Who Founded Nike, When Did Nike Start & More

Nike stands out as one of the most impactful companies in various aspects. Renowned for its transformative influence in the world of footwear, sports, and culture, Nike has gained a dedicated fan base all over the years. Enthusiastic supporters express their admiration for Nike frequently through various channels, be it online discussions, face-to-face conversations, or any other mode of communication.

Let’s have a look at the trivia of the company.

When Was Nike Founded?

Nike Started its operations way back in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports, the company was headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon. In 1966 the Company opened its first physical store in California. The store was a success, In 1971 Blue Ribbon Sports was renamed to its present name Nike.

Who Is the Founder of Nike?

Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight founded Nike as Blue Ribbon Sports.

About Phil Knight:

Phil Knight, a notable figure in founding Nike, is its co-founder. Knight assumed the role of President in the company, holding this position from 1968 until 1990. He later made a return to the presidency from 2000 to 2004. Prior to his endeavors with Nike, Knight had a career as a certified public accountant and also served as a Professor of Business Administration.

About Bill Bowerman

Bill Bowerman is widely celebrated as one of the most renowned track coaches. Bowerman coached Phil Knight when he was a runner at the University of Oregon. That’s where their friendship began which later turned into a business partnership. Bowerman's coaching tenure spanned an impressive 24 years at Oregon, where his expertise and dedication left an everlasting legacy. He coached some of the greatest runners of all time, which includes Steve Prefontaine.

The Knight & Bowerman Team

Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight shared a mutual interest in increasing the footwear options available to athletes. Their collaboration led to a significant innovation in the early 1970s when Bowerman developed the concept of the waffle outsole. The waffle outsole was an experiment by Bowerman that had him pouring rubber compound into his wife’s waffle iron. The duo wanted to offer athletic shoes with superior grip and would get lighter in weight. The introduction of the waffle soles, along with Nike's marketing strategies, were the reasons that took the company to the top of the athletic footwear industry.

What Does the Nike Name Mean?

Nike's name is inspired by the Greek goddess of Victory.

What Is the Story Behind The Swoosh Logo?

In 1971, the iconic Nike Swoosh came into existence, marking a significant milestone for the brand. The world-famous logo was created by a graphic design student whose vision aimed to capture the essence of speed. Drawing inspiration from the ancient Greek goddess Nike.

Nike Swoosh Logo made its debut with the Nike Cleat and the Nike Waffle Racer, which made their first appearance at the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials held in Eugene, Oregon.