Nike Cortez x Doernbecher Freestyle "Sydney"

As part of the Doernbecher Freestyle program, which gives young patients the opportunity to work with Nike designers, Sydney created a walking masterpiece filled with her hand-drawn artwork on the interchangeable patches you can customize at the heel. Sydney hopes her vibrant shoe will brighten your day, and she even offers a bit of advice for anyone facing a challenge: "Keep swimming. You'll get through it."

Water Elements

The squishy, glow-in-the-dark Swoosh logo is a nod to Sydney's love of water, as well as resin dots that mimic waterdrops. And look closely at the sole: glow-in-the-dark lines mimic the pattern of a water reflection within a pool.

Meaningful Design

Sydney's hand-drawn floral print appears throughout in green, highlighting her favorite flower, the hibiscus, and color. The inner tongue label has her personal mantra for when things get tough.

Customizable Style

Hook-and-loop material on the heel features multiple patches designed by Sydney. And the sockliners showcase Sydney's painting of a beach sunset.

Product Details

• Padded collar
• Foam midsole
• Herringbone rubber outsole

Doernbecher Freestyle Program

Since 2004, Nike’s Doernbecher Freestyle Program has raised nearly $37 million for OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital. This special partnership gives young patients the opportunity to work with Nike designers to create their own collections of Nike and Jordan Brand sneakers, apparel and accessories. Their one-of-a-kind collections are then auctioned off at the program’s annual fundraiser—with every penny going to the children’s hospital.

Cortez Origins

The Nike Cortez was designed in 1972 by Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman to be lighter and more comfortable than any other. It quickly became the most popular running shoe in the country and has transformed into an unmistakable icon, woven into pop culture history.