It would be a hard-pressed chore to find someone who has not heard of, or does not own merchandise from, the giant company Nike¹. Almost everyone is familiar with the largest sportswear industry in the world. Nike's slogan is arguably one of the most universally recognizable, and well known. Many of the most popular athletes such as Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Vince Carter, and Lance Armstrong endorse Nike. These big names help publicize and add to the "cool factor" one has when wearing Nike products.
However, few people like to admit the reason they purchase Nike products. Common answers as to why they pick this particular brand will generally be similar to something such as they like the style of clothing, shoes, etc., that Nike provides. They may claim the style is what they find appealing, but if given a choice between two otherwise identical shirts, one with a swoosh logo, the other without; chances are they will pick the one with the logo. Most are reluctant to confess that their desire to be popular and accepted is the true reason for their choice in apparel. The drive of one's image is the main force in play.
If the sole purpose for any purchase is for image only, then the motivation is wrong. By definition, idolatry is excessive attachment or veneration to anything, including oneself. Shifting the focus to self instead of God leads to a form of idolatry. Left untreated, it will only continue to consume the individual, moving them farther and farther from the true God. This idolatry must be abolished.
Before concluding Nike products are fine as long as they are in moderation, understand this was a generalization. Nike is in its own category because of what they represent.
Do not be tempted into defending Ni ...