Nike has officially revealed the 22nd edition of its acclaimed Doernbecher Freestyle collection, showcasing six unique sneaker designs created in collaboration with young patients from the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon. The collection was unveiled on October 16, 2026, during a charitable auction event in Portland, with a global commercial release slated for January 2027 via the Nike SNKRS app and select retailers.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Design
Since its inception in 2004, the partnership between Nike and the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital—part of Oregon Health & Science University—has raised over $44 million to fund advanced pediatric research and specialized care for children in need. Each year, six patients are invited to work directly with Nike’s design teams, translating their personal journeys, passions, and medical battles into limited-edition footwear. The program stands as a benchmark for corporate social responsibility within the sneaker industry, merging collectible culture with high-impact philanthropy.
Meet the 2026 Designers
This year’s cohort ranges in age from 9 to 17 and hails from communities across Oregon and Washington, with one designer from Dallas, Oregon. Each participant brought a distinct medical story and creative vision to a silhouette that, notably, marks the first appearance for several models in the franchise’s history.
- Owen William Flint, 11 (Creswell, OR) – Chronic kidney disease | Nike Air Max 1/97 ($170)
- Avery Wilson, 13 (Tualatin, OR) – OCD and ADHD | Air Jordan 11 Low IE ($200)
- Charlye Cosgrove, 15 (Vancouver, WA) – Osteosarcoma | Nike ACG Rufus ($120)
- Royce Short, 12 (Irrigon, OR) – Tracheoesophageal fistula | Nike Air Force 1 Mid ($140)
- Aurora Loss, 9 (Longview, WA) – Bilateral dysplastic kidneys | Nike Structure Plus ($170)
- Kamoryn Marshall, 17 (Dallas, OR) – Hip osteoarthritis | Nike GT Future (Price TBD)
Personal Stories Woven Into Each Shoe
Every pair in the collection is rich
Source: fayerwayer.com
