1984

The first Shox prototype was inspired by an exceptionally springy indoor running track at Harvard. The prototype looked more like a medieval torture device called The Boot and performed much the same way. This first Shox prototype was used to find the optimal spring rate but its clumsy and heavy metal frame did little to improve performance.

1984-1986

Based on the information extracted from its predecessor, the section prototype of the Nike Shox line was a scaled down, more stable shoe that used a leaf shaped spring to provide the optimal spring earlier determined by the prototype. While easier on the eyes with good cushioning, it lacked stability and durability.

1986

The third attempt at Shox produced a simpler, more attractive cushioning system that utilized a closed leaf shaped spring but still disappointed in durability, comfort, and stability.

1987

The next generation Shox prototype attempted to solve the problem of durability and stability by replacing the closed leaf spring with a hinged carbon fiber shell, creating something that looked like a running shoe on a diving board. This breed of spring failed to provide enough resistance on impact.

1990

A few years later and still a decade from launching the Shox shoe line, Nike tests the first shoes that are a recognizable ancestor of the modern Shox. By integrating the stability of the spring plate from the previous designs with injection-molded support columns, Nike finally made progress in the creation of Shox technology.

1997-1998

New, high tech, high durability materials made the leaf spring obsolete and brought about the current form for Nike Shox: four cushioning columns between two resilient plates. The result is an effective cushioning system with a high energy return.

2001

Nike releases the first Shox based shoe.

2004

The release of two popular Shox basketball shoes, the Nike Shox Explosive and the Nike Shox Elevate. The Shox VC IV, Shox signature shoe for Vince Carter, is also released.

2008

Some of the new Shox are compatible with the Nike+iPod feature, particularly the Nike Shox Saya.

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