The Cortez Turns 40 ➔ Nike

Nike is taking it back to its roots with the Nike Cortez Classic. Set to return this spring in its original look from 40 years ago, the Cortez Leather features the larger Swoosh, heel tab, and vintage yellowed sole.

This running shoe first released 40 years ago presented what was then the most cutting edge footwear technology. 

When Nike Cortez was released in 1972 it was ground breaking with its soft well cushioned midsole, and lightweight upper. The first Nike Cortez was made in leather. but Bill Bowerman (Nike´s "Guru") took it even further by making a Nike Cortez with a upper of Nylon and Suede. Making it even more light weight.

But is it really the 40th birthday of Nike Cortez? To find out, we have to go back in Nike history to the late 60′s and we found mad ads featuring Nike Cortez!