Before releasing the highly anticipated LeBron XI later this year, Nike has proposed to release the 'Think Pink' (Kay Yow) colorway of the LeBron X in raising breast cancer awareness this year. The sneaker is named the Kay Yow in memory of Sandra Kay Yow, basketball head coach of the NC State Wolfpack women's basketball who passed away in 2009.
While Nike has followed a pink theme in breast cancer sneaker releases, this year's kicks feature hints of both metallic silver and black throughout. The kicks are in support of October's Breast Cancer awareness month alongside the Kay Yow foundation.
Whether or not you're a LeBron James or Miami Heat fan, this is one release we can all agree on.
Implications - Breast cancer awareness month has been a huge part of Nike Corp. whom have released a ‘Breast Cancer Awareness’ sneaker (in which certain funds are allocated toward a specific foundation, for example), for several years.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Breast Cancer Awareness
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop innovative products and services that raise awareness and support breast cancer research.
- Charity Footwear
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create footwear designs that are dedicated to raising funds for charitable organizations.
- Collaborative Partnerships
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Form partnerships between companies and nonprofit organizations to create socially impactful products or campaigns.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Sportswear and Athletic Shoes
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate social causes into sportswear and athletic shoe designs to attract socially conscious consumers.
- Fashion and Apparel
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate philanthropic elements into fashion and apparel products to appeal to socially responsible consumers.
- Nonprofit and Charitable Organizations
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore collaboration with businesses to create fundraising campaigns through the sale of branded merchandise.
