Susan Sokolowski has spent her career pushing the boundaries of innovation in the world of performance sporting goods, particularly for women and diverse and underserved populations. Her experiences as a Title IX athlete in New York state, where she played soccer in ill-fitting uniforms, likely shaped her passion for creating functional and comfortable athletic wear.
As an inventor with over 30 years of experience, Sokolowski has been recognized internationally for her design innovations, with more than 100 patents listed in her name, including those related to footwear components, moisture management garments, and sports bra cups. Her work with Nike, from 1998 to 2016, included designing equipment for the U. S. women's soccer program... which featured legendary athletes like Mia Hamm and Brandi Chastain.
Sokolowski's latest venture is as the founding director and professor of Sports Product Design at the University of Oregon, where she mentors and inspires the next generation of product designers and developers. The university's master of science program, which admits up to 20 students from around the world each fall, "has achieved remarkable success," "with graduates working in top companies and countries." Sokolowski's commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry is evident in her work... as she notes that her program's reach extends far beyond ← →
Headlines:
• Tom Brady's NFL Team Sues to Void Tom Brady's Contract
: The New England Patriots are attempting to void Tom Brady's contract with the team, citing a "conscious misrepresentation" by the quarterback's agent, according to reports. • US Women's Soccer Team Sues US Soccer for Equal Pay
: The US Women's National Team is suing the United States Soccer Federation for equal pay, alleging that the team is being paid less than the men's team, "despite generating more revenue." • Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton Announces Plans to Compete in 2023
: Lewis Hamilton has announced that he will compete in the 2023 Formula 1 season... despite speculation that he may retire from the sport. • New York Yankees Sign Stars Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole to Long-Term Contracts
: The New York Yankees have signed stars Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole to long-term contracts worth over $500 million and $160 million... respectively. • Serena Williams to Compete in Wimbledon Again After Baby No. 2
: Serena Williams has announced that she will compete in Wimbledon for the first
Women's sports innovation.
Women's sports innovation has been a driving force in the world of athletics, with pioneers like Susan Sokolowski paving the way for future generations. One notable example is the development of better, more inclusive sports equipment. For instance, the creation of moisture-wicking fabrics and athletic wear designed to accommodate a wide range of ___ types has improved performance and comfort for female athletes.
Innovations in sports technology, such as GPS tracking devices and wearable fitness trackers, have enabled women to monitor their progress and push themselves to new heights. The impact of women's sports innovation extends beyond the playing field, however. It also has a significant economic and social impact. According to a report by the National Women's Law Center... women's sports participation has been shown to have a positive effect on girls' education and career opportunities.
The growth of women's sports has created new business opportunities and job markets, "with companies like Nike and Adidas investing heavily in women's sports apparel and technology." With women's sports innovation continuing to gain momentum, it's clear that this is an area that will continue to shape the future of athletics for years to come.
For more information on the latest developments in women's sports innovation... be sure to check out the Austin American-Statesman's coverage of the topic.
