Nike Zoom Vomero 5

This brightly coloured Nike Vomero 5 was designed by Jaren Heacock, a patient at the Doernbecher children’s hospital in Portland, Oregon, as part of the institution’s Freestyle XVIII collection. Along with five other children undergoing treatment there, Jaren was invited to work with Nike’s design team to produce an apparel collection drawing on inspirations from his own personal journey. Having been adopted from China by an American family at the age of two, Jaren chose to recognise his Chinese roots and the year of his birth with specially customised features. His siblings, who he describes as his favourite athletes, are also honoured. Lastly, his love of robotics and future career ambitions are reflected in the design so that the shoe tells a powerful story of the most important aspects of Jaren’s life.

A trio of vibrant tones come together on this Nike Zoom Vomero 5 for a look that truly stands out. Swooping lines of Bright Crimson and Total Orange alternate across the outer, while Yellow Strike combines with a gentler shade of orange over the forefoot and collar. Much of the upper is made from soft fabric so that the interchangeable Velcro patches supplied with the shoe can be stuck to it in whatever arrangement the wearer decides. These unique adornments include images of dragons, pixelated swooshes and some of designer Jaren Heacock’s favourite phrases, making it a truly one-of-a-kind sneaker. Elsewhere, the names of his siblings decorate the insole, and “Assembling Future” text straddles the swoosh on the heel. Hints of black show up across the design as a counterbalance to its otherwise vivid colour palette, the inky tone ultimately enhancing the undeniable appeal of this bold, energetic Vomero 5.