Jake Dering, 8

Nike Free Run 5.0

After enduring 19 surgeries to treat a rare genetic condition called Otopalatodigital Syndrome type II, Jake has earned the right to strut a little. Jake is known as a smooth operator on the dance floor and his unique version of the Nike Free Run 5.0 is ideal for fresh moves. Lenticular materials throughout the shoe give it the appearance of constantly being in motion—just like Jake. He offers some words of advice on the sockliners: one side reads Be Brave, while the other reads Never Give Up. And around the ankle collar, Jake’s can-do attitude is summed up with the simple phrase, I wasn’t made to fit in, I was made to stand out. Even the name of the shoe is significant to Jake. “I just really want to be free of all this stuff,” he explained. “No halo, no cast, no crutches.” Next May, another surgery is planned to add 3.5 inches to his right leg. Until then, he’ll continue rocking his own pair of custom Free Jakes.