The 21st Nike x Doernbecher Freestyle collection returns with uplifting stories, vibrant design, and a purpose-driven release that supports kids and families.
The Nike x Doernbecher Freestyle collection represents more than sneakers — it’s about hope, creativity, and the healing power of design. For 21 years, NIKE, Inc. and Oregon Health & Science University Doernbecher Children’s Hospital have joined forces to give young patients the chance to create their own footwear and apparel, turning personal stories into wearable art that changes lives.
What to know
- The Doernbecher Freestyle program began in 2004 and has raised over $40 million for children’s healthcare.
- Every year, six Doernbecher patients become designers, creating one-of-a-kind sneakers sold to benefit the hospital.
- The 2025 collection includes six Nike silhouettes and two apparel pieces inspired by the kids’ designs.
- All proceeds support care for families in need, fund rare treatments, and drive innovative pediatric research.
- The program has engaged more than 350 Nike employee volunteers, blending creativity with compassion.
A partnership where creativity heals
For 21 years, Doernbecher Freestyle has paired young patients with Nike volunteer product experts. Over a nine-month journey, sketches become sneakers through iterative color, material, and storytelling sessions. The result is design that feels joyful, personal, and full of courage.
Designing Courage, One Step at a Time
What began as a simple idea — empowering young patients through creativity — has grown into a global movement. Over a nine-month design journey, the children work with Nike’s volunteer designers to bring their ideas to life. They experiment with color, texture, and storytelling, transforming their experiences into tangible design language.
The process gives each child something beyond the final shoe: a sense of purpose and a platform to share their strength. For Nike employees, it becomes one of the most meaningful creative experiences of their careers.
Together, they craft designs that not only look extraordinary but also represent the resilience of the human spirit.
Meet the Designers and Their Creations
Raegan Scheid – Nike Air Max Dn8
Raegan’s vibrant pink and yellow Air Max Dn8 celebrates optimism and perseverance. Golden accents, heart motifs, and her mantra “I can do hard things” remind wearers that strength comes from within. A softball charm and her favorite date on the tag nod to moments that make her proud.
Zach Rumbaugh – Air Jordan 17
Zach’s futuristic Air Jordan 17 draws inspiration from gaming and self-expression. The iridescent finish, bold 38 tag, and glow-in-the-dark soles capture his energy and imagination. Every detail symbolizes how he powers through challenges with humor and focus.
Sergio Cano Marquez – Nike Air Max Plus
Sergio’s bold Air Max Plus is a burst of color and confidence. His design celebrates video games, art, and joy — all framed in a graffiti-like mix of patterns and textures. Glow details and his name across the tongue make this one unforgettable.
Oli Fasone-Lancaster – Nike Air Force 1 ’07
Oli’s Air Force 1 celebrates his love of tacos, family dinners, and togetherness. A rainbow-colored sole and hand-drawn icons represent happiness, while engraved midsole designs remind us to find comfort in small moments of joy.
Khovny Vignery – Nike V2K Run
Khovny’s V2K Run bursts with color, texture, and imagination. With fluffy accents, butterflies, beads, and a cheerful bear badge, her sneaker celebrates friendship and individuality. It’s whimsical yet powerful — just like her.
Molly Bell – Nike Vomero Plus
Molly’s Vomero Plus channels her deep connection to nature. With green tones, soft browns, and embroidered flowers, it represents balance and growth. The shoe feels peaceful, reflecting her belief in healing through calm and creativity.
Apparel that Unites Their Stories
The 21st Nike x Doernbecher Freestyle collection also features two apparel pieces designed to connect the stories behind each shoe:
- A Nike Club Fairway Cardigan, featuring stitched symbols inspired by all six young designers.
- A Freestyle Graphic Tee, available in both men’s and kids’ sizes, that proudly displays the project’s legacy and the playful spirit of the 2025 lineup.
- Together, these pieces act as a wearable canvas — proof that style can be a vehicle for empathy.
Beyond Fashion: Purpose in Every Pair
Every element of this collaboration reflects the shared belief that creativity can heal. The funds raised provide life-changing care, help families afford treatment, and fuel research that benefits children worldwide.
As Nike and Doernbecher mark 21 years of partnership, the mission remains clear: to empower kids through sport, imagination, and community.
When you buy from this collection, you’re not just supporting a release — you’re contributing to a story that uplifts others and shows what’s possible when compassion and creativity meet.
The 21st Nike x Doernbecher Freestyle collection releases in November 2025 on Nike.com, the SNKRS app, and select retailers.
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