The Nike Cortez, introduced in 1972, was named after the Mexican capital and became a foundational Nike lifestyle model.
Bill Bowerman designed the shoe for Nike’s predecessor, Blue Ribbon Sports, with a lightweight construction intended for distance running. Its foam midsole and herringbone outsole aimed to provide cushioning and traction on road surfaces.
The name referenced the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and, more directly in branding, the name Mexico City had used for the 1968 Olympic Games. Nike released the shoe shortly after separating from Onitsuka Tiger, which had supplied earlier Blue Ribbon Sports models.
The Cortez later moved far beyond running. Its simple low-top shape and bold side stripe made it popular in Los Angeles street style, film, music, and hip-hop. It is distinct from the later Waffle Trainer and Tailwind, even though all belong to Nike’s early running history.