Nike built its global reputation on “Just Do It” and cutting-edge sportswear, but in recent years the swoosh has been just as tied to activism as athletics. From high-profile campaigns with Colin Kaepernick to rainbow-themed Pride collections and sustainability pledges, Nike has positioned itself as the face of corporate activism.
The shift has alienated customers who once saw Nike as purely about performance and athletic excellence. Instead of sticking to shoes and jerseys, Nike now uses its marketing to push political and social causes. While it still dominates the sneaker market, the brand has also become a prime example of how chasing cultural relevance can blur the line between sportswear and social engineering.
