NIKE VINTAGE  - THE COLLECTION OF VINTAGE SHOES
 

Vintage Nike, a powerful and committed brand, a recognizable logo among thousands. While the sportswear and sports equipment market was very largely dominated by German companies, William J. Bill Bowerman and Philip H. Knight decided to join forces in order to found a sports brand capable of competing with the many European competitors. Philip Knight, accountant and long-distance runner teamed up with Bill Bowerman, athletics coach for the Oregon team to create a less expensive and accessible brand for athletes. It will initially be called Blue Ribbon Sports. Bowerman notably serves as a technical advisor within the firm and uses his coaching position to test the products directly with the players of the Oregon team. In 1965, they were both joined by full-time brand salesman Jeff Johnson. It is he who will establish the guideline of the company (still current): to be as close as possible to the athlete and his expectations. He will also give it his name: Nike, directly inspired by the goddess Nikè, symbolizing victory and determination.