Created in 1972 by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman, Nike is an American company specialising in sports shoes, clothing and equipment. Its name is inspired by the Greek goddess Athena Nike, the winged deity of speed and victory. In 1973, Nike launched the legendary Waffle sports shoe, with its revolutionary sole acting as a shock absorber and improving impetus. Since then, Nike has become one of the undisputed leaders in the sports equipment market.