Nike’s new EasyOn Backpack is designed to be universally accessible. (Nike)
Practically a decade after reimagining the way in which footwear are designed to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities, Nike is doing the identical factor for backpacks.
The athletic-wear firm is introducing a backpack that’s specced out to satisfy the wants of individuals with low dexterity and different disabilities.
Dubbed the EasyOn Backpack, the brand new design options finger loops, magnets and velcro-style fasteners. Particular clasps permit customers to regulate the straps to higher match wheelchair handlebars or an individual’s shoulders.
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“We heard from adaptive athletes that conventional backpacks had been troublesome to make use of with out full dexterity,” stated Brent Radewald, lead gear designer at Nike. “Zippers, pull tags, and closures might be difficult to grip, particularly for athletes with restricted hand mobility. Our aim was to make one thing that’s practical, simple to make use of and universally accessible.”
Nike officers stated they spent two years refining the backpack design, utilizing oven mitts, tongs and different kitchen utensils to check how simply it may open and shut. In addition they labored carefully with the Portland Pounders, a wheelchair rugby staff in Oregon, to check its performance.
Nike went by means of the same strategy of trial and error earlier than launching its FLYEASE footwear in 2015, which function a wrap-around zipper and a bigger opening to make it simpler to slip ft out and in.
The EasyOn Backpack was initially created for Paralympic athletes forward of the 2024 video games in Paris, however is now out there on Nike’s web site.
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