History of Nike Shox in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 30, 2025

Nike Shox, introduced in 2000, is a cushioning technology integrated into Nike sneakers. Its key feature is an array of hollow polyurethane columns, typically arranged in a square formation under the heel, designed to provide enhanced support and shock absorption. While the initial design featured four circular columns, subsequent models incorporated variations in column shapes, such as triangular or rectangular arrangements, and sometimes included additional columns to optimize stability and performance.

1984: Bruce Kilgore begins Shox project design

In 1984, designer Bruce Kilgore started the research for the Nike Shox project, inspired by indoor track sprinters.

2000: Vince Carter wears Shox BB4 at 2000 Summer Olympics

During the 2000 Summer Olympics, Vince Carter famously wore the Nike Shox BB4 when he performed "le dunk de la mort".

2000: First Nike Shox Released

In 2000, Nike released the first Shox shoe, featuring a polyurethane hollow column support system in the heel.

2001: Vince Carter wears Shox BB4 at 2001 NBA All-Star Game

Vince Carter wore a white and varsity red colorway of the Nike Shox BB4 during the 2001 NBA All-Star Game.

February 17, 2006: Nike files patent infringement suit against Adidas

On February 17, 2006, BBC News reported that Nike had filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Adidas, claiming that their trainers replicated Nike's technology.

2016: Unreleased Air Force 1 prototype with Shox cushioning surfaces

In 2016, Nike created an Air Force 1 prototype with Shox cushioning, which was never released publicly. An ex-employee later sold a proficiency testing sample at an eBay auction, in collaboration with sneaker collector Jordan Geller. The shoe is now owned by Support Your Localz.

Nike Air Force 1 '07 Low Mens Basketball Shoes (Men's 10.5 Medium, White/White)

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2018: Vince Carter sports Shox BB4s during 2018-19 NBA season

Throughout the 2018–19 NBA season, Vince Carter was seen wearing the Nike Shox BB4 in various colorways.

June 29, 2019: Nike re-releases the Shox BB4

On June 29, 2019, Nike commemorated Vince Carter's career by re-releasing his first signature shoe, the Shox BB4, in various colorways, including the "Olympics" variant.