Former Nike Designer Joins Kizik to Transform the Footwear Industry

Andreas Harlow
Andreas Harlow

Kizik, the brand revolutionizing the footwear industry with hands-free designs, has announced a major addition to its team: Andreas Harlow, a former Nike executive with over 20 years in footwear design, has been appointed as the senior vice president of design. Known for his influential work as VP and global footwear creative director at Nike, Harlow brings a wealth of experience and a creative edge to Kizik as it prepares for an ambitious growth phase.

Harlow’s background spans both high-performance and lifestyle footwear, making him a perfect fit for Kizik’s mission to create shoes that blend functionality with style. “With Andreas on board, we are strengthening Kizik’s innovative strength,” says Monte Deere, CEO of Kizik, emphasizing the impact Harlow’s expertise will bring to the brand. His appointment signals Kizik’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of footwear design by combining innovative technology with aesthetic appeal.

In his new role, Harlow will lead the design team to further enhance Kizik’s product lines and explore new categories in the hands-free footwear market. With his history of innovation at Nike, where he shaped some of the brand’s most iconic styles, Harlow aims to channel his creativity into Kizik’s mission of redefining the footwear experience. Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Harlow stated, “Kizik already has impressive innovations under its belt, and I look forward to working together on the next step in transforming the footwear industry.”

This high-profile appointment comes at a critical time for Kizik. The brand, already known for its unique hands-free technology, has been steadily expanding its reach and reputation. 2024 is set to be a landmark year for the company, with plans to open five new stores and strengthen its retail partnerships. Recent collaborations with Nordstrom and Amazon have further amplified Kizik’s presence, positioning it as a frontrunner in the growing hands-free footwear sector.

Kizik’s unique product line is designed to meet the needs of modern consumers seeking convenience without sacrificing style. By stepping into their shoes without using their hands, Kizik customers enjoy a seamless and innovative experience, setting the brand apart in an increasingly competitive market. With Harlow leading the design vision, the brand is poised to introduce fresh concepts that could revolutionize everyday footwear.

Beyond expanding its retail footprint, Kizik aims to broaden its product offerings and reach a wider audience. Harlow’s expertise in both performance-driven and lifestyle footwear will be instrumental in achieving these goals. His history of pioneering designs at Nike suggests that Kizik’s upcoming releases may push the envelope even further, blending cutting-edge design with practical innovation.

As Kizik continues its growth trajectory, Harlow’s arrival marks a new chapter for the brand. With a seasoned industry leader now at the design helm, Kizik’s next wave of products could solidify its position as a leader in hands-free footwear, setting new standards for convenience, style, and functionality in the market.

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