who just want to make a fashion statement. You can find Nike sneakers at just about store that sells shoes. The famous Nike swoosh logo is probably one of the most recognized company logos of all time and is seen displayed around the world.
The famous Nike logo was created by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student studying at Portland State University in 1971. Nike co-founder, Phil Knight, wasn't excited about the swoosh but nevertheless paid Davidson $35 for her creation. His reaction: "I don't love it, but it will grow on me." Apparently it did grow on Knight as well as the rest of the world. The Nike swoosh is probably one of the most recognized logos on the globe. In 1983 after Davidson retired from the company, some sources claim that Knight gave her a diamond ring engraved with the swoosh as well as an undisclosed amount of Nike stock.
In 2008 Nike made a net income of $1.9 billion dollars. Not bad for a business that started with a couple of guys selling sneakers out of the back of their van. This is the perfect example of capitalism in action and what can happen if you set goals and work hard. As of late, the company has received bad press due to claims associated with poor working environments and human rights issues with workers overseas.
The name Nike comes from the Greek goddess of victory, and like many other successful companies, had a humble beginning. Philip Knight was a track athlete at the University of Oregon and joined up with his coach, Bill Bowerman, in 1964 to sell shoes out of their cars at track meets. At that time they called themselves Blue Ribbon Sports.
Originally, the duo sold shoes developed by a Japanese manufacturer but ended their relationship with the company in 1971. In 1971 they developed their own line of footwear made especially for football and decided to call it Nike. Soon they introduced more lines of shoes. In 1978, they dropped the Blue Ribbon Sports name and by 1980, 50% of shoes sold in the United States carried the Nike brand.
The Nike company still has headquarters in Oregon and currently owns several subsidiaries including Umbro and Converse. At one time, Nike also owned Bauer Hockey and Starter.
Nike Shoes continue to be popular today among professional athletes, sports enthusiasts, and those just looking for a comfortable and attractive pair of sneakers. While Nike is often criticized by others for its mass appeal, I'm sure the co-founders would argue that success never comes easy.
About the Author:
Carol is an avid shopper and likes to write articles that help people find the best deals on cheap Kangaroos shoes and cheap Puma shoes online.
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