Nike brings back the Cortez this season

The streetwear icon.

Over the course of the last 40+ years, there are a handful of pairs that have truly stood the test of time. Perhaps the most important sneaker in Nike’s history, the Nike Cortez is one of them. The Cortez was first introduced in 1972 by Nike co-founder and track coach Bill Bowerman as a shoe meant for all types of terrain. Over time, the shoe has transformed itself from a mere running sneaker to the icon it is today. I’m sure a lot of you remember seeing it in Forrest Gump when Hanks ran through the USA in them. This season, Nike Sportswear brings back the icon in a boat load of colors and materials.

The Nike Cortez is now available at select Nike stores and stockist in both leather and classic nylon.