Aaron Cooper on Designing Nikes for Scottie Pippen and Charles Barkley | The Complex Sneakers Show

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Published 2024-04-26
Aaron Cooper is a Nike design veteran who worked on genre-defining basketball sneakers for athletes like Charles Barkley, Kevin Garnett, LeBron James, and Scottie Pippen. Cooper started out as Nike’s first design intern in the 90s, ascending from there to influence classics like the Nike Free, Air More Uptempo, and Air Max Plus. Cooper talks about his long resume, his design philosophy, and what he believes is the future of the industry. He also gives updates on his current work with EQLZ and Better Guards. At the top of the episode, Joe La Puma, Brendan Dunne, and Matt Welty anticipate next year’s “Bred” Air Jordan 1 and break their moratorium on the Air Max Dn.

Chapters:
0:00 - 1:55: Intros
1:55 - 3:08: Joe’s High School Hall of Fame Induction
3:08 - 8:09: Topics We’ll Cover
8:10 - 10:15: Yachty’s Nod To Nigo
12:04 - 15:53: Air Max DN Latest Updates
15:53 - 18:09: Pringles x Crocs
18:09 - 22:08: New Balance Loafers
22:08 - 23:20: Introducing Our Guest, Aaron Cooper
23:20 - 27:55: Sneaker Cam
27:55 - 32:15: How Aaron Started At Nike
32:15 - 37:30: Working With Nike’s Top Athletes
37:30 - 43:35: Scottie Pippen And The More Uptempo
43:35 - 51:11: Shoes Pivoting From One Athlete To Another
51:11 - 57:12: Data Influencing Design
57:12 - 1:03:40: Showing The EQLZ Sneaker And Innovation
1:03:40 - 1:08:45: Better Guards Brace Demonstration
1:08:45- 1:12:07: Instagram Discussion
1:12:08 - 1:17:24: Thoughts On Anthony Edwards’ Signature Shoe
1:17:24 - 1:20:45: Kevin Garnett Story And Outro


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COMPLEX is a community of creators and curators, armed with the Internet, committed to surfacing and sharing the voices and conversations that define our new America. Our videos exemplify convergence culture, exploring topics that include music, sneakers, style, sports, and pop culture through original shows and Complex News segments. Featuring your favorite celebrities, authoritative commentary, and a unique voice, our videos make culture pop.

All Comments (21)
  • @Complex
    What's the best sneaker Aaron Cooper ever designed?
  • @paprikafinesser
    One of the best episodes of this show ! Mr Cooper got me so hooked, I didn't feel the time passing. So much gems and stories
  • @ryzer0881
    One of the best episodes yet. A true legend in sneaker design!
  • @josea.9116
    This was one of the best episodes so far this season
  • @kenkwan7792
    KG & Coop on Sneaker Shopping has to happen!
  • @rchrdp305
    So glad to have Aaron on the podcast finally. Thanks complex for making it happen.
  • @Dadegriffey
    Those basketball shoes he brought out are actually fire af
  • @teeznuhtz
    What an inspiring guy thank you for bringing him on the show
  • @SaakshiJC
    What an insightful conversation, Complex! Architect turned designer from India here🇮🇳 In a time where much of sneaker culture seems to find it’s epicentre in the untouchables of the world, it’s so refreshing to hear Aaron talk about how these people are in fact, one OF a million, who represent a much broader population. Love how he works with people from all walks of life the same way.. In AC’s own words, thoughtful design doesn't have to be exclusive—it can and should be accessible to everyone! Would love a part 2!! 🙌
  • @MaxMilly_85
    Aaron Cooper one of the goats. Love to see it
  • @rayeski
    As an industrial designer with 20 years of experience it was inspiring to hear Aaron’s stories and design philosophies. Hope you have him back again. Also please do that Sneaker Shopping with him and Kevin Garnett!
  • It was obvious the 3 guys don't have kids when Aaron asked that question. Seeing them inspect that shoe to gauge its cultural or technical significance 😂
  • Hello guys, I’m from little town called Garut in Indonesia, I really enjoyed this episode. I am very excited to see the next episode featuring Aaron Cooper again. The man is a sneaker historian.
  • @Yesyou_
    How do you guys make a whole segment about the Jordan 1 black and red 2025 and don’t even mention it will be an 85 High cut
  • @FRUT111
    Usually better episodes when just the three of you, not this time, very nice person, very true
  • @gabemarquez4634
    Another good one and I hope we do get to see him on another episode as well as reuniting with KG. Well done, guys!
  • @Andrewpottvlog
    You guys always bring the fire interviews .I'm always so Locked in when I'm watching your shows .