story

"I think this product enables you to choose your own adventure. For me, and I think for a lot of people, it means just shutting off from your day ..."

"And finding something that can create a calm within your mind. Stepping away from your day-to-day life".

"Hey, everybody. My name is Sean Labasan, and I'm the PLM for ACG Footwear. My name is David Nickless, Sr. Footwear Designer. I'm Carly Mikkelsen, Sr. Material Designer for ACG".

"This is our new shoe, the ACG Lowcate, for summer '22".

"When we look at consumers who are not traditionally represented and have not had loud voices or been highlighted in the outdoors, there are loads of barriers to access and participation".

"We don't want the product to also be a barrier for someone looking to start their relationship with the outdoors, and we feel like this shoe is that perfect initial hiking option for someone looking to get into it for the first time".

"We really worked to incorporate simple details, like how the lining wraps out over the tongue and how the lining wraps out over the collar, to make it look really soft and plush, so you can imagine yourself being in the shoe for a long time".

"I think in terms of materials, it was important to bring in technical aspects, but aesthetically familiar and welcoming. So, it was easy to put on and feel comfortable straight away".

"With a lot of outdoor products, the technical aspect brings a very masculine energy and vibe. I wanted to make sure that ..."

"There was a good balance of masculine and feminine. So, looking at this leno weave, it's technical in terms of breathability and durability, but the crafted element of this structure brings a more feminine nature to the product".

"Function informs aesthetic always for this. Function has to do with both pattern placement, material placement ..."

"Working really closely together to both find an aesthetic that we like, but layering in function first".

"We really see ACG as being front and centre in terms of helping support communities and those folks who have been marginalised or unheard in the outdoors previously".

"We want to be there and help these communities and move people forwards and be a voice for those who've never had it. No matter who you are, where you live, what your idea of adventure is, for some it might be summiting Mt. Hood".

"For others it might be just going for a walk in their local park. For others it may just be a day out in the city. The beautiful thing is that this thing is kind of useful all of those scenarios".

"We're not here to tell you what your adventure is, but we're here to provide solutions for what your day may look like and what you may encounter".

"Thanks, everybody. That was Behind the Design for the Nike ACG Lowcate, and we will see you on the trail".

Behind The Design

ACG Lowcate