"Shark Skin" Bottoms

Test Prototype   Artificial Shark Skin outsoles   No inside shoe markings

As I remember, this was a prototype of an artificial shark skin outsole. I tried them out on an artificial track surface. The idea was to get the needed traction without using the conventional metal spikes.

Free Cross Trainer

Free Cross Train (a relatively early version)   Made in Taiwan

Cross Trainers were designed to be a single workout shoe that you could put in a suitcase. You could run in them, work out in the gym, and probably play basketball or tennis.

I didn't Cross Train so they got very little usage. I wasn't a fan of the strap for the activity that I did.

Nike Sandals

A pair of sandals that I didn't wear much

I don't remember much about these. Perhaps there is no story.

Zoom Air Prototype

Zoom Air   Sample #4010-5   Size 9   Made in Taiwan

I've had these prototype shoes in my closet for years and the outsoles show some wear. So I obviously wear tested them. But I can't remember any of the details.

Nike Bowling shoe

Sample Women's Bowling Shoe   Made in Taiwan   About 1979

Nike was briefly in the bowling business. I sampled a men's and women's bowling shoe in Taiwan which never went into production.

Mrs. Bence shoe

Made in Korea   Size 7.5    About 1981

One of the factories in Korea made a surprise personalized pair of shoes for Mary.  I don't think they knew her first name so this is what she got.

Mary Jacko Roadrunners Powder Blue/Navy Blue

Women's Cortez   Made in Taiwan   About 1979

A factory in Taiwan made a pair of shoes with Mary's maiden name on the back tab (JACKO). Mary never wore them and the sample stickers are still on the shoes.

Farrah Fawcett shoe

Farrah Fawcett shoe   Made in Exeter, New Hampshire

Farrah Fawcett wore these shoes but I haven't found the picture ... yet.

1974 Seattle Indoor Mile

1974 Seattle Indoor Meet   Mile   2nd Place   4:04.1

I was the defending Seattle Indoor champion in the 1000 yards.  But Dellinger put me in the mile.