1982 Nike Cortez | Size 4.5

The Nike Cortez was one of the first Nike shoes ever made and came out in 1972, the first year of Nike. Originally made for runners, the style transcends sports and has been featured in films such as Forrest Gump and Charlie's Angels. Forty-nine years later, the sneaker remains a brand favorite. The name Cortez resulted from a response to the Adidas style ‘Aztec,' in historical reference to Cortes conquering the Aztecs.

Offered in this lot is a 1982 Nike Cortez. Dressed in a predominantly white upper, the pair features a red Swoosh and accents on the heel and tongue label. Additional blue accents are present. Notably, the pair features the interior coding 820911MA, and the backside of the tongue label denotes that the pair was “Made in Brasil”. 

Nike, Inc., originally founded as Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, has evolved into a global powerhouse in the athletic footwear and apparel industry. Renamed Nike in 1971, the brand began releasing products in 1972. The company's early success was propelled by innovations like the waffle sole and endorsement deals with star athletes, such as Michael Jordan. Over the years, Nike expanded its product lines, ventured into digital technologies, and focused on sustainability and social responsibility, solidifying its status as a leader in the sports and fashion sectors. Today, Nike's iconic Swoosh logo and commitment to innovation and style continue to make it a dominant force in the global market, worn by athletes and individuals worldwide.