Nike Shox, introduced in 2000, is a prominent support system used in various Nike sneakers. The technology features a unique arrangement of hollow polyurethane columns primarily located in the midsole's heel area. These columns, typically four in a square formation for enhanced stability, provide cushioning and support. Subsequent iterations introduced variations in column quantity, shape, and arrangement, further refining the Shox system's performance.
1984: Nike Designer Begins Researching Shox Project
In 1984, Bruce Kilgore at Nike began exploring designs for the Shox technology, drawing inspiration from the dynamic movements of track athletes.
2000: Nike Shox First Released
In 2000, Nike launched its Shox technology, featuring a system of polyurethane columns in the midsole to provide support and cushioning.
2000: Nike Shox Gains Popularity During 2000 Summer Olympics
The Nike Shox gained significant attention during the 2000 Summer Olympics when Vince Carter, wearing his signature Shox BB4s, performed a memorable dunk over a French opponent.
2000: Vince Carter's "Dunk of Death"
Vince Carter's remarkable dunk during the 2000 Summer Olympics, where he jumped over a 7'2" French player while wearing the Shox BB4, earned the nickname "le dunk de la mort" ("the Dunk of Death").
2001: Vince Carter Wears Shox BB4 in NBA All-Star Game
Vince Carter wore a memorable white and varsity red colorway of the Shox BB4 during the 2001 NBA All-Star Game.
February 17, 2006: Nike Files Patent Infringement Suit Against Adidas
On February 17, 2006, Nike took legal action against Adidas, alleging that Adidas had infringed on their patented Shox technology.
2016: Nike Creates Air Force 1 Shox Prototype
Nike developed a prototype of their Air Force 1 model incorporating Shox technology in 2016. However, this version was never released to the public and remained a rare collector's item.
2018: Vince Carter Wears Shox BB4 in NBA Games
Throughout the 2018–19 NBA season and 2019-20 NBA season, Vince Carter made a statement by wearing various colorways of his signature Shox BB4 shoes.
June 29, 2019: Nike Re-Releases Shox BB4
On June 29, 2019, Nike reintroduced Vince Carter's first signature shoe, the Shox BB4, in a variety of colors, including the "Olympics" edition, as a tribute to his career.
October 11, 2019: Nike Re-Releases Shox BB4 All-Star Game Colorway
On October 11, 2019, Nike re-released the white and varsity red colorway of the Shox BB4, a tribute to the shoe Vince Carter wore during the 2001 NBA All-Star Game.