In a world where brands compete for attention with glitter, limited edition hoodies and viral campaigns, it's refreshing - almost touching - to see someone using their influence for something bigger than just profit. For more than two decades, Nike, the global sportswear titan, has been creating not just footwear and sports icons, but also a project that transforms children's life stories into meaningful fashion products.
At first glance, it may be “just” about SneakersBut each pair in this special program has its own story – and its own battle. It’s one of the most heartfelt and enduring projects in the sports industry, and Nike has already 21 years connecting his creative power with the courage of children, who are being treated at one of the best children's hospitals in the US. The result? Exceptional, unique collections of footwear and clothing that prove again and again that charity can look great - and that fashion really can change the world.
From idea to iconic sneakers: how a project that transcends fashion trends works
In 2004, Nike began a collaboration with Oregon Health & Science University Doernbecher Children's Hospital, with a simple but ingenious idea: to offer children undergoing treatment for serious illnesses the opportunity to design their own dream footwear. Thus was born the project we know today as Freestyle collection – a unique line of sneakers that is not based on trends, but on stories.
Every year, six children—patients at Doernbecher Hospital—get the chance to collaborate with Nike designers and developers. Together, they create a design collection over a period of months that goes beyond anything you've ever seen on store shelves. These aren't just sneakers. These are art therapy in the form of Air Maxes. These are diaries translated into colors, prints, and captions. This is children's imagination translated into design.
The project is no small experiment – from the beginning to today, Nike has raised more than 40 million dollars, which went entirely to support treatment, research and families in need. And not just for basic care, but also for the most advanced therapies that are sometimes not available anywhere else in the region – or in the world.
Freestyle 21: new collection, new chapters of courage
This year the collection celebrates Freestyle 21 – and as befits a mature, adult tradition, it brings boldness, freshness and an incredible story to each of the six young designers. Children who struggle with challenging illnesses, but still do not lose their childish sparkle. In fact – it is this that guides them through the design process.
This year's designs include reinterpretations of iconic models:
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- Nike V2K Run
- Nike Air Max 90
- Nike Air Force 1 '07
- Nike Air Max Dn8
- Nike Air Max Plus
- and for lovers of the classics – the legendary Air Jordan 17 Retro
Each design is a reflection of a child's interests, dreams and struggles: some love nature and bike repair, others are fascinated by stuffed animals, video games and ice cream. And yes, in some cases, there are drawings of ninja cats on the shoes. So what – if anyone is allowed to break the design rules, it's children who have learned that life rarely plays by the rules.
In addition to sneakers, this year for the first time also two-piece clothing line, which includes Men's Nike Club Fairway cardigan and T-shirts for adults and children. Each piece of clothing includes elements from all six shoes – as a kind of homage to collective creation.
Nike + Doernbecher: when collaboration is not a PR stunt, but a life mission
This project is much more than a donation. It is a core value shared by Nike and Doernbecher – commitment to improving livesThe project involves entire teams: doctors, nurses, designers, volunteers. Over the past two decades, more than 350 Nike employeeswho meet with children in real, deep processes of co-creation.
The process takes over nine months and for many of the participants, it is one of the most rewarding experiences of their careers. The children don’t just choose colors and materials – they work with the designers to create a holistic story that empowers them. And if you ask any of the children in these collections, the experience was not only fun, but also healing.
Where and when: how to get a couple that means more
New collection Freestyle 21 was first unveiled on October 17th at a special event in Portland, and is now preparing for a global release via the app SNKRS and in selected stores around the world this winter. As usual – stocks will be limited, but interest is huge.
While you might turn heads on the street with this pair of sneakers, there's more to these shoes than that. They're an expression of hope, perseverance, and creativity. And best of all – all profits from sales go directly to helping childrenwho fight for health.
Sneakers that leave a mark. Not just on the ground, but in hearts.
At a time when fashion collections are often forgotten a week after their release, Freestyle collection remains a lasting and powerful statement about what fashion can mean. These aren't sneakers for Instagram praise - these are sneakers you'll literally walk the charity aisle in.
