Nate Benjamin: Cowboys Trainer Crafting Custom Cleats

Nate Benjamin, an athletic trainer for the Dallas Cowboys, has taken on a unique side project: crafting custom cleats. His creations, showcased during the NFL’s My Cause, My Cleats campaign, allow players to express their causes and identities. This year, several Cowboys players will feature Benjamin’s designs on game day.

Nate Benjamin’s Journey to Custom Cleats

Originally from upstate New York, Benjamin’s background was not in art. His passion for athletic training developed after an injury during his college football days at Hartwick College. Inspired by his training sessions, he decided to pursue a career as an athletic trainer.

After earning his bachelor’s degree in biology from Hartwick, he continued his education at the University of Delaware, obtaining a master’s in athletic training. A post-graduate certificate in musculoskeletal injury management followed at the University of Kentucky, where he worked while studying.

Getting into the NFL

In 2024, Benjamin joined the Cowboys as a graduate assistant athletic trainer. His position allowed him to connect with players and gather inspiration for his newfound hobby: customizing cleats. What began with a gifted pair of Nike cleats has turned into a thriving endeavor.

The Craft Behind the Cleats

Benjamin’s first custom project came after he discussed designs with Cowboys safety Donovan Wilson. He invested in quality supplies, including airbrushes and paint, leading to impressive results. His breakout moment happened when Wilson wore Benjamin’s cleats during the Cowboys’ season opener against the Eagles, marking the beginning of his reputation among players.

• Initial Investment: $400, later increasing to $1,500 as he expanded his equipment.
• Time Commitment: Benjamin works about 12 hours a day, dedicating 3-4 hours nightly to custom shoe creation.

Building Trust with Players

Following his initial successes, many Cowboys players sought Benjamin’s services for the My Cause, My Cleats campaign. Players such as Brandon Aubrey, KaVontae Turpin, Kaiir Elam, and Donovan Wilson all recognized the quality of Benjamin’s work. They chose his designs to represent important causes on the field.

Benjamin’s dedication to the craft and the relationships he built in the locker room have made him a trusted name for custom designs. He utilizes high-quality paints that bond effectively with cleat materials, ensuring durability and aesthetics.

A Personal Tribute

Among those requesting custom cleats was the late Marshawn Kneeland. Benjamin and Kneeland forged a strong bond, and when Kneeland expressed a desire for cleats supporting mental health, Benjamin felt a deep responsibility to honor him following his untimely passing.

Benjamin plans to showcase the cleats for Kneeland in collaboration with head coach Brian Schottenheimer, ensuring that Kneeland’s legacy is recognized.

Excitement for My Cause, My Cleats

This season, as the Cowboys face the Eagles, Benjamin’s work will be highlighted. Five players and several staff members will sport his custom designs, adding to the team’s spirit and commitment to meaningful causes.

Additionally, Benjamin will wear a pair dedicated to his late friend Ben Christman, further solidifying the emotional connection between art, sport, and remembrance. What started as a simple hobby has transformed into a meaningful pursuit that bridges personal passion with professional dedication.