Nike has led the shoe manufacturing industry for decades now. Nike has led this industry in sales for so long that they basically hold a monopoly over all other manufacturers. Because of this vast monopoly NIKE has made zillions of dollars. Some of these zillions of dollars have been used to create the most advanced research and development team in the World. R & D has led to breakthroughs in materials, material application, construction and performance of NIKE products. The overwhelming advantage Nike has in the R & D industry basically leaves all other rivals in the dust. For just one example of many if Nike has formulated and patented the only non stick non slip non wearing rubber that is used on their shoes no other company can use their specific rubber formula which in turn leaves all other company's with an inferior product. For anyone to assume their is no difference in the quality of equipment from manufacturer to manufacturer is naive. The Swoosh has allot more going for it than just popularity and looks they have research and science as well.
