Leo Chang - designer

The great Forest Gump once said, “I’m not a smart man, but I know what love is.” At an early age, Leo knew he wasn’t gonna get straight A’s, but maybe if he focused on what he loved most, maybe he could make something of it. Leo’s passion for art led him to the Rhode Island School of Design. His studies in Industrial Design helped him reignited his middle school dream of designing shoes for Nike. After a summer internship at the Swoosh —that blew his mind— Leo knew this was a love he needed to pursue upon graduating.

His dream became a reality in 2001, when he began his journey at Nike. During his first 5 years there, he designed a broad range of running shoes. After which, Leo pursued his other dream of designing basketball shoes. His 12 years designing hoop shoes and directing the design team, was every sneaker nerd’s dream come true; working with the world’s most legendary basketball players. Leo’s path has now come full circle. Returning to Nike Running, as the Footwear Design Director in Innovation, creating concepts for the future.

While Leo loved playing sports, like running and basketball, it often fell in the category of “needs improvement” due to his focus on his creative aspirations. His tireless “all or nothing” approach got him to where he is in his design career, but Leo eventually needed a more sustainable balance in life. Bringing back the activity of running into his daily regime has played a pivotal role in shaping Leo’s mindset, wellness and creativity.