Nike faces backlash over “Walkers Tolerated” sign in Boston store

Nike has come under criticism after being accused of showing disrespect toward pedestrians following a promotional sign displayed ahead of a marathon in Boston.

According to Runner's World, a banner placed in a Nike store on Newbury Street read: “Runners Welcome. Walkers Tolerated.”

The sign, which has since been removed, was reportedly displayed ahead of the Boston Marathon and sparked criticism online for its allegedly discriminatory tone.

Nike said it intended to support runners but acknowledged that the messaging of one of the signs “missed the mark.” The company apologised and said it would do better in the future.

Many runners and social media users criticised the wording. One marathon participant created a counter-poster stating: “No matter the speed, forward is a pace.” Another runner with a spinal injury noted that they are required to take walking breaks and said the slogan excluding pedestrians was inappropriate.