On-Foot with the Nike Cortez x Union “Grey / Blue / Yellow”

Los Angeles-based streetwear store Union teams up with Nike once more for a handful of colourways on another icon. This time, the 1972 running revolutionary Nike Cortez takes a new and modern revamp for the limited-edition collab.

Pictured here is just one (Style Code DR1413-002) of the three colourways of the Nike Cortez x Union set for an exclusive launch this 2022.

At first glance, the shoe looked like it took inspiration from the Nike Dunk Scrap; which isn’t wrong because this Nike Cortez x Union boasts sustainable content as well. This Nike Cortez x Union “Grey / Blue / Yellow” rendition features a canvas base alternating in pink and yellow; with Grey smooth suede overlays. Blue suede panels cover the bottom eyestay, the Swoosh, and the heel panel.

Union LA’s logo appears on the heel tab; while the brand tag on the forefoot and the “Nike/Union” tongue add more signature details.

Aside from the multiple layers on the upper, the biggest update arrives on the sole. Crater Foam makes up the entire sole, with a raised sidewall right on the toe and heel for added support. Literal “craters” on the midsole allows the foam to compress and bounce right back up with even more cushioning.

Finishing the design is none other than the aggressive herringbone traction pattern that was popularised by the Cortez.

The Nike Cortez barely appeared on collabs these past few years; but this upcoming Nike x Union collab may indicate even more powerhouse partnerships in the future.

While there’s no confirmed release date, expect the Nike Cortez x Union “Grey” to arrive sometime this year as the Nike Dunk Low and upcoming Air Jordan 2 headline the collab.

With mixed reactions among the sneaker community, keep an eye out for more updates about the shoe by subscribing to the Captain Creps mailing list and following our social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.