The Nike Cortez is back, but did it ever leave? Better yet, did it ever leave Compton? The city that made it hot and owned the statement sneaker literally and figuratively has once again become the epicenter of said shoe thanks to local tributes and the signing of the local legend that is Kendrick Lamar.
Recently, the good folks at HighSnobiety spoke to four sneakerheads in Compton to get an actual insider’s perspective as to just how popular the Cortez is in Compton both with the OGs and the youth.
The findings are somewhat surprising and also somewhat expected. For the OGs, the shoe epitomized an era and still does. Although the Cortez went in and out of circulation and popularity in the city, it was always respected and still is. As for the youth, they have a clear understanding as to what the shoe means but mostly rock with the same street trends you’d see on the East Coast or anywhere in America — Jordans, Foamposites, True Religion jeans, you name it.
Generally speaking, the city loves Kendrick (how could you not?) and is for the move to Nike from Reebok. Just the same, all the interview subjects definitely respect K Dot taking care of himself and his team and are all about the move that’s best for him regardless of logo. Right on.
To read more about the Cortez, Compton and the people that are really out there and in tune with why this shoe means so much, head over to HighSnobiety for a great read.
