Nike products are inspired by collegiate and professional athletes all of the time, but it's not everyday that that they are inspired by people with special needs or physical disabilities. For its 2015 list of the "25 Best Inventions," Timechose to think past world class athletes when it selected a sneaker that was designed to allow people to secure them on with one hand.
In 2012, Matthew Walzer caught the attention of Nike by sharing his story of wanting a sneaker that allowed him to be independent. Essentially, Walzer, who was born with cerebral palsy, desired a sneaker that could be put on without the help of someone else. Nike CEO Mark Parker caught wind of this and called on designer Tobie Hatfield to create a sneaker that would cater to him, and countless others. With Walzer's inspiration, the Nike LeBron 8 Soldier "FLYEASE" was was released to the masses in July 2015, creating an entire new lane of sneakers for those who needed an alternative to laces. The sneaker community can often be one that's harsh to outsiders, but it's great to see Nike opening it up to those of all walks of life.
You can by this sneaker now for $130, at nike.com.
