Nike’s had an unpredictable history when it comes to sticking with athletes through controversy. The brand backed Tiger Woods in his time of turmoil but turned its back on Lance Armstrong after his infamous doping scandal shocked the world. That’s why the curious case of Michael Vick remains so interesting. Nike dropped the quarterback after creating a number of signature silhouettes for him, somewhat of a rarity in the football world, due to a looming prison sentence and suspension from football back in 2007. But after a promising year with the Philadelphia Eagles saw Vick have arguably the best season of his NFL career in 2011, the Swoosh resigned him despite the past controversy. For some, the move signaled a successful rehabilitation of his image that mirrored his on-field success. Others weren’t as readily forgiving. Now the Nike Zoom Vick 2 is slated for a return this summer.
The latest colorway harkens back to his Atlanta days, as the upper is split between a University Red and White, the oversized Swoosh embossed in the red portion with micro perforations adding some much-needed ventilation on the otherwise entirely synthetic leather offering. The unique heel cage utilizes a full length Zoom Air system and sports a nod at his number 7. The Vick 2 release in Europe in July but there’s still no firm release date for the U.S. yet. Continue onward for official images and let us know if you’re going to pick up the surprising return of Michael Vick’s second signature by taking your thoughts to our comments section.
