The Nike Brand:
Nike is the leading maker of athletic shoes, equipment and apparel. Nike products cover a broad range of sports including basketball, football, running and soccer. Sneakers made by Nike are sold for $40-$200 per pair. Nike is one of the most-heavily advertised and best known brands in the world. Nike has signed exclusive and expensive marketing deals with some of the world's top athletes -- including Tiger Woods, Andre Agassi and LeBron James -- to promote its products.Nike History:
Nike was founded by Philip Knight, who ran track at the University of Oregon, and his team coach Bill Bowerman. In 1963, Knight began selling Tigers running shoes from Japan at a store known as Blue Ribbon Sports in Eugene, OR. Knight would also sell shoes from the back of his car at track meets. Sales grew and Knight hired an art student in 1971 to develop the company's well-known swoosh symbol for just $35. The company became known as Nike in 1972 which was named after the Greek goddess of victory.Then Came Air Jordan:
In 1985, Nike's fortunes changed when it signed up a young basketball player for the Chicago Bulls named Michael Jordan. His line of sneakers known as Air Jordans has become the best selling shoe line in history.The Nike Legacy:
Wholly-owned Nike subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear, apparel and accessories; Cole Haan, which designs, markets and distributes luxury shoes, handbags, accessories and coats; Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories; and Umbro Ltd., a leading United Kingdom-based global football (soccer) brand.Compare prices on Nike sneakers!
