Nike significantly changed its logo in 1978, refining the iconic Swoosh and adding a new wordmark.
The evolution of Nike's logo began with its very inception, with the first major refinement occurring several years after its initial design.
The Original Swoosh: 1971
The journey of the Nike logo started in 1971 with Carolyn Davidson's creation. Her original design, known as the "Swoosh," was a simple, curved line that effectively conveyed movement and speed. This foundational design laid the groundwork for one of the most recognizable brand symbols in the world.
The 1978 Refinement and Wordmark Addition
A significant update to the Nike logo took place in 1978. This year marked a pivotal moment where the existing Swoosh symbol underwent a notable refinement.
- Bolder and Thicker Design: The original curved line was enhanced, becoming bolder and thicker, giving it a more prominent and stable appearance.
- Introduction of the Wordmark: This was also the first instance where a wordmark was formally integrated alongside the Swoosh. The wordmark featured Davidson's modified Futura Bold font, clearly displaying the "Nike" name.
This 1978 alteration was a crucial step in shaping the brand identity that consumers recognize today, combining the visual power of the Swoosh with the directness of the company name.
Nike Logo Evolution Timeline
| Year | Event | Description of Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 | Logo Creation | Original simple, curved-line "Swoosh" designed. |
| 1978 | First Refinement & Wordmark Addition | Swoosh became bolder and thicker; "Nike" wordmark added using modified Futura Bold font. |
