EUGENE, Ore. – The Oregon Ducks football program unveiled a special uniform set this week designed to honor Nike co-founder Phil Knight, whose decades of support have helped elevate the university into a national athletics powerhouse.
The tribute, dubbed the “Shoe Duck” uniforms, will debut Saturday when the Ducks take on Oregon State. The program also released a video and photos on Sunday celebrating Knight’s legacy.
A Tribute to a Lifelong Supporter
Knight, a University of Oregon alum and one of its most influential donors, has long resisted recognition that bears his name. But Ducks players and coaches said the uniforms represent a way to show appreciation.
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“We’re just grateful for everything he’s done,” said senior linebacker Bryce Boettcher. “We wouldn’t be the University of Oregon—the Mecca—without his help. And even though he doesn’t want his flowers—naming buildings after other people, which is great—this is our way of giving him his flowers. Recognizing that we’re just grateful that he’s been able to help us along the way.”
Inspiration From ‘Shoe Dog’
The design process involved input from both players and coaches, ensuring the tribute was authentic to Knight’s story. Many details trace back to his 2016 memoir, “Shoe Dog,” which chronicles Nike’s founding.
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The anthracite base color and gold cleats were inspired by the cover of Knight’s book.
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The project’s name, “Shoe Duck,” directly nods to the title.
Subtle Historical Details
Other features highlight key moments in Nike’s history. The gloves bear a waffle pattern, recalling the waffle iron that former Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman used to create Nike’s first prototype running shoes.
The matte helmet design incorporates multiple layers of symbolism. On one side, the helmet carries the familiar Duck wing emblem seen on past Oregon helmets. On the other, it features the wing of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. Together, the dual images mimic the tail design on Knight’s private jet, linking his personal and professional passions.
Continuing a Legacy
The Ducks’ reputation for bold, innovative uniforms has long been tied to Nike’s creative partnership. With the “Shoe Duck” set, players say they feel a deeper connection to the man behind the brand.
For Knight, the recognition is less about style and more about impact—both on the university’s athletic profile and on the thousands of student-athletes who have worn Oregon’s colors over the decades.
The Ducks hope Saturday’s game against Oregon State will be more than just another chapter in their rivalry. For players and fans, it will also be a visible thank-you to the alum whose vision helped put Oregon football on the national map.
