Ban on the Nike Cortez Don't get high off your own supply." If you wore a Cortez around 1980, everyone knew you belonged to a gang. The police in Los Angeles could even identify gang members very easily because of the sneakers. Two colorways were the most popular with gangs.

Cortez's have high quality flat woven laces, make sure the weave is tight and even. Check that the lace tips are sealed in a tight plastic cap with no loose threads. Make sure there is no excess glue showing and no lifting along the join line between the EVA midsole and herringbone outsole.

Nike is re-releasing a classic silhouette for this spring. The Nike Cortez first launched in 1972 and returned in 2022 for its 50th anniversary. One of the most sought-after colorways, the “Forrest Gump,” was first released in 2018 and is now slated to return for 2024.

These shoes run small to fit. Both narrow and length. I had to order size 10.5 D even though I'm a 9.5W. Other than the sizing and width these shoes look awesome.