What are the best lacrosse hoodies for players and fans. How to choose the perfect lacrosse sweatshirt for comfort and style. Where to find unique lacrosse designs for men, women, and youth. Why premium quality fleece matters in lacrosse apparel.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Apparel: From Functional to Fashionable
Lacrosse, a sport steeped in tradition, has seen its apparel evolve from purely functional gear to fashionable statements both on and off the field. Today’s lacrosse hoodies represent this shift, blending performance features with style that resonates with players and fans alike. But what exactly makes a great lacrosse hoodie?
A top-tier lacrosse hoodie combines several key elements:
- Durable materials that withstand intense play
- Comfortable fit for movement and layering
- Moisture-wicking properties to manage sweat
- Stylish designs that showcase team pride
- Versatility for wear beyond the lacrosse field
As the sport’s popularity has grown, so has the demand for lacrosse-themed apparel that speaks to the culture and lifestyle surrounding the game. This has led to an explosion of creative designs and innovative features in lacrosse hoodies.
Men’s Lacrosse Hoodies: Blending Toughness with Trendsetting Style
The men’s lacrosse hoodie market caters to a wide range of preferences, from the aspiring youth player to the seasoned veteran. But what sets apart a truly great men’s lacrosse hoodie?
Key features of standout men’s lacrosse hoodies include:
- Bold graphics that showcase lacrosse motifs
- Durable construction for longevity
- Athletic cuts that allow for layering
- Moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort during play
- Versatile designs suitable for casual wear
Many brands now offer unique, limited-edition designs that appeal to the fashion-conscious lacrosse player. These hoodies often feature clever lacrosse-related slogans, intricate stick designs, or stylized team logos that resonate with the sport’s culture.
The Rise of Lacrosse-Inspired Streetwear
Interestingly, lacrosse hoodies have transcended their athletic roots to become part of the broader streetwear scene. This crossover appeal has led to collaborations between lacrosse brands and fashion designers, resulting in hoodies that are as at home on urban streets as they are on the sidelines.
Some popular styles in this category include:
- Vintage-inspired designs with distressed logos
- Minimalist hoodies with subtle lacrosse elements
- High-end materials like premium fleece or performance blends
- Crossover designs that incorporate other sports or cultural references
Youth Lacrosse Hoodies: Inspiring the Next Generation of Players
For young lacrosse enthusiasts, a hoodie is more than just clothing—it’s a badge of honor and a symbol of their passion for the sport. How do youth lacrosse hoodies differ from their adult counterparts?
Youth lacrosse hoodies often feature:
- Bright, eye-catching colors and designs
- Durable construction to withstand active wear
- Sizes that accommodate growing players
- Easy-care fabrics for busy parents
- Positive messages that encourage sportsmanship and skill development
Many youth lacrosse hoodies also incorporate educational elements, such as diagrams of field positions or stick-handling techniques, making them both fashionable and functional for young players learning the game.
The Impact of Pop Culture on Youth Lacrosse Apparel
While shows like “Teen Wolf” have come and gone, their influence on youth lacrosse apparel remains. How has pop culture shaped the design of youth lacrosse hoodies?
Pop culture influences in youth lacrosse hoodies include:
- References to popular lacrosse-themed movies and TV shows
- Incorporation of trending design elements from broader youth fashion
- Crossover designs that blend lacrosse with other popular youth interests
- Limited edition releases tied to cultural events or media launches
However, the most enduring designs focus on the timeless aspects of the sport itself, ensuring that the hoodie remains relevant long after specific pop culture references have faded.
Women’s Lacrosse Hoodies: Combining Performance with Feminine Flair
The women’s lacrosse hoodie market has expanded significantly in recent years, reflecting the growing participation of women in the sport. What unique features do women’s lacrosse hoodies offer?
Key aspects of women’s lacrosse hoodies include:
- Tailored fits that complement feminine silhouettes
- Performance fabrics that manage moisture effectively
- Stylish designs that transition from field to casual wear
- Color palettes that appeal to a range of preferences
- Thoughtful details like thumbholes or zippered pockets
Many brands now offer women’s-specific lacrosse hoodies that are designed not just as smaller versions of men’s styles, but as unique pieces that cater to the preferences and needs of female players and fans.
Empowering Designs in Women’s Lacrosse Apparel
Beyond mere aesthetics, women’s lacrosse hoodies often feature empowering messages and designs that celebrate the strength and skill of female athletes. How do these designs impact the wearer’s confidence and connection to the sport?
Empowering elements in women’s lacrosse hoodies include:
- Slogans that highlight female athletic achievement
- Graphics showcasing dynamic female lacrosse players in action
- Designs that challenge gender stereotypes in sports
- Collaborations with female lacrosse stars and influencers
These design choices not only create attractive apparel but also serve to inspire and motivate female players to excel in the sport.
The Importance of Premium Quality in Lacrosse Hoodies
When it comes to lacrosse hoodies, quality is paramount. Why does the choice of materials and construction matter so much in lacrosse apparel?
High-quality lacrosse hoodies offer several advantages:
- Enhanced durability for long-lasting wear
- Superior comfort during both athletic and casual use
- Better temperature regulation and moisture management
- Improved retention of shape and color after washing
- Greater overall value for the investment
Many top lacrosse apparel brands use a blend of cotton and polyester, often in a 50/50 ratio, to achieve the ideal balance of comfort, durability, and performance. This blend offers the soft feel of cotton with the moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties of polyester.
The Science Behind Performance Fleece
Performance fleece has become a go-to material for high-quality lacrosse hoodies. But what makes this fabric so suitable for lacrosse apparel?
Key benefits of performance fleece in lacrosse hoodies include:
- Excellent insulation without excessive weight
- Breathability to prevent overheating during activity
- Quick-drying properties to manage sweat
- Soft texture for enhanced comfort
- Durability to withstand frequent washing and wear
Advanced performance fleece may also incorporate technologies like anti-odor treatments or UV protection, further enhancing its suitability for athletic wear.
Customization and Team Spirit: The Heart of Lacrosse Hoodies
Customization plays a crucial role in lacrosse hoodies, allowing teams and individuals to express their unique identity. How does customization enhance the appeal and functionality of lacrosse hoodies?
Benefits of customized lacrosse hoodies include:
- Strengthened team unity through consistent branding
- Increased player pride and motivation
- Improved fan engagement and merchandise sales
- Ability to incorporate specific team achievements or mottos
- Potential for fundraising through special edition designs
Many lacrosse apparel providers offer customization services, allowing teams to create unique designs that reflect their school colors, mascots, and team culture.
The Role of Limited Editions in Lacrosse Apparel
Limited edition lacrosse hoodies have become increasingly popular, creating a sense of exclusivity and collectibility. How do these limited runs impact the lacrosse apparel market?
Effects of limited edition lacrosse hoodies include:
- Increased demand and perceived value
- Creation of “must-have” items for dedicated fans
- Opportunities for creative, boundary-pushing designs
- Enhanced brand recognition and loyalty
- Potential for resale markets and collector’s items
Many brands now use limited edition releases to test new designs or commemorate special events in the lacrosse world, adding an element of excitement to their product lines.
The Future of Lacrosse Hoodies: Innovations and Trends
As technology and fashion continue to evolve, so too will lacrosse hoodies. What innovations can we expect to see in the coming years?
Potential future developments in lacrosse hoodies include:
- Smart fabrics that adapt to body temperature and activity level
- Integrated wearable technology for performance tracking
- Sustainable materials and eco-friendly production methods
- Advanced customization options, including on-demand printing
- Augmented reality features that enhance the wearer’s experience
These innovations promise to make lacrosse hoodies not just more functional and comfortable, but also more interactive and environmentally conscious.
The Growing Influence of Sustainability in Lacrosse Apparel
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in the production of lacrosse hoodies. How are brands addressing environmental concerns in their apparel lines?
Sustainable practices in lacrosse hoodie production include:
- Use of recycled materials in fabric blends
- Water-saving dyeing and printing techniques
- Ethical manufacturing processes and fair labor practices
- Packaging made from recycled or biodegradable materials
- Programs for recycling or upcycling old lacrosse apparel
As consumers become more environmentally conscious, expect to see more lacrosse apparel brands emphasizing their sustainability credentials and offering eco-friendly options.
The world of lacrosse hoodies is dynamic and ever-evolving, reflecting the spirit of innovation that characterizes the sport itself. From performance-enhancing materials to cutting-edge designs, these versatile garments continue to capture the essence of lacrosse culture while pushing the boundaries of style and functionality. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, there’s a lacrosse hoodie out there that perfectly expresses your passion for the game.
Lacrosse Hoodie | Unique Lacrosse Designs | Hobo Lax
Welcome to our lacrosse hoodie collection. Here you will find premium hooded sweatshirts that are designed for function as well as comfort, so you can wear them on and off the field.
All of our products are inspired by genuine laxers. Our stylish, soft and comfortable lax clothing is perfect for keeping you warm on the sidelines while also turning heads on the streets. Many of our pieces are limited edition, so make sure you order them while stocks last!
While you’re looking at our awesome wares, ensure you are subscribed to our newsletter below. We are constantly releasing new pieces, so stay tuned! Who knows, you may even get a discount code or two right to your inbox. Not only that, subscribers always get early access to our latest concept drops. They are so popular some don’t even make it on our website! These products are hidden to everyone else just browsing, so make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss out!
Shop Men’s Lacrosse Hoodies
Are you an aspiring lax dad that needs a new look for the sideline? Perhaps you’re an old lacrosse stud who’s not ready to be put to pasture.
Or, maybe you’re a drippy D1 college athlete that understands his off field game needs to be as strong as his on field tilt. Well, you’re in luck because Hobolax has you covered.
Suit up in one of our unique hoodie designs, and start ripping G’s off the field too. You’ll look tougher than a pair of woodpecker lips, and yet somehow as irresistible as a box of puppies. Real men wear Hobo. These are the facts, please don’t ignore them.
Disclaimer: Hobolax is not responsible for any extra sexual tension you may encounter while wearing our custom drip.
Shop Youth Lacrosse Hoodies
Are you still looking for a Beacon Hills sweatshirt? Have you forgotten that Teen Wolf was actually a thing when your dad was your age? I mean sure, back then it was basketball, and had about as much drip as a piece of sandpaper. But, you still somehow need that Isaac Lahey lax look, and you need it bad, right? Wrong!.
.. and no, we aren’t talking Stiles Stilinski either. Show’s come and go, and if you’re lucky you’ll get two wears out of that overpriced sweatshirt before the tide turns and no one cares anymore. Unless, of course, you go Hobo.
Hobolax is all about the perma-drippy wear my young lax crazed brethren. You can never be behind the curve or look out of place anywhere wearing a Hobolax sweater. Rocking up to Practice? Crispy cuffs and a hooded sweatshirt. Meeting the queen of England? A top cheddar hoodie is all you ever need. Don’t follow trends – make them. Your great uncle roger’s funeral is just begging to have you show up in a sick tie-dye lax skin, and you know it.
Shop Women’s Fleece Lacrosse Hoodie
At Hobolax we don’t have a extended women’s range, but what we do have is quite literally – everything. If you’re a female laxer yourself, or even if you’ve got a little one on your hands, we’ve got a pullover hoodie that is cut right, has a cozy inside for when you’re cold, and will have your team needing the inside scoop on where you shop.
Our women’s hoody collections are basically pieces of art made reality. Why not wear something that makes you look good on the outside, while making feel like you’re wrapped in the warm embrace of an emotional support animal on the inside. Cold hands? Just throw them in the convenient front pouch pocket.
Need that grungy “I have a boyfriend” look? Well… just buy one of our dank men’s lacrosse hoodies instead, because obviously you’ve got issues. But that’s okay! Just make sure it’s the size of the guy you’re “dating” and not somehow magically fitting like a glove.
Premium Quality Fleece Sweatshirt
Show your love for the game and feel comfy – what’s not to love? We’re confident that once you try our lax clothing that you’ll be right back filling your basket again and again. Our hooded garments are all sourced from trusted manufacturers, ensuring that you get only premium lacrosse apparel.
Right now our collection is small, but with your help we want to grow into a well established and much loved lax brand.
All our pullovers are made from a thick 50/50 blend of cotton/polyester. This feature ensures durability, comfort, a fit that doesn’t change and even some added stretch for mobility. Your chosen item will be pre-shrunk to ensure no surprises when washing. Just be advised that turning them inside out when putting them on a wash cycle will prolong the print as much as possible.
Shipping of your sweatshirt will be flat packed, vacuum sealed and ready to wear right out of the package. All products are always available and in stock because we print to order. So if you see a product that says “you missed out”, don’t think to revisit – that masterpiece is gone forever, so you had better pick something else fast.
If you want to be kept updated on new releases so you never miss out again, sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of any page.
Unique and Limited Edition Lacrosse Apparel
Some of our apparel is limited edition, meaning we only print 99 of each design for sale. Using this process means you’ll rarely see anyone wearing the same sick apparel as you. You’re literally in an exclusive club that once sold, cannot be bought into.
To avoid disappointment, add your favorite piece to your cart and place an order as soon as possible, or you could miss out on your next favorite product. Get them before it’s too late!
If you have any queries or ideas for a cool new artwork, feel free to reach out to us through email or social media. Our team is always here to help!
Still not convinced you need a lacrosse pullover hoodie?
We get it.
You started looking online and thought that maybe you’d get a sweet New balance or Nike lacrosse hoodie like your buddy wears. Or maybe you wanted your favorite college clothing from John Hopkins, or Notre Dame? Now, there’s this sweet Hobolax site that’s blowing your mind and you’re understandably torn. Trust us, no one cares about seeing a new swoosh on your chest. At least, not more than they do a unique badass lax design that blows your cleats off.
Don’t believe us? Check out our awesome reviews from your fellow laxers. Just search the store, pick anything with a hood, hit the order button and show up to practice one day. You will immediately take your place among the lax god’s and bask in the drippy glory. Besides, when you or your kid finally get recruited, you’re going to get all the college lax gear you could ever want anyway.
Shop smart – shop lacrosse.
Hoodies and Crewnecks
– Premier Lacrosse League Shop
163 products
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163 products
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The Globe Hoodie | PLL x Method Man
$75.00
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Redwoods x Method Man Hoodie | PLL x Method Man
$75.00
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Hempstead Hoodie Black | PLL x Method Man
$75.00
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The Method Hoodie | PLL x Method Man
$90.00
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Tonal Shield Hoodie Teal
$70.00
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Tonal Shield Hoodie Lime
$70.00
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Champion League Reverse Weave Crew – Black
$69.50
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Whipsnakes All-Over Hoodie
$79.
00
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Waterdogs All-Over Hoodie
$79.00
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Redwoods All-Over Hoodie
$79.00
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Chrome All-Over Hoodie
$79.00
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Cannons All-Over Hoodie
$79.00
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Chaos All-Over Hoodie
$79.00
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Atlas All-Over Hoodie
$79.00
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Archers All-Over Hoodie
$79.00
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Champion Cannons Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.00
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Champion Atlas Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.00
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Champion Archers Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.00
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Champion Redwoods Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.00
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Champion Whipsnakes Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.
00
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Champion Chaos Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.00
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Champion Chrome Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.00
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Champion Waterdogs Reverse Weave Crop Hoodie – Women’s
$55.00
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Champion Whipsnakes Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.50
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Champion Chrome Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.50
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Champion Redwoods Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.50
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Champion Atlas Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.50
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Champion Cannons Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.50
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Champion Chaos Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.50
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Champion Waterdogs Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.
50
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Champion Archers Reverse Weave Crew – Women’s
$69.50
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Chrome Almost Friday Fedora Pullover Hoodie – Sean Sconone
$60.00
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Chaos Championship Chug Pullover Hoodie – Jack Rowlett
$60.00
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Cannons Almost Friday Flex Pullover Hoodie – Paul Rabil
$60.00
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Cannons Almost Friday Celly Pullover Hoodie – Bubba Fairman
$60.00
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Chrome Almost Friday Mood Pullover Hoodie – Connor Farrell
$60.00
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Chaos Almost Friday Grin Pullover Hoodie – Dhane Smith
$60.00
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Chaos Almost Friday Cigar Pullover Hoodie – Blaze Riorden
$60.00
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Chaos Locker Room Celly Pullover Hoodie
$60.00
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Chaos Crowning Moment Pullover Hoodie
$60.
00
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Tonal Shield Hoodie Teal – Youth
$60.00
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Tonal Shield Hoodie Lime – Youth
$60.00
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Whipsnakes All-Over Hoodie – Youth
$74.00
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Waterdogs All-Over Hoodie – Youth
$74.00
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Redwoods All-Over Hoodie – Youth
$74.00
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Chrome All-Over Hoodie – Youth
$74.00
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Archers All-Over Hoodie – Youth
$74.00
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Cannons All-Over Hoodie – Youth
$74.00
China Rugby Suppliers, Manufacturers, Factory – Custom
Custom Hoodies Pricelist
Polyester Sublimation Hockey Jersey
● Reversible stretch material
● Performance of polyester interlock or striped knit collar
● Name and number will match colors and fonts.
..Add to Request
Team Sublimated Youth Lacrosse Reversible Pinnies
● Suitable for many sports such as lacrosse practice, summer travel teams or indoor sports.
● 100% polyester lightweight breathable mesh
● 2 layer fabric
●…Add to Request
Team Sublimation Baseball Jerseys
● Full Button Down Team Sublimated Baseball Jersey
● Sports Tank Top
● Dry Excel Poly Spandex
● Fully sublimated
● Custom label of your brand and tag…Add to Request
Baseball shirt with sublimated printing
● Material: 100 percent polyester 165gsm micro Mesh fabric
● Printing: Full dye sublimation printing, free to add any logo and color on the jersey
● Design: Custom design
● Size: Youth.. .Add to Request
Polyester sublimated American football T-shirts
● Spandex Struted fabric + performance grid
● MITILENT V-shaped cut 9000Add to Request
Team Sublimation Basketball Jerseys
● Full custom jersey (FREE FOR COLOR CHANGE OR OTHER DESIGN CHANGE)
● V-Neck
● Team Sublimated Basketball Jerseys
● Standard 160 gsm. ..Add to Request
Football jersey and shorts set
● Regular football jersey and shorts set
● Soft, breathable, lightweight feel
● Athletic fit fits snugly over the body and arms
● Quick dry fabric keeps you light
●…Add to Request
Men’s Rugby Jersey Sublimation print
● 100% Dri-Fit polyester material
● Helps to quickly absorb and evaporate sweat.
● Made from high quality fabric. Reinforced collar prevents
● Extra space in…Add to Request
Custom made jiu jitsu rash guards
This style of rash guard is fully subimposed with strong, soft and stretchy fabric, it can give you more space and feel at ease when you do jiu jitsu sport, it can be…
Add to Request
Bjj No Gi Wear Rashguard
Customize your own design bjj no gi rash guard with superior performance spandex and polyester material, any styles, designs and materials can be customized as your requests.
Add to Request
Sublimation Grappling Rush Guard
We specialize in custom grappling and jiu jitsu clothing, especially for MMA shorts, rash protection, splits, etc. Whether you need another custom…
Add to Request
Men’s Sublimation Rash Long Sleeve BJJ Rash Guard
We have very rich and professional experience in custom combat clothing. If you want to customize MMA Shorts, BJJ Rashguard, Socks, just contact us, we…
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Dunks, Jordans and more at Nike Doernbecher Freestyle 2022
Since 2004, Nike has raised more than $30 million through its Doernbecher Freestyle event, which it has donated to OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. This hospital conducts pioneering research and provides specialized patient care. The Doerbecher Freestyle humanitarian event has become one of the most important events in the sneaker world.
Sneakerheads can support a worthy cause in the best and most enjoyable way – to buy sneakers. Due to the COVID-19 pandemicDoernbecher Freestyle went on hiatus in 2020 and 2021, and now the event is back in 2022 with seven striking designs created by hospital patients who worked closely with Nike’s design team.
Like previous Doernbecher Freestyle events, this event followed the same pattern: several child patients from OHSU each worked with their own Nike design team to help them bring their ideas to life. This inspiring experience gives each patient the unique opportunity to design their own Nike shoes, and since 2004, more than 100 children have had the opportunity. As a result, seven different models appeared, such as Air Jordan 5 Low, LeBron 19and Dunk Low, each containing details that are very precious and meaningful to each of the seven designers.
The Nike Doernbecher Freestyle 2022 Collection was released on April 30, 2022 via SNKRS.
AIR JORDAN 5 LOW – MICHAEL WILSON
Two months after Michael “Spitfire” Wilson was born, he was diagnosed with Krabbe disease, a rare genetic disease that destroys the protective coating of nerve cells in the brain and threatens the nervous system.
The disease is often fatal, but Michael had a hero – his older brother Marshall.
“Marshall also had Krabbe disease,” Michael explained. “Because of his symptoms and diagnosis, doctors knew to watch for this disease when I was a child and were able to detect it much earlier. My brother helped save my life, but he passed away five years after his diagnosis.”
Because Michael’s disease was diagnosed at an early stage, he is a candidate for life-saving cord blood stem cell transplantation, which can stop Krabbe’s disease before it starts degenerative progression. The operation was performed on February 10, 2011 and was 100% successful. “I call it my rebirth day,” Michael smiles.
Ten years later, Michael is a normal happy kid with a serious love for airplanes, sharks and macaroni and cheese. Proof of this are his Air Jordan 5 Retro Low shoes. A ferocious shark glides down the sides, and the entire suede upper is laser-etched with a cartoon mac and cheese print. Details on the laces can be changed at will and create a new mood every time.
Do you want to take off your shoes? Simply pull on the “extraction” loop at the heel.
Michael’s motto “Take off” is also printed on the shoes and reflects his desire to become a pilot. “The moments when I’m down, I imagine taking off, hovering in the air, dunking and winning a championship like Michael Jordan did,” Mike says enthusiastically. “I want people to read my slogan and immediately feel stronger, just like me.”
Michael says that he has a secret weapon that helps him overcome even the most difficult trials: “I rejoice with all my heart!”. In addition to happiness, he is also deeply grateful to his entire medical team at OHSU Doernbecher.
“They did an amazing job of taking care of me and curing me,” he said. “Without my team, I wouldn’t be here today.”
NIKE DUNK LOW – ZOE TAAFFF
Zoe Taaffe is literally one in a million. When she was in high school, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that causes severe inflammation of the blood vessels.
It is such a rare condition that it only affects one in 1.2 million patients.
“For several months I had all these strange symptoms: swelling, cough, rash and fever,” Zoe said. “But no one could see the full picture until I got to Dörnbecher. There I was told: “Let’s put you in the intensive care unit and deal with this.” And they did it.”
Zoya’s stabilization required multiple blood transfusions, plasma transfusions, steroids and chemotherapy. Although a long stay in the hospital did not bring much pleasure, Zoe was able to get to know her chosen profession better.
“I’ve always liked medicine and originally wanted to be a surgeon,” says Zoe. “But after I got to the hospital, I decided that I wanted to be a nurse. My nursing team holds a special place in my heart because they showed me the meaning of kindness and compassion. This is the kind of positive I would like to bring to the field of medicine.”
Zoe’s positive attitude is especially evident in her Nike Dunk Low version.
On the surface, this is just a cool tribute to her beloved Oregon Ducks team. But look closer and you’ll notice Zoe’s name cleverly hidden in a zebra stripe print. Take a closer look and you will realize that this is more than a zebra – it is a subtle nod to the stretch marks that the steroids have created on Zoe’s body.
“I believe that all people are unique, like zebra stripes,” she said. “I’m also a big believer in body positivity – kids should learn to love their bodies no matter what. This experience taught me that what you go through doesn’t define you – what you do with it matters.”
Zoe’s sneakers feature a glow-in-the-dark sole, a nurses sign in the colors of her favorite Oregon club on the insoles, and “fearless” written on the laces. Interchangeable Velcro Swooshes allow you to customize your sneakers to fit your look.
Zoey is now feeling much better and can return to her favorite activities such as baking and writing music. Zoe also plays on the lacrosse team and is now striving for new victories.
Zoey is very happy that her shoes will help inspire other children like her.
“I think my shoes are a constant reminder that we are all special, we all have rare qualities and we are all one in a million,” she said emphatically. “I hope this inspires people to be fearless and achieve whatever they want.”
NIKE LEBRON 19 – SAM DAVID PHELPS
Sam David is not the type of kid to back down from a challenge. Like his sister and fellow designer Maylee, he was born with spina bifida. However, that doesn’t stop him from being a force to be reckoned with on and off the basketball court. His goal is to play on the USA men’s wheelchair basketball team, but for now, he continues to hone his game with the Portland WheelBlazers.
Outside of basketball, this outgoing and energetic boy enjoys building complex Lego sets and practicing adaptive archery. “I even hit the top ten!” he said proudly. Sam is very close to his family. He says his mom Rebecca is his hero. “Because I was adopted from China, I didn’t have a mother before,” he explained.
“My mom is very kind and always ready to help my siblings when we need it.”
Sam David’s favorite athlete is LeBron James, so of course he was overjoyed to learn that he would be designing based on King James’ signature shoe. “I was completely speechless when I found out!” he smiled.
His version of the LeBron 19 features a luxurious design with metallic gold details, zippers and his own sports wheelchair logo. It also has a very special detail on it: a Nike pillow that is inscribed with Sam’s initials, his year of birth, and his motto: “Never give up.” “I want to inspire people to never give up on their dreams,” he said. “If you set yourself up right, there is no limit to what you can do.”
Sam David and his family moved to Portland from Mississippi so that he and his sister could get state of the art care at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, and Sam David says he’s thrilled they did. “At first I was a little afraid to meet with all my doctors and therapists,” he admitted.
“But everyone has been so kind to me. I am very grateful for all the time and energy they have put into helping me.”
NIKE BLAZER MID ’77 – AYMAN WAMALA
In every story, the hero faces incredible challenges only to overcome them and become better and stronger. So Ayman Wamala identifies himself with powerful anime characters and superheroes.
Born in Kenya, Aiman was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at an early age. “When it was really bad, it felt like my whole body was being beaten with a sledgehammer,” he explained. Four years ago, his family moved to Portland, and Ayman began treatment at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. “The doctors there gave me medicine and I definitely felt better and stronger,” he said.
Ayman’s extraordinary personality is perfect for his career aspirations: he hopes to become an actor. He has already begun building his resume by playing one of the main characters in a production of Jumanji at his school.
When not on stage, Ayman enjoys playing football, cooking and honing his wilderness survival skills.
“I like to be ready for anything,” he proudly declared.
As for his Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Vintage, they’re based on Ayman’s alter ego: the enigmatic, mind-reading character you’ll find on the tongue. The triangular pattern represents protective armor, while the subtle tiger stripes hold a secret: they glow bright blue in ultraviolet light.
The red blood cells on the outsole symbolize Ayman’s history, while the words “Hope”, “Strength” and “Persistence” around his logo will help you on your life’s journeys. Because a little wisdom never hurts, the phrase “Life is uncertain…make quick decisions in tough situations” is printed on the side of the midsole. “I think this phrase has a lot to do with the lives of many people,” Ayman said. “Whether it’s COVID-19 or some other unexpected problem, you have to be able to adapt to it and then rise above it.”
The words of a true hero.
NIKE ZOOM VAPOR CAGE 4 – MAILEY PHELPS
Mailey Phelps is a real wrestler in this modest girl.
She is an accomplished young wheelchair tennis player, currently ranked 11th in the world and hopes to represent the United States at the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. Of course, this plan also includes one golden item.
Maylee was born with spina bifida, a condition in which the spine and spinal cord do not develop properly. She has had many surgeries over the years at OHSU Doernbecher to improve her mobility and is now learning how to use crutches. “All my doctors are wonderful,” she said. “They inspire me to play wheelchair tennis and feel good so I can keep doing what I want to do.”
In addition to tennis, Mailey enjoys doing arts and crafts, playing with her pug Otis, and baking delicious treats (her signature dish is raspberry macaroons). After her Paralympic career, Meili plans to open her own bakery, which is good news not only for people. “I want to make treats for both people and dogs,” she smiled.
Maylee’s NikeCourt Zoom Vapor Cage 4 is filled with personal symbols, like hand-drawn stars and a cool, iridescent sole in all her favorite colors.
To draw attention to adaptive athletics, she added an image of the spine to the tongue, as well as a blue spina bifida ribbon to the heel. Along the midsole, you’ll find “Keep moving” lettering no matter what life throws at you. “That phrase helps me stay motivated on the court and in life,” Mailey explained. “I thought she could help other people too.”
NIKE AIR FORCE 1 FONTANKA – SIDNEY O’BRIEN
Sydney was playing soccer in 2018 and suddenly felt a sudden pain in her chest. By the time she got to the edge of the field, she was already in cardiac arrest. Fortunately, Sydney’s mom is a nurse, so she was able to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and saved her daughter’s life.
When she arrived at OHSU Doernbecher, Sydney was diagnosed with an abnormal origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. This means that an important artery supplying her heart was attached in the wrong place, and Sydney’s heart was not getting enough oxygen, causing a dangerous deterioration in cardiac function.
After six months and one major heart operation, Sydney returned to the field and played for her high school team, the Lebanese Warriors. Her Air Force 1 Fontanka is football-inspired and pays homage to her teammates as well as all her favorite animals. Spoiler: there are a LOT of them. Look closely at the shoelaces and you will see the names Tito (parrot), Bosco (donkey), Cheese-its, Tuber and Jonathan (goats), Carol Busk-hyun (chicken), Copper (dog) and Swim Shady (fish) – and these are just some of them!
The name of Sidney’s horse – Tank – is applied to the left insole, and the mention of the girl’s mother – Nikki – is on the right. “I took Tank because I didn’t know if I would ever play football again and he really helped lift my spirits,” Sidney explained. “And my mom is my hero. Without her, I wouldn’t be here.”
Flip Sydney’s shoe over and you’ll find another of her favorite things on the sole, shrimp pasta. (Can you find her name among all this noodles?).
“It’s my favorite food in the whole world, so of course it had to be on my sneakers,” she laughed.
Now that Sydney is on her way to recovery, this active, good-natured girl is looking to the future and plans to one day work with horses. She will continue to approach each day with the same positive attitude and fighting spirit that got her to where she is now.
NIKE SB STEFAN JANOSKI – CATALINA VAZQES
Most kids dream of one day going to Disneyland or maybe Hawaii. But not Catalina Vasquez. This adventurous 16-year-old has set her sights on a far more exotic destination: the Galapagos Islands. “I think it’s great in its own way. Special turtles and iguanas live there, isolated from the rest of the world,” she explained.
Catalina’s love of the Galápagos inspired her Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski. The hand-drawn flowers reflect her love of nature, while the butterfly symbolizes metamorphosis. “I’ve gone through a lot of changes so I’m like a butterfly,” she said.
These changes were an integral part of Catalina’s life. At just three days old, she was diagnosed with von Hippel-Lindau disease, a rare hereditary disease that causes tumors to grow in many organs throughout the body. The tumors affected Catalina’s eyes, spinal cord, and brain, and required five surgeries to remove them.
Despite the difficult journey, Catalina is determined, remains strong and tries to draw attention to her illness. That’s why you’ll find the DNA helix on the side of her sneakers, as well as the VHL Alliance’s powerful statement: “The cure is in our genes.”
In addition to designing shoes, Catalina loves to express her creativity in other ways, such as making realistic sketches of her favorite musicians. She also enjoys gardening and spending time with her three horses: Kit Kat, CT and Nugget. Catalina plans to follow in her mom’s footsteps and study massage therapy, but with a twist. “My mom works with people, but I love horses, so I’m going to combine the two and become a horse masseur,” she smiled.
