In the world of sneakers, few collaborations resonate as deeply as the partnership between Nike and the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, culminating in the Doernbecher Freestyle program. 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of this heartfelt initiative, celebrating with the release of a special edition Air Jordan 20, a sneaker that not only encapsulates two decades of design innovation but also the spirit of 122 young patient-designers.
The Air Jordan 20, originally launched in 2005, was significant for its laser-etched graphics, a technique pioneered by Mark Smith, celebrating Michael Jordan’s legacy. For its Doernbecher edition, Smith, once again at the helm, has transformed this model into a canvas that tells a collective story of resilience and creativity. This iteration features a new mosaic on its midfoot strap, a tapestry that honors each participant of the Freestyle program with symbols representing their personal journeys, hopes, and the playful elements of childhood amidst their battles with illness.
The design influence for this special Air Jordan 20 goes beyond mere aesthetics. It serves as a narrative medium, where each laser-engraved icon, from therapy dogs to the iconic red couch at Nike's WHQ, embodies moments of joy, struggle, and triumph. This sneaker doesn't just carry the legacy of Air Jordan but also the dreams and aspirations of the Doernbecher kids, making it a profound artifact of human spirit and design innovation.
The significance of this sneaker extends into philanthropy. With only 20 numbered pairs created, these shoes are being auctioned at Sotheby’s, starting October 21, 2024, with bids closing on October 30. This auction isn't just about owning a piece of sneaker history; it's about contributing to a cause. All proceeds from this auction go directly to the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, supporting medical care, specialized treatments, and research to benefit children globally. This initiative underscores Nike's commitment to social responsibility, transforming sneakers into symbols of hope.
For more updates on sneaker news and release info follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
Images via Nike