Nike and The Last of the Mohicans

NFL fans will recognize this hard hitting Nike commercial featuring Shawne Merriman, linebacker for the San Diego Chargers. The background music features the theme song from the movie, The Last of the Mohicans, based on James Fenimore Cooper's novel of the same name. The movie stars Daniel Day-Lewis.

Showing its softer side, Nike announced today that it will introduce a running shoe specially designed for Native Americans. The Beaverton, Oregon based company introduced the shoe in an effort to promote physical fitness among this impoverished group.

The Air Native N7 is designed with a larger fit for the distinct foot shape of American Indians, and has a culturally specific look. The shoe will be provided free or at wholesale cost.

I can't imagine that a lack of running shoes is a significant factor in the epidemic level obesity rates among Native Americans, but I suppose the launch of the shoe can't hurt. Developing, designing and launching a shoe is not hassle free -- so hats of to Nike for the time, energy and money to do so.