The shoe in white with a blue Swoosh was worn by the Cripps and the shoe in black with a white Swoosh was worn by the Bloods. Because of the many incidents surrounding the sneakers, they were even banned from schools in the early 1990s. This was because the shoes were considered 'gang-related'.

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.

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.

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.