Nike Nike Cortez

The Nike Cortez is Nike's original running sneaker, which was designed by Olympic-class track coach and Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman back in 1972. Bowerman met his Nike co-founder Phil Knight at the University of Oregon, where Knight competed on the track and field team. The duo went on to found Blue Ribbon Sports which eventually became Nike as we know it today.

Coach Bill Bowerman felt athletes needed a comfortable and durable running shoe designed for distance training and road running, so crafted the Nike Cortez shoes to be lighter and more weatherproof than any other shoe.

After debuting his masterpiece at the 1972 summer Olympics, Bill Bowerman's Cortez instantly became an icon both on and off the track. The first silhouette to put the Swoosh in the spotlight, these athletic shoes have long outgrown their modest origins as a simple track trainer.

The classic Nike Cortez trainers feature a leather (sometimes suede) and synthetic leather construction for added durability. Foam midsoles provide lightweight cushioning, while rubber outsoles come with a herringbone pattern for supreme traction. The Classic Cortez in white red and blue was famously worn by Forrest Gump, cementing this as one of the legendary colourways.

From the mean streets of Los Angeles to the Olympic Games, the Nike Cortez has earned its place as the ultimate retro runner and is an essential must-have for athletes and sneakerheads alike. These vintage kicks give off that old school vibe so you can conquer the track and run the streets in classic throwback style!

Keep it locked in right here at The Sole Supplier for all the latest Nike Cortez releases alongside Air Max, Blazer and Air Force 1 drops and even releases from other brands such as Converse, New Balance and adidas.

If a pair of Nike Cortez are on your radar, make sure to check out our Nike Cortez size guide for the best tips on sizing, styling and much more!