Sneaker News 2nd-year NFL player Shaquem Griffin embodies the spirit of a true athlete. Born with a rare condition that led to the amputation of his left hand at the age of four, Shaquem essentially ignored what many would see as a hindrance and participated in virtually every team and individual sport in his school days. He continued his inspirational journey while playing at the collegiate level, proved he belonged with an amazing showing at the NFL Combine, and defied all odds by being selected by the Seattle Seahawks in following draft. It’s clear that there’s no stopping an individual of Shaquem’s composition, and Nike’s proud to be part of that journey as they’ve worked closely with the linebacker to create the first-ever Flyease shoe made for the field. According to Nike spokespeople, “we like to work with athletes who might be seen as “extreme” to create solutions that will help everyone.”
A key driver to the Flyease initiative is to “create zero distraction for the athlete”. Designers worked closely with Griffin to create the first-ever easy entry solution to football cleats, and the new three-strap closing system on a pliable for upper allows for quick adjustments between plays. In typical Swoosh fashion, some added flair vis the elevated textured overlay and the shadowed logo at the heel.
“No matter if you one hand, two hands or no hands the focus is on everyone,” says Shaquem, who will debut the shoes during the Monday Night Football game between the Seahawks and 49ers.
