Celebrating 45 years on the track and on the street, Nike Cortez refreshes the iconic runner for the next generation. Durable synthetic leather is overlaid at the toe and heel for support and one-of-a-kind style.
Over the past 20 years, the Nike Cortez has been redesigned numerous times. Early on, the shoe set the standard for running shoes. Co-founder and Olympic-class track trainer Bill Bowerman was set on designing a running shoe that provided both comfort and durability.
The foam is measured to be generously placed in more significant parts of the shoe with intentions of offering comfort, absorbing road shock and proving other health benefits. The combination of these two soles reduces leg fatigue, raises the heel of the shoe to reduce Achilles tendon strains and provides maximum comfort. One of the world’s leading marathoners described the Nike Cortez as “the most comfortable shoe ever.”
The shoe is given a simple outer design that consists of the Nike Swoosh symbol across the sides of the shoe and a streak across the lower portion of the outer sole. Leather was the first material used to construct the shoe, however, Bowerman soon realized that he could reduce the weight of the shoe if he changed the material of the shoe’s upper to nylon and suede.
In 2009, a new design of the Nike Cortez – the Cortez Fly Motion – was released. The Cortez Fly Motion instituted flywire: a lightweight thread made of Vectran placed in the upper of the shoe, which further reduced the weight of the shoe.
Benefits
- Synthetic leather with classic overlays is durable and easy to clean.
- Full-length foam provides low-profile cushioning.
- Rubber sole with herringbone pattern creates plenty of traction.
