Nike Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease was made and designed for disabled people by Nike's Tobie Hatfiled. The idea for the special shoes was that it has a secret zipper at the back that makes a disabled person at ease in wearing them by themselves. There was an interesting story behind the shoe design and it came from a boy that had cerebral palsy. It started to go on sale last July 16 limited stocks only.
The design was considered and developed after Hatfield received a letter from Matthew Walzer. Walzer's letter indicated that he would soon become a College student and he is worried that due to his stiff and weak muscles, he would still be needing the help of someone in tying his shoes.
Through this, according to the article of Entrepreneur, Hatfield said that "I started thinking about doors on a hinge." And from the verge, "And so I said, 'I'm going to take this zipper in the back so this can literally just peel open." "The main thing was about getting him in the shoes, adjusting the shoes, closing the shoes, and then being able to get out of the shoes all by himself."
He worked with Walzer in developing the Flyease and communicated with him through Skype. The actual development took three years along with the help of other Nike designers.
This was just a great move for Hatfield and Nike that could inspire many people and especially help the disabled. Hoping that there could be many next addition after this not only for Nike but also for other leading brands.
Hatfield told Fast Company, "It's still not perfect by any means." "We know we can continue to make improvements, but we wanted to give access to those who need this sooner than later."
The Lebron Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease is priced at $130 and is available on the Nike website.
