When Was Nike Founded? The Birth of a Sporting Giant

When was Nike founded? This question takes us back to the mid-1960s, a time when the sports industry was on the brink of a revolution. Nike, as we know it today, wasn't born overnight.

It's a story of innovation, perseverance, and a bit of waffle iron magic.

The seeds of Nike were planted on January 25, 1964. On this date, University of Oregon track athlete Phil Knight and his coach, Bill Bowerman, founded Blue Ribbon Sports (BRS). This was the company that would eventually evolve into Nike.

Initially, BRS operated as a distributor for Japanese shoe maker Onitsuka Tiger. Knight would sell shoes from the trunk of his car at track meets. It was a humble beginning, but the foundation was being laid for something much bigger.

The company officially became Nike, Inc. on May 30, 1971. The name "Nike" was inspired by the Greek goddess of victory, a fitting choice for a brand that would go on to dominate the sports world.

1971 was a pivotal year for another reason too. It's when Carolyn Davidson designed the famous Swoosh logo, which has become one of the most recognizable brand symbols in the world.

The 1970s saw rapid growth for Nike. Bill Bowerman's waffle iron experiments led to the development of the innovative waffle sole in 1974, a game-changer in running shoe design.

By 1980, Nike had claimed a 50% market share in the U.S. athletic shoe market, and the company went public in December of that year.

The iconic "Just Do It" slogan, which has motivated athletes and non-athletes alike, was introduced in 1988.

So, while Nike's roots stretch back to 1964, the Nike we know today truly came into being in 1971.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global powerhouse, Nike's journey is a testament to the power of innovation and determination in business.