Nike transforming Air sneakers into face shields for healthcare workers

Nike is pivoting its production to help protect frontline healthcare workers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Oregon-based company announced Tuesday that it will be transforming components of its footwear and apparel - including its signature Nike Air soles - into full-face shields and powered, air-purifying respirator lenses.

Nike's innovation, manufacturing, and product teams worked with Oregon Health & Science University on the equipment, with OHSU workers testing the prototypes and final products.

"When OHSU shared its current face shield, finding a way to reproduce the equipment with Nike-owned materials and manufacturing facilities became an immediate goal," Nike said. "The aim was not just a high-functioning shield, but also one that allowed a simple model of production."

The first shipment of Nike's face shields and PAPR lenses was delivered to OHSU on April 3.