Best Kicks From the Nike Doernbecher Freestyle Program 2023
Since 2004, Nike and Portland’s OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital have fostered a strong and enduring partnership, having raised over $30 million USD for the hospital through their annual Nike Doernbecher Freestyle Program. Every year, dedicated volunteers from Nike engage with a group of young patients at the hospital, translating their unique stories and personalities into distinctive footwear and accompanying apparel.
The 19th collection is set to be unveiled on October 27, with an upcoming auction for these special sneakers preceding a limited public release later this year. In celebration of the program’s remarkable 18-year history and the extraordinary designs it has brought to the world, Hypebeast has compiled a list of the most outstanding creations to date.
Nike Dunk Low by Lance Dillon (2007)
Lance Dillon’s rendition of the Nike Dunk Low is one of the select Doernbecher Freestyle shoes to have been released twice, and it’s certainly well-deserved. Lance, a resilient individual who overcame cancer at the age of 17, collaborated with the program, and it beautifully showcased his personality.
The design, inspired by graffiti, features inspirational words like “fight” and “warrior” intricately woven throughout the upper, and its unique color scheme combines shades of gray, olive, and sand brown.
What truly sets this design apart are the intricate details, including the incorporation of the date of Lance’s leukemia diagnosis, the number of days he spent in chemotherapy at Doernbecher, and a special wing emblem adorning the heel of the left shoe.
This pair has rightfully earned its place among the program’s most exceptional creations to date.
Air Jordan 3 by Cole Johanson (2010)
Among the program’s highly coveted releases, several Air Jordans stand out, and a true gem among them is Cole Johanson’s Air Jordan 3. This particular pair was re-released in 2013 and holds a special place in the collection. Notably, it features the empowering words “Strength” and “Courage,” which played a significant role in Johanson’s triumphant battle against lymphoma.
The design of the shoe is striking, with vibrant red adorning the elephant print mudguards and covering the diamond-patterned upper. Black accents provide a bold contrast, and the semi-translucent outsole adds to its distinctive and enduring appeal, making it a timeless favorite among sneaker enthusiasts.
Air Jordan 4 by Isaiah Scott (2011)
Isaiah Scott had a clear vision when he designed his Nike Doernbecher shoe, and it revolved around two iconic symbols – Superman and the Jumpman. Given the endearing nickname “Superman” by his mother, Scott fully embraced this persona by adorning the Air Jordan 4 with a captivating Superman versus Kryptonite-inspired finish.
His design features a sleek black pair of Air Jordan 4s, accentuated with eye-catching details that span from vibrant shades of green to intricate blue stitching. The prominent “S” logo of Superman is proudly displayed on the tongue, further cementing the superhero theme.
The outsole of the shoe also boasts thematic touches, drawing inspiration from the pages of a comic book. Isaiah Scott’s creation is a true embodiment of his superhero identity, making it a remarkable addition to the Doernbecher collection.
Nike Air Foamposite One by Elijah Diggin (2013)
Elijah Diggins’ Air Foamposite One is a Doernbecher release that made such an impact it was re-released. Elijah, who triumphed over Burkitt’s Leukemia, celebrated his remarkable cancer journey through the creation of a striking black and red Foamposite design that pays homage to his favorite athlete, LeBron James.
The upper of the shoe is predominantly adorned in vibrant red, while black accents provide a captivating contrast. The personal touches on Diggins’ design are touching and meaningful, including his initials forming his signature smiley face and a chain-link graphic on the sockliner, which references the silver bracelet gifted to him by his parents at the onset of his chemotherapy.
Elijah Diggins’ Air Foamposite One is not only a stylish sneaker but also a symbol of resilience and personal triumph.
Nike LeBron 13 by Kian Safholm (2015)
Eleven-year-old Kian Safholm drew inspiration from King James when designing the Nike LeBron 13, giving it a distinctive sunset fade. The gradient, transitioning from orange to purple, begins at the toe and extends up to the collar, with black accents providing a striking background for this colorful design.
The shoe’s sockliner bears the phrase “Forever Grateful,” which is the motto of Kian’s family. This inscription serves as a heartfelt tribute to the exceptional care provided by the Doernbecher team.
Additionally, the shoe’s tongue features a golden signature along with a shimmering “KIAN” tag, adding a personal touch to this unique and meaningful design.
Nike Air More Uptempo by Brody Miller (2017)
Storytelling is a pivotal component of each Doernbecher Freestyle release, and Brody Miller excelled in this aspect when he designed his Air More Uptempo.
As an aspiring comic book artist, Miller introduced an engaging narrative by creating a character named Generator Man, who served as his alter ego. Generator Man, the superhero persona of Miller, possesses remarkable abilities, including mind control powers and the ability to emit healing energy from his hands to combat wrongdoers.
The design of the shoe itself adheres to this superhero theme, featuring a predominantly blue color scheme with eye-catching yellow and red accents. In a creative twist, the customary “AIR” lettering has been replaced with “BPM,” representing Brody Miller’s initials.
Additionally, a hidden feature adds an extra layer of intrigue: the shoe’s outsole is glow-in-the-dark, revealing the inspiring message “BE STRONG” when illuminated. Brody Miller’s Air More Uptempo seamlessly weaves storytelling and personal identity into a visually captivating and meaningful design.
Air Jordan 15 by Donovon Dinneen (2018)
Donovon Dinneen’s black and gold version of the Air Jordan 15 is a distinct creation, not to be confused with the popular “Wings” series of Air Jordans. Its inspiration diverges significantly, drawing from the world of anime.
Specifically, Donovon’s favorite anime, Dragon Ball Z, serves as the muse for this striking design. The Air Jordan 15 takes on an appearance inspired by Super Shenron, exuding a regal and majestic aura.
The black suede of the shoe is skillfully embossed with the intricate dragon scales reminiscent of Shenron. Additionally, the design includes nods to Donovon Dinneen’s birthday and incorporates the Japanese symbol of protection, adding further depth to this anime-inspired and truly unique Air Jordan 15.
Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 by Sawyer Miller (2019)
Sawyer Miller, a dedicated gymnast in training, underwent extensive treatment at Doernbecher. His elementary school classmates and teachers organized a heartwarming surprise for him during this challenging time.
Every Friday, they would sport green “Team Sawyer” t-shirts, each featuring a panda bear (Sawyer’s favorite animal) in a show of support.
This beautiful tribute found its way into the design of the Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2. The lateral midfoot of the shoe features an adorable panda, munching on a Swoosh, carrying forward the “Team Sawyer” spirit.
Additionally, the shoe includes a playful reference with a handstand silhouette on the heel, commemorating Sawyer Miller’s habit of performing a handstand at every check-up, signifying a clean brain scan.
This design not only reflects his personal journey but also the love and encouragement he received from his community during his challenging times.
Nike LeBron 19 by Sam David Phelps (2022)
Sam David Phelps’ design for the Nike LeBron 19 is an electrifying masterpiece. Bolts are creatively incorporated throughout the shoe’s upper, symbolizing the dynamic energy that flows through it.
His resolute “Never Back Down” motto is boldly emblazoned in white on the lateral heel, emphasizing his determined spirit.
The shoe is further brought to life with metallic gold panels that add a touch of vibrancy. Sam David Phelps’ own fiery wheelchair logo takes center stage on the tongue, representing his unique identity.
The design also includes various other references to Phelps at the heel, tongue, and an exceptional sockliner, making this version of his favorite athlete’s signature shoe a truly special and personalized rendition.
Nike Zoom Vomero 5 by Jaren Heacock (2023)
Jaren Heacock’s imaginative spirit shines through in his design of the Nike Zoom Vomero 5, encouraging sneaker enthusiasts to dream big alongside him.
The shoe features a unique Velcro system on the upper, allowing for extensive customization. With a variety of patches included with the shoe, wearers have the opportunity to personalize their footwear.
These patches range from pixelated Swooshes to Swoosh-shaped dragons, as well as “Team J” references, symbolizing the first letter of his siblings’ names.
The pixelated graphics pay homage to Jaren’s favorite game, Minecraft, while the dragon-inspired design is a tribute to his Chinese heritage.
This design not only reflects Jaren’s creativity and passions but also invites others to embark on their own imaginative journeys through personalization and self-expression.
