adidas and FCB Canada Unveil Performance Shoe Tailored for Athletes with Down Syndrome

adidas has unveiled the first-ever performance running shoe designed specifically for and by people with Down Syndrome – developed in collaboration with Chris Nikic, FCB Canada, and a group of athletes from the community.

The launch marks the next step in adidas’ mission to make sport more inclusive, following the 2022 ‘Runner 321’ campaign that introduced Nikic – a marathon runner and the first Ironman with Down Syndrome – as the brand’s first sponsored athlete with the condition.

Although this prior initiative proved to be a huge success, giving the Down Syndrome community a chance at meaningful athletic representation while leading to increased signups and a feel-good story, a problem was discovered along the way.

Specifically, what many able-bodied people around the world were not aware of at the time was the fact that people with Down Syndrome have genetic foot anomalies, making it very difficult to find running shoes that actually fit properly. Sure, the chance to participate in sport proved to be a major confidence booster, but the physical toll it took on Nikic and his compatriots was not something that adidas and FCB could idly abide by.

To this end, the adidas team actually flew multiple athletes with Down Syndrome out to their headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany, surprising them with a prototype shoe specifically built for the six million people in the community (which they were subsequently able to help test and weigh-in on) – something Nikic took to Instagram this morning to share.

“This shoe is the single greatest thing that could happen for our kids,” said Nik Nikic, the adidas athlete’s father. “You’re going to see a whole revolution of young men and women with Down Syndrome out running.”

Expected to come to market some time next year, this product will be the culmination of three years of testing, development and feedback. Intended to support the unique needs of this community, whether they’re taking to the track or taking a walk, it’s a move which highlights the brand’s dedication to giving everyone equal access in sport.

“Our team is working with the athletes – including Chris – with disabilities to say ‘what do you need?’,” finished adidas global CEO Bjørn Gulden. “There’s many, many needs around the world and different groups that we can actually care for, and I think this is just the start.”