TINKER HATFIELD'S LEGACY UNDER THE MICROSCOPE — Quick Facts
The architect of sneaker culture Tinker Hatfield's designs built a billion-dollar empire while battling back from catastrophic brain injury. Here's his endur...
Key Data Points
- Michael Jordan's Dynasty Collection featuring six Tinker Hatfield-designed sneakers sold for $8 million at auction in February 2024, setting a global record for game-worn shoes
- Hatfield suffered a catastrophic brain injury in 2022 during a Pole Pedal Paddle cycling event but continues Nike design work despite ongoing symptoms including headaches and depression
- Nike's Air Jordan 4 'Black Cat' and Air Jordan 5 'Wolf Grey' releasing in 2025-2026 show Hatfield's designs still dominate sneaker culture four decades after joining Nike in 1981
Frequently Asked
- How much did Michael Jordan's Dynasty Collection sell for at auction?
- Michael Jordan's Dynasty Collection of six Tinker Hatfield-designed sneakers sold for $8 million at auction in February 2024, setting a global record for game-worn shoes.
- What happened to Tinker Hatfield in 2022?
- Tinker Hatfield suffered a catastrophic brain injury in 2022 during a Pole Pedal Paddle cycling fund-raising event in central Oregon, resulting in ongoing symptoms including headaches, anxiety, and depression.
- What was Tinker Hatfield's most famous sneaker design?
- The Air Max 1, released in 1987, was Tinker Hatfield's most iconic design, featuring visible Air cushioning inspired by the Pompidou Center in Paris and revolutionizing sneaker technology.
- When did Tinker Hatfield join Nike?
- Tinker Hatfield joined Nike in 1981 and has remained influential in sneaker design for over four decades, with new Air Jordan releases planned for 2025-2026.
- Is Tinker Hatfield still working for Nike after his injury?
- Yes, Tinker Hatfield remains a vice president of design and special projects for Nike at age 72, though he is currently on extended injury leave while continuing to recover from his brain injury.