Nike Shox R4

About

Nike Shox is a support system featured in several Nike sneakers, first released in 2000. The system uses polyurethane hollow columns in the midsole supporting the heel, with most models including four circular columns in a square formation for stability. Bruce Kilgore initiated the Shox project research in 1984, drawing inspiration from indoor track sprinters. Nike claimed the Shox columns absorb impact from heel strikes while running and spring back to add power to the stride. The R4 was among the first models released when the Shox line launched in 2000. Visibility for the line grew significantly when Vince Carter wore the Shox BB4 at the 2000 Summer Olympics, performing the dunks that earned him the nickname Half Man Half Amazing. Nike later filed a patent infringement suit against Adidas in 2006, alleging their trainers replicated the Shox technology. The distinctive column-and-plate construction made the R4 immediately recognisable and influential in early 2000s sneaker culture, and the line has since been revived as a lifestyle silhouette.