Imagine a sneaker collection that not only turns heads but also tugs at your heartstrings. That’s exactly what Nike’s latest Doernbecher Freestyle Collection achieves, and it’s a story you won’t want to miss. Unveiled on Friday, this 21st installment of the beloved series is a collaboration with the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, where young patients become designers, pouring their courage, dreams, and unique journeys into every stitch and sole. But here’s where it gets truly inspiring: these aren’t just sneakers—they’re wearable testaments to resilience, creativity, and hope.
This year’s collection features six iconic Nike models, each reimagined by Doernbecher patients alongside Nike’s volunteer product experts. Over a nine-month process, these teams worked tirelessly to bring to life designs that reflect the passions and stories of each young creator. From mismatched colors to glow-in-the-dark outsoles, every detail is a nod to their remarkable journeys. And this is the part most people miss: 100% of the profits from auctions and sales go directly to the OHSU Foundation, continuing a tradition that has raised over $40 million since 2004.
Take, for instance, the Nike V2K Run, designed by 9-year-old Khovny Vignery, who lives with a rare condition called congenital chylothorax. Her sneakers are a burst of personality, featuring mismatched blue and pink shoes adorned with removable charms, pendants, and even miniature stuffed animals. A friendship bracelet honoring her brother, Ryan, adds a touching personal touch, while sequins, glitter, and fur make these shoes undeniably eye-catching.
Then there’s Molly Bell, a 14-year-old with autism, whose Nike Vomero Plus design is a love letter to the great outdoors. As an aspiring field biologist, Molly incorporated Oregon’s iconic camas flower into the embroidery and a lenticular forest graphic on the Swoosh. The brown midsole? That’s her practical side shining through—designed to hide dirt. And the animal print tongue? Pure Molly. The shoes even come with a field journal featuring a quote from her favorite author.
Controversial question: Can sneakers truly capture the essence of a child’s dreams? Consider Oli Fasone-Lancaster, a 10-year-old battling T-cell lymphoma, whose Nike Air Force 1 ’07 is a culinary masterpiece. His dream of becoming a chef is evident in every detail, from the laser-etched vegetables on the gum rubber sole to the miniature silverware tucked into the Swoosh. Even the outsole pays homage to his love for painting rainbows with a multicolor gradient.
Raegan Scheid, a 13-year-old who’s faced open-heart surgery, designed the Nike Air Max Dn8 with her passion for softball front and center. Her custom heart logo on the tongue and the “Raegan Max” heel logo are just the beginning. The sneaker’s Air units are printed with softball stitches, and the hangtag references May 2024—the month she returned to the sport she loves.
Sergio Cano Marquez, who lives with a rare genetic disease, took a bold approach with his Nike Air Max Plus. Inspired by his love of being different, he created mismatched shoes with entirely distinct themes: one celebrates nighttime and video games, while the other features monster lizards eating pizza in New York. Yes, pizza. And basketball. Both themes are woven throughout, with textured tongues mimicking the feel of a basketball.
Finally, Zach Rumbaugh, an 18-year-old with a heart condition, brought his love for bikes and cars to the Air Jordan 17. A chrome finish inspired by Michael Jordan’s motorcycle, suede and carbon fiber details, and a purple upper reminiscent of custom wraps make this design a standout. The number 38—representing the days Zach spent in the hospital after a cardiac arrest—is subtly integrated throughout.
Early auctions for the 2025 Nike Doernbecher Freestyle Collection kicked off in Portland, with an official release coming later this winter via Nike’s Snkrs app and select retailers. But here’s the real question: Which design speaks to you the most? Let us know in the comments—and don’t be afraid to get controversial. After all, these sneakers are more than just footwear; they’re stories waiting to be told.
