Does Nike Make Bowling Shoes? The Surprising Truth About Nike and Bowling
As a sneaker enthusiast and occasional bowler, I've often wondered: does Nike make bowling shoes? It's a question that might seem odd at first, but there's more to this story than you might think.
To answer the question directly: Nike doesn't currently make bowling shoes as part of their regular product line. If you walk into a bowling alley or browse popular bowling equipment stores today, you won't find Nike bowling shoes on the shelves.
However, here's where it gets interesting. Nike did, in fact, make bowling shoes in the past. Back in 1986, Nike released a line of bowling shoes.
These vintage Nike bowling shoes are now considered collector's items among sneaker enthusiasts and bowling fans alike.
They featured the classic Nike design elements of the time, combined with the specialized soles needed for bowling.
While Nike isn't in the bowling shoe business today, they haven't completely forgotten about the sport.
In 2015, Nike released the Zoom CJ Trainer 3 "Bowling" edition. This wasn't a true bowling shoe, but rather a sneaker inspired by bowling aesthetics.
It featured details like lane-inspired numbering on the back and marbled patterns reminiscent of bowling balls.
So why doesn't Nike make bowling shoes now? It's likely a matter of market focus. Nike primarily concentrates on major sports and lifestyle wear. Bowling, while popular, is a niche market when it comes to specialized footwear.
For those looking for high-quality bowling shoes today, there are several brands that specialize in this area.
Companies like Dexter, Brunswick, and Storm are well-known for their bowling shoes and offer a wide range of options for both casual and professional bowlers.
In conclusion, while Nike does not make bowling shoes currently, they have an interesting history with the sport.
From actual bowling shoes in the '80s to bowling-inspired sneakers in recent years, Nike has shown that they're not afraid to step into the bowling lane, even if just for a moment.
About the author
I'm the Head of Research at Cases.gg. With over 5 years in the mystery box niche, I've gained deep expertise in this field. My knowledge comes from years of hands-on experience and close study of the industry. I provide insights based on real-world data and trends in the mystery box market.