Nike's Mistake in the 1980s

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Early Nike did so many things right, but they made one critical mistake. The broader fitness boom was a massive secular trend that continues through to this day. By the early 80s, as we're heading into everything that the 80s was and that the 70s were not, Ripping and jogging is out and aerobics are in. And Nike absolutely refused to see that and refused to do aerobics like on principle.

Nike — it’s perhaps the most iconic and most prolific brand of the modern era. On any given day, swooshes adorn the feet of more people on earth than any other footwear company — by a long shot.

If you read Shoe Dog or watched Air, you may think you know its history. But Shoe Dog ends in 1980, and Air… well let’s just say it’s an enjoyable piece of fiction. And it turns out (as always) that the real story is filled with far more drama, twists and business lessons than either of those works.

We’ve been wanting to cover Nike for a long time, and thanks to our LPs who voted to choose this episode it’s finally here. So lace up your Vaporflys, Air Maxes, Dunks or Jordans (or your Monarchs, hey we don’t judge), head out for a long run or walk and enjoy!

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