Kendrick Lamar and the Nike Cortez

Format is a series featuring the silhouettes and materials at the forefront of footwear discourse. This edition highlights Kendrick Lamar’s connection to the Nike Cortez. Created by Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman as an aerodynamic running shoe, the Cortez debuted in 1972, utilizing lightweight construction for long-distance performance. The model quickly gained a foothold in the following decades—particularly in Los Angeles—as West Coast hip-hop culture opted for Bowerman’s streamlined concept in place of NYC’s adoption of Air Force 1s. Born and raised in Compton, Kendrick Lamar has become a global champion of the style, making the silhouette part of his uniform with performances at Coachella and Bonnaroo. More than just a proponent of the design, the Grammy-winning artist has remixed the shape over the years through collaborations like the ‘Kenny 1’ and the sneaker-slipper ‘House Shoes’ hybrid. In the wake of Lamar’s explosive Halftime Show performance at Super Bowl LIX, get inspired and explore Nike Cortez sneakers from the past, present and future.