Episode 32: Mike Friton, Innovator Extraordinaire

The Nik Hawks Show

Mike Friton has been working as an innovator for over 30 years. Known for his shoe designs and his extensive work with Nike, he's also helped smaller companies like Soft Star Shoes design minimalist shoes that support a healthy foot.

Trained as an anthropologist, Mike focuses on bringing together many elements from the "fringes"; as a paper folder, weaver, and former competitive athlete (Junior National Champ and 1980 Olympic trials in the steeplechase.)

Mike shares what he's learned over the years, from observing Bill Bowerman's incredible attention to detail to the debate of health vs performance that is a part of every shoe to the state of prosthetics and how the fastest athletes in the world will soon be ones without legs.

Friton's world is fascinating, and I'm stoked to share this conversation with you!

Cheers,

Nik@PT