Nike’s new EasyOn Backpack is designed to be universally accessible. (Nike)
Nearly a decade after reimagining the way shoes are designed to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, Nike is doing the same thing for backpacks.
The athletic-wear company is introducing a backpack that’s specced out to meet the needs of people with low dexterity and other disabilities.
Dubbed the EasyOn Backpack, the new design features finger loops, magnets and velcro-style fasteners. Special clasps allow users to adjust the straps to better fit wheelchair handlebars or a person’s shoulders.
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“We heard from adaptive athletes that traditional backpacks were difficult to use without full dexterity,” said Brent Radewald, lead equipment designer at Nike. “Zippers, pull tags, and closures can be challenging to grip, especially for athletes with limited hand mobility. Our goal was to make something that’s functional, easy to use and universally accessible.”
Nike officials said they spent two years refining the backpack design, using oven mitts, tongs and other kitchen utensils to test how easily it could open and close. They also worked closely with the Portland Pounders, a wheelchair rugby team in Oregon, to test its functionality.
Nike went through a similar process of trial and error before launching its FLYEASE shoes in 2015, which feature a wrap-around zipper and a larger opening to make it easier to slide feet in and out.
The EasyOn Backpack was originally created for Paralympic athletes ahead of the 2024 games in Paris, but is now available on Nike’s website.
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