Nike reveals winner of inclusive design challenge
26/04/2017
The competition aimed to inspire innovative solutions that help athletes, including those with disabilities, to put on, secure and take off their shoes.
Nike revealed that it received submissions from all corners of the US. They were considered based on ease-of-use, performance, and potential to expand across various sizes and styles.
Three finalists visited Nike’s World Headquarters in Oregon to present their solution to a panel of judges that included Nike chairman and CEO, Mark Parker, and a range of Nike designers and athletes.
Mr Drake was chosen for an adaptive fit system based on Nike’s 2016 Hyperdunk shoe (pictured). It features a rear entry system, inspired by snowboard bindings, which uses powerful, lightweight magnets to transform the heel into a ‘drawbridge’ for a simple, wide entry and exit area. Nike explained that the magnets do not add significantly to the weight of the shoe, but are strong enough to keep the foot locked in.
As well as receiving the $50,000 first prize, Mr Drake will collaborate with Nike in the prototyping phase and begin testing his innovation.
Image courtesy of Nike.
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