Nike Cortez
Before adopting its iconic name in 1972, Nike's foundational runner was nearly called the Tiger Cortez, TG-Mexico and Aztec until brand rivals contested its similarity.
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Settling on the Spanish conquistador-inspired Cortez, Nike founders Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman launched the shoe that paved their rise from Onitsuka Tiger distributors to footwear giants. Promoting the jogging movement of the ‘70s, popping up in the culturally iconic Forrest Gump and beloved by LA gang culture, the Cortez has had a hugely versatile appeal.
Even 50 years later, the original runner stays fresh with creative collabs, notably Kendrick Lamar's Kung Fu Kenny and Union LA editions, both of which celebrate the West Coast icon. With over 50 plus colourways on-site, the Cortez is worth a space in your collection!
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