The return of the iconic Nike Cortez sneaker

The return of the iconic Nike Cortez sneaker
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by Angelo Ruggeri

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NikeLab presents the new NikeLab Cortez ’72, a faithful reissue of the original sneaker model designed by Bill Bowerman in 1972.

In the late ’40s, the visionary designer became the coach of a university track team, a role that led him to create footwear prototypes. In 1972, through the launch of the Nike Cortez, Bowerman realized his dream: creating a shoe that could defy the conventions of sport while maintaining Nike’s goals related to enhancing athletic effort. The most important innovation of this model is a cushioning system, consisting of a layer of rigid spongy blue rubber positioned between layers of softer rubber, able to provide greater impact cushioning at the heel. The shape follows the functionality of the shoe, turning technology into an aesthetic element.

Available for purchase from September 24th on nike.com/nikelab and in all NikeLab stores.