Nike Creates Custom Air Jordan 1s for Former TCU Quarterback Who Lost Both Feet
Nike has designed a custom pair of Air Jordan 1 sneakers for former TCU quarterback Bram Kohlhausen, marking a powerful step in the brand’s ongoing push toward inclusive design.
The project was led by Tobie Hatfield, Nike’s senior director of athlete innovation, whose career has been defined by creating footwear solutions for people with physical challenges. Hatfield is widely known for pioneering designs such as the hands-free FlyEase sneakers and the Nike Free line introduced in the early 2000s.
Kohlhausen is well remembered by college football fans, particularly for his role in TCU’s dramatic comeback victory over the Oregon Ducks at the 2016 Alamo Bowl, where he helped overturn a 31–0 deficit. However, his life took a drastic turn in 2023 when he fell approximately 75 feet from a helicopter during a hunting trip. He survived the accident but lost both of his feet, effectively ending his football career.
Determined to return to activities he still loved, Kohlhausen began working with Hatfield and the Nike innovation team to support his transition into golf. By studying his movement patterns and golf swing, Hatfield designed a bespoke version of the Air Jordan 1 tailored to Kohlhausen’s needs. The sneakers feature a reinforced toe structure, providing added stability and support, inspired by anti-crease accessories commonly used by sneaker enthusiasts.
To personalise the footwear, Kohlhausen collaborated with Miles Custom Studio, incorporating custom logos, numbers, and visual elements that reflect his personal journey and resilience. The project also carries a symbolic connection to Nike’s leadership, as current Nike CEO Elliott Hill is an alumnus of Texas Christian University.
Kohlhausen is set to serve as TCU’s honorary captain at the Alamo Bowl, where he will wear the custom Air Jordan 1s on the sidelines, bringing his story full circle at the venue where he once delivered one of the most memorable performances of his playing career.
