Pope Leo XIV Goes Viral For Wearing Nike Shoes Under Papal Robes In Vatican Clip: ‘Best Thing To Happen To Nike In Years’

Pope Leo XIV has become an unexpected talking point online after photos showed him wearing Nike sneakers with his traditional white papal outfit. The images quickly spread across social media, with many users joking about the unusual mix of Vatican tradition and modern street style.

The viral moment came from visuals released as part of a Vatican documentary about the first American pope’s journey in Rome before his election. While many focused on the documentary itself, it was the Pope’s footwear that grabbed the internet’s attention.

Internet Notices Pope’s Shoes

In the clip, Pope Leo XIV was seen walking in his white cassock while wearing a pair of white Nike trainers underneath. Social media users quickly zoomed in on the sneakers and began

sharing memes, reactions and jokes online.

Many sneaker fans reportedly claimed the shoes looked like Nike Franchise Low trainers, a simple lifestyle model first introduced decades ago. Reports said the particular pair may no longer be available, though similar Nike styles are still sold today.

The contrast between formal papal clothing and casual sports shoes immediately became a trending topic online. Some users jokingly referred to the look as “Holy Drip,” while others called it one of the most unexpected fashion moments involving a pope.

Posts across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram were filled with humorous reactions. A user wrote, “Nike just got blessed.” Another joked, “You can take the kid out of Chicago, but not the Nike out of the kid.”

An account also reacted to the photos, writing, “Didn’t realise the Pope had drip like that.” Another person commented, “Who says a pope can’t have swag?”

A user joked, “Unironically the best thing to happen to Nike in years.”

Pope Leo Seen As Modern Figure

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, made history after becoming the first American pope. Originally from Chicago, he spent many years working in Peru before later taking major leadership roles within the Vatican. He also served as the global head of the Augustinian order for 12 years and is known to speak fluent Spanish and Italian.

Before becoming pope, he was reportedly leading the Vatican office responsible for vetting bishops. Since his election, many observers have described him as approachable and modern in his style and public image.

The sneaker moment added to that perception online, with many people saying it made him appear more relatable to younger generations. Some users also felt the reaction reflected how recent popes have tried to appear closer to ordinary people instead of maintaining a distant image.

The photos resurfaced around the first anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s election following the death of Pope Francis. The documentary, titled Leone a Roma, has been aired through Vatican News and traces his journey before becoming pope.