8 years ago Matthew Walzer, who has Cerebral Palsy, wrote a letter to Nike highlighting the fact that there were no athletic shoes for people with disabilities like his own. The then 16-year-old wrote: “Out of all the challenges I have overcome in my life, there is one that I am still trying to master, tying my shoes.
“Cerebral palsy stiffens the muscles in the body. As a result I have flexibility in only one of my hands which makes it impossible for me to tie my shoes. My dream is to go to the college of my choice without having to worry about someone coming to tie my shoes everyday.”
After receiving the letter, Nike then invited Matthew to collaborate with them in designing a hands-free hinged sneaker and after years of hard work, Nike have now unveiled the ‘Nike GO FlyEase.’
Designed by Nike’s Toby Hatfield, the hinged shoe closes when the wearer’s heel is pressed down. The shoes will be available on February 15th to select Nike members and then there will be a wider release later this year.
Positive World Online 