Nike Cortez Alternatives: The Best Running Shoes for Cortez Fans
While you technically *can* run in anything, here's why you won't want to run in Nike Cortez—and 5 purpose-built running alternatives that share the timeless and classic aesthetic.
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The Nike Cortez is a classic for a reason. Its sleek yet chunky profile can be dressed up or down, paired with everything from your favorite jeans to your Brooklyn wedding fit. Like the Adidas Stan Smith, Converse Chuck Taylors, New Balance 990 and Vans Old Skools, it keeps getting better with age. But can it keep up the pace on the roads? Let's find out.
First Off, Can You Run In Nike Cortez?
The short answer is: yes, but don't (if you have a choice). While you technically can run in any pair of sneakers including Nike Cortez, dedicated running shoe models, even the budget ones, are packed with modern features that keep you comfortable and lower your injury risk compared to regular sneakers. Purpose-built running shoes tend to have more cushioned midsoles, comfortable uppers that flex with your feet on each stride and tacky rubber outsoles to help you grip in rainy conditions.
The Nike Cortez, on the other hand, was designed in 1972 and has changed little since. The Cortez has a thin midsole designed for fashion rather than performance, which means your joints won't be very cushioned from impact when you land on the ground, and a leather upper, which won't be breathable as your feet heat up on a run. In short, there are much better options out there to lace up before running—and some that share design elements with the Cortez you know and love.
Best Running Shoe Alternatives to the Nike Cortez
We've rounded up five running shoes that speak the same language as the Cortez. Here are the best options that take the simple and timeless aesthetic to the world of performance running shoes.
1. Nike Pegasus 40 ($130): Best For Nike Loyalists
If your main priority is sticking with the Nike family, the Nike Pegasus 40 is your best bet for an everyday running shoe. It has a classic design, comfortable padded upper and simple ride. Like the Cortez is to your wardrobe, the Peg is to your training plan. Versatile and no-frills it can take on everything from short and sweet aerobic-base building runs to weekend marathon training long runs (and the jaunt to the coffee shop as well).
Pros of Nike Pegasus 40
- Versatile, simple, durable
- Won't break the bank
Cons of Nike Pegasus 40
- Not the most exciting ride
- Heavier than competitor daily trainers
Nike Pegasus 40
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2. Tracksmith Eliot Runner ($198): Best For Lovers of the Classic Aesthetic
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The Tracksmith Eliot Runner is a newer entry into the running market. Released in December 2022 as the first running shoe from the Boston-based DTC apparel brand, it has a classic prep aesthetic that pumps nostalgia through my veins. With the navy and white colorway, the blue sash on the light upper reminds me of the Nike Killshot, which is a spiritual sibling to the Cortez. The ride of the Eliot runner is firm but peppy, due to the Pebax foam midsole. It's also comfortable enough to wear around town and has become my go-to sneaker for travel and general dad duties.
Pros of Tracksmith Eliot Runner
- Designers' attention to detail is outstanding
- Performance is great for faster training days
Cons of Tracksmith Eliot Runner
- Can feel overly firm at slower paces
- $50+ more expensive than standard daily trainers
Tracksmith Eliot Runner
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3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus ($160): Best For Running in Comfort
If you've (very smartly) decided not to run in the Cortez because you want something more comfortable, there's no better option for that than the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25. It has a thick layer of FlyteFoam Blast Plus Eco cushioning, which is soft and plush yet responsive enough if you want to pick up the pace. There's also a gel unit in the heel to help soften the impact of heel striking and a moderate rocker in the forefoot to make toe-off easier and quicker.
Pros of ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25
- Extremely comfortable upper and cushioning
- Easy to run in due to rocker
Cons of ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25
- Can feel like a lot of shoe if you're not used to max cushion shoes
- Upper not the most breathable and can heat up in summer months
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25
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4. Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 ($225): For A Clean Look on Race Day
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is the closest kin to the Nike Cortez for a race day option. It has a classic look with its monotone mesh upper whose construction is reminiscent of a retro Starter basketball jersey. In terms of performance features, it has a full-length carbon-fiber plate and Saucony's PWRRUN PB foam, a beaded PEBA compound that's the perfect soft and bouncy companion to the rigid carbon plate. It also has a generous covering of XT-900 rubber as the outsole, which helps protect the foam and increase the shoe's longevity, an area that can be lacking for super shoes (looking down at you, Nike Vaporfly…).
Pros of Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
- Performs well at both daily and race paces due to stable platform
- Cheaper than other super shoes which are typically priced at $250+
Cons of Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
- Expensive at $225 compared to most shoes, even if cheaper than other race day options
- Doesn't feel as fast on foot vs the Vaporfly
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
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5. Nike Vaporfly Next% 3 ($250): For the Swoosh on Race Day
The Nike Vaporfly is the original carbon-plated super shoe. Now in its third iteration, the Vaporfly Next% 3 carries on a lineage of many a marathon win on the feet of elites. If you're loyal to Nike, then this is a great option that blends performance with style. Underfoot, the ZoomX foam feels soft, bouncy and responsive, combining with the carbon fiber FlyPlate to deliver a fast and floaty experience at your quickest paces. As hinted earlier, one note of caution here is that the outsole rubber is not the most protective, so the vulnerable foam is exposed to the ground in areas that are high-contact for some runners, like the heel. Save these for the days when you need speed.
Pros of Vaporfly Next% 3
- ZoomX foam is the best of both worlds: fast and cushioned
- Upper is breathable and light, ideal for race day
Cons of Vaporfly Next% 3
- Performance comes at a high price tag
- Not the most durable
Nike Vaporfly Next% 3
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Final Thoughts
No matter where you're at in your running journey, the right footwear can help you perform at your best during training and reach new heights on race day. There are tons of options out there that are more fashion-forward than what you think of when you picture walking into your mom's favorite local running shop where she picks out her walking shoes. Explore the wide world of performance running and hit the roads in comfort and style (and please, your joints beg you, not in Nike Cortez).
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