The 43-Year-Old Nike Cortez Returns in a Classic Colorway

Nike is bringing back the 43 year old Cortez in a Classic colorway.

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Image via Complex Original
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Every sneaker has its own particular culture surrounding it. Shoes have their stereotypes, and few have as much of a cultural identity as the Nike Cortez.

Originally created as a track shoe in 1972, with the guidance of Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman, the Cortez rose in popularity for its sports application before being adopted for its style as an alternative to the Air Force 1.

43 years later, Nike is set to relaunch the Cortez in a patriotic coloway, one of the originals. Featuring an upper of bright white leather, the broad, retro swoosh pops in Varsity Red, mirroring the heel. Varsity Blue streaks across the midsole, and an unfinished foam and nylon tongue grounds the retro look.

The Nike Classic Cortez is set to launch Saturday February 28, 10:00 EST for $100 – a price low enough that it seems as retro as the model itself.

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[via Nike]

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