Nike SB Makes Leo Baker The First Transgender Athlete With a Signature Sneaker
Leo Baker has become the latest skateboarder to get their own signature sneaker from Nike SB, but there’s a greater significance beyond what’s already a benchmark in any pro skater’s career.
The React Leo, which comes in genderless sizing, makes Baker the first transgender athlete to get their own sneaker. Baker withdrew from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the first to feature skateboarding, in order to come out as a trans man.
Baker’s mid-top kicks address the needs of a contemporary skate shoe with a number of durable properties. Triple-reinforced stitching is used in the ollie area and toe, while the cupsole opts for hybrid-vulcanization. The midsole also packs React foam, offering some of the same responsiveness found throughout Nike’s performance models in a variety of sports. A mid-top cut was also chosen in order to give it the feeling of already having been broken in.
“I wanted the shoe to be utilitarian with elevated moments and fashion-y vibes but ultimately to be a great skate shoe,” Baker said in a press release. “The overlays with the toe cap create three layers, so it takes a long time to wear through. The triple stitching on the toe really helps with the durability. I wanted it to last long but skate well out of the box, so this new vulc-cup combo is perfect for that. It’s everything I could have ever dreamed of in a shoe. I’m really proud of it.”
Buttery leather is used for the vamp, while suede overlays are placed at high-wear areas. A “Leo” monogram then appears in satin on the midfoot inlays and collar. Each of these elements create a tonal brown look that’s then broken up by a black leather Swoosh, laces, liner, and midsole. More personalized detailing comes through Baker’s full name appearing on the tongue patch and insole.
The Nike SB React Leo is slated to release Sept. 15 through Nike’s website (note: not the app) as well as select skate shops for a palatable $95.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.