Association with gangs The Nike Cortez is commonly worn by gangs in Los Angeles, especially MS-13. In January 2013, four Hispanic teenagers were targeted in a shooting in a Brentwood, California neighborhood after being asked why they were wearing Nike Cortez shoes. They were all injured.

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.

According to urban lore—which changes constantly, Barrett says—the Mexican gangs took on the Cortez as part of their uniform because of the chapter in Mexico's history that inspired the sneaker's name: the conquest of the Aztec empire by Hernan Cortés, the infamous Spanish conquistador.