Nike Doernbecher Freestyle XIX 2023

Join us as we take a deep dive into the Nike Doernbecher Freestyle XIX 2023, spotlighting the authentic designs of six inspirational patients.

Since the debut of the heartwarming partnership between Nike and Portland’s OHSU Doernbecher Children’s hospital in 2004, the collaborative project has produced over $33 million for the medical centre. Entering the 19th edition of the project, the Swoosh are back to deliver some striking iterations, straight from the creative minds of Doernbecher patients. Set to land sometime in December, let’s get into the Nike Doernbecher Freestyle XIX 2023!

Sure, collaborations with fashion labels and designers are great, but a collab hits a little differently when the essence goes beyond pretty colours. For just under two decades, the Swoosh annually selects six patients from the hospital to design their very own Nike shoe, with the help of some specialists. The outcome? Beautifully constructed models that tell stories of expression, challenges and achievement. This year’s offerings feature some Nike bangers, featuring the Air Jordan 3 Retro, Dunk High, AM1, ACG Mountain Fly Low 2, Cortez, and Go Flyease. Read on for a closer look at what’s on offer, and the sentimental inspiration behind these special kicks…

Air Jordan 3 Retro | Hugo Covarrubias Molina

Differing from your average Air Jordan 3 model, this iteration draws inspiration from a place of resilience within individuality. Born with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, Hugo ‘Juice’ Covarrubias Molina has felt the strain of insecurity first-hand. Overcoming his vulnerabilities by learning to appreciate his uniqueness, Hugo hopes to spread a message of self-love with these vibrant kicks. 

Sporting an exterior of blue leather and drippy green detailing, the sneaker is a head-turner for all the right reasons. The empowering motto “It’s OK to be different” graces the translucent outsole, whilst a gold-plated hangtag further celebrates Hugo’s admirable imprint. Finished off with a heartfelt tribute to his mum and dad within the inner tongue, these AJ3’s couldn’t be more drippy if they tried.

Nike Dunk High | Macey Bodily

Next up is a floral Nike Dunk High, created by 15-year-old Macey Bodily. Macey is a brain cancer survivor, and leads with the touching motto, “she believed she could, so she did”. Working with the Swoosh to produce a flower-powered iteration of the court-coded model, the shoe references her admirable journey as well as her passion for baking. A grey ribbon at the lateral heel marks the battle she has overcome, whilst her mantra on the midsole encourages others to keep pushing. 

A flurry of flower-embroidery floods the overlays, complimenting the baby pink hue within the Swoosh, insole and eyelets. Embellished into the inner tongue is Macey’s very own chocolate chip recipe, an ode to her favourite dessert. We’ll let you know how we get on, Macey!

Nike Air Max 1 | Hailey Leyva

Also opting for a pink theme, Hailey Levya tackles the Nike Air Max 1 ‘86. Having undergone five surgeries to mend the valves of her heart, Hailey doesn’t let challenges dull her sparkle, reflected perfectly in this sparkling iteration. Expressing hot pink hues throughout the exterior, these playful kicks feature a plethora of heartfelt touches. The toe box and heel host a handful of red hand-drawn hearts, symbolising each of her family members. 

Linework at the midsole and laces, also drawn by Levya herself, represents the calm of the waves. Meanwhile, shining accents in the outer and Air unit reflect her gleaming personality amidst the chaos. These definitely get a thumbs up from us, Hailey!

Nike ACG Mountain Fly Low 2 | Garrett Amerson

Next, we have an outdoor-crafted iteration of the Nike ACG Mountain Fly Low 2, driven by 12-year-old Garrett Amerson. Having been born 15 weeks earlier than his due date, Garrett experienced extreme prematurity as a baby. However, with determination and drive, he didn’t allow this factor to hold him back in life. Paying homage to his hometown of the Pacific Northwest, Garrett transforms the ACG model into a landscaped masterpiece. 

Utilising the components of the sneaker to create an impressive exterior, the story works from the outer upwards, starting with realistic-looking splashes of mud. A picture of trees, mountains and a skyline graces the textural upper, whilst the tongue and lacing unit creates the picture of a flowing waterfall. Embedded with a heartfelt touch – a butterfly motif honours Garrett’s late twin brother, who lost his life in the NICU.

Nike Cortez | Sydney Little

Despite battling juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Sydney Little doesn’t let her condition get her down. In fact, she does quite the opposite, competing as a swimmer as well as making art. Tackling the Nike Cortez from a perspective of spreading positivity, this iteration is guaranteed to brighten your day. Centering the hibiscus flower, the sneaker contrasts neon green and pristine white hues, but the real magic happens when the lights are off. After all, what’s more bright and fun than glow-in-the-dark Swoosh and outer? We’re loving the energy of this one, reminiscent of Sydney’s shining positivity throughout dark times. 

Nike Go Flyease | Christopher Musquiz Jr.

Last, but certainly not least, we have Christopher Musquiz Jr.’s version of the Nike Go Flyease. After losing his leg in a bike accident on his way to school, Christopher didn’t let the incident hold him back. Drawing inspiration from the 14-year-olds love with Japanese culture, the model dons a kimono-resembling wrap. As well as the cultural influence, the sneaker tells the story of his ideal day, relaxing at the beach with his favourite animal – a panda. 

The phrase “smarter than you think” ingrains the sock-liner, as well as an imaginative graphic depicting footprints to the portal that leads us to the reality whereby beaches and panda’s co-exist. 10 out of 10 for creativity!

The Nike Doernbecher Freestyle XIX 2023 is due to drop next month (December ‘23). Stay locked on our socials @thedropdate for the latest updates!