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There is rarely any time you search for the best sportswear shoes in the world and Nike doesn’t have a spot in the top ten list.
You probably know of a time but there is no doubt that Nike shows up again to tear down the list with one or more killer shoe styles.
Nike Cortez started in 1972 and it happens to be the first track shoe made by the brand.
This is not about the name, by the way. There are so many firsts for many brands. However, Nike does not only stay relevant but kept its first track shoes in vogue for as long as 50 years.
The Nike Cortez shoes are great track shoes and probably the lightest ones we have. They are also cheap. Hopefully, they are not the only great track shoes out there so everyone doesn’t have to wear the same thing.
Top Picks
- Most Supportive Trainers: Asics Gel Venture 8
- Best Heavy Running Shoes: Kundork Blade Tennis Shoes
- Best Expensive Running Shoes: Brooks Glycerin GTS 19
- Best Stylish Running Shoes: Puma Cell Pharos Trainers
Top 12 Alternatives Track Shoes To Nike Cortez
Onitsuka Tiger Serrano
Onitsuka Tiger is not a small brand when it comes to running shoes. These shoes look almost exactly like Nike Cortez, especially with the upper that looks like a balled fist.
It has all the special features you expect from your Nike Cortez so If you are looking to change your Nike Cortez shoes or, at least, get a second pair of running shoes from a different brand, Onitsuka Tiger Serrano is the right one for you.
They are lightweight. The weight of your shoes doesn’t have to hold you back when you run.
This is one of the best parts of Nike Cortez and Onitsuka Tiger Serrano does it just as well. They are comfortable, light, and snug.
Reviews
This feels like wearing a slip-on wearing shoe with a small heel, although very comfortable. The sole is narrow and doesn’t cover the arch so it’s not for people with flat feet.
The look is nice but some changes will be okay. I put in the laces from the outside but skip the last pair of eyelets and Tuck’ in the laces so I don’t have to tie them.
You can even cut off the rest of the laces so they don’t disturb your feet in your shoes. For comfort, I also removed the Onitsuka tag on the other side of the tongue.
You have to be careful doing that so you don’t get a rough result. The toe area of the shoes looks like they are made of nylon. Maybe they are but they don’t wrinkle. That’s good.
Sneakers have been part of my daily wear for a lifetime so whenever I choose new pairs, it’s important to consider the level of comfort. I got my first Onitsuka Tiger Serrano shoes.
They are not just unique with their look. They are also surprisingly comfortable. I was on my feet for a whole day but my feet didn’t seem to be tired.
I am quite rough with shoes so they seem like they crease easily. I ordered size 8½, being my usual size.
There was a wee bit of gap at the front but they comfortably hug my feet so I didn’t see that as a big deal. I kept the size anyway.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- Lightweight
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
Cons:
- Narrow fit
- Runs small by ½ size
Mehoto Air Running Sneakers
The name of the brand is not quite widely known but these sneakers do not need a big brand to sell. The comfort is beyond a comparable level.
It is one of the bestselling pairs of shoes on Amazon. It also takes a position as one of the top 50 chunky sneakers on Amazon.
Speaking of chunky, it looks exactly like Nike Cortez, especially with the upper that looks like a balled fist. They are much lighter than Nike Cortez shoes.
Reviews
These are perfect for work (my work though). I visit the homes of my patients for physical therapy. They are very flexible, lightweight, and super comfortable.
Well padded too. These seem a bit too light for my kind of running shoes. Asides from that, they are great. The price too.
This shoe is superb for the price tag. I seem to have a problem with the tongue on one pair. The left shoe seems to have a long tongue, or it’s incorrectly sewn. It’s a great product, other than that.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Extremely light
- Flexible
- Stylish
- Very affordable
- True to size
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
Cons:
- Low arch support
- Quality control issues
Josmo Gage Sneakers
This is another pair of running shoes from another “not so popular” brand but you won’t be disappointed.
It isn’t the best on this list though. You can tell the upper sole adopts the plumped look of Nike Cortez.
They require some time to break in but, after that, they get extremely comfortable. They are as light as Nike Cortez shoes. They are also very flexible to aid the movement of runners.
Reviews
The look is nice and they are holding up well. They are comfortable, though not the most comfortable shoes I’ve had. I think they are better for short periods.
After a few hours of wearing these, you may start to feel a bit uncomfortable. I haven’t worn them much so they probably need to be broken into. The look is nice, again.
I get compliments on them. They are super light. It feels sturdy when you walk. I should update this review after breaking into the shoes.
They are beautiful and comfortable. The break-in is also very fast.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Stylish
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
- True to size
Cons:
- Requires breaking in.
- Low Support.
Skechers Energy Afterburn Sneakers
If you are tired of spending money on your sneakers too often, this is for you. You probably have the money but don’t enjoy your walk to the store… or you’re just not enjoying your experience in online stores.
You should go for sneakers that last long enough for you to forget the experience you had the last time you made a purchase. Skechers Energy Afterburn Sneakers are similar to Nike Cortez in comfort and look.
When it comes to durability, these sneakers are superior. No pair of shoes will last a lifetime. That is quite true. If there is anything closest to a lifetime, it is how long these sneakers last.
Reviews
They fit well. True to size. They don’t use memory foam insoles and I like that. I wear mine virtually every day and they last an insanely long time. My current sneakers have been with me for over two years and they are still going great.
I once had a pair of Skechers’ sneakers, sometimes ago. I dare to say they are the most comfortable trainers I have ever put my legs in.
This made me order a second pair so I could switch and let one breathe while I use the other. I aggressively recommend these. I will be getting another pair. They are comfortable and stylish, and they are worth the pay.
Pros:
- Most Durable
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- Supportive
- Lightweight
- True to size
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
Cons:
- Requires breaking in
- Stiff sole.
Asics Gel Venture 8
Asics is growing its recognition among top brands in the sportswear industry. They seem to have special shoes designed for every sport.
The Asics Gel Venture 8 sneakers are superb running shoes. They are as chunky as Nike Cortez.
They are also very light and comfortable. They are not as cheap as Nike Cortez sneakers are but they have much more to offer.
Reviews
Do Asics shoes ever disappoint? This is my umpteenth purchase from the brand, and none of them has failed to impress me.
My feet are wide, so I’m usually scared to order online. These fit perfectly. They are also more supportive than Adidas and Nike shoes.
They are breathable and very durable, so they perform well at the gym. My only complaint is about the laces. They feel too thin and don’t seem like they will last.
I am assured that they will fit him perfectly whenever I order these for my man. True to size. He’s happy with the shoes. The support is good. The look is also great. No awkward designs.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- True to size
- Breathable
- Supportive
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
Cons:
- Thin laces
Adidas Nite Jogger Shoes
If there is one brand that dogs Nike so intently, it’s Adidas. To many people, it’s otherwise. Maybe it is. Adidas Nite Jogger Shoes are the shoes for you if you want a better version of the Nike Cortez.
It is quite true that these brands copy one another’s styles but there is a reason for Adidas and Nike to be at the top.
The secret can be noted in the likeness between Adidas Nite Jogger Shoes and Nike Cortez. They always make their copied style better than the original ones in virtually every possible way.
Reviews
These are nice sneakers. I love the design and detailing. Very comfortable. They are beautiful. I got them for $65 and they are worth the price.
I love every part of these shoes. I like that not many people have them. They are very comfortable. I will buy a second pair as soon as I find a different color.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- True to size
- Lightweight
- Stylish
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
Cons:
- Expensive
Brooks Ghost 14 Sneakers
This is one of the most expensive sneakers on this list but what part of these shoes is it not to like? Like one of the reviews says, Brooks always delivers.
After checking out these shoes, you will want to check out the brand. Tap the link below to open the product page.
Reviews
I walk and jog, almost every day, in Brooks Adrenaline shoes. They never disappoint and neither does this pair. These shoes are as comfortable as my Brooks Adrenaline.
They are durable and stylish too. The Brooks brand knows how to make wide shoes. I got a second pair of this model. I bet they would be hard to get in a year from now.
I’ve been a fan of Brooks’ running shoes for a while. Sometimes, I wear Asics and NB too. These are the most comfortable shoes I have worn in quite some time.
I can’t rate how good they are to run with since I’m not a runner. However, I walk in these, and they are great.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- Lightweight
- Supportive
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
Cons:
- Runs small by ½ size
Brooks Glycerin GTS 19
As mentioned earlier, Brooks shoes never disappoint. We could keep going on this list with Brooks shoes and we will have more sneakers that defeat Nike Cortez in everything.
You have to be ready to pay the cost but you surely get what you pay for. This pair is much better than the one above.
Reviews
They are great running shoes. Comfortable and true to size. They are also nice for regular workouts.
People have complained that I wear these shoes too much. I even started wearing these to work at some time.
They are very comfortable and maybe addictive. It seemed so hard to wear other shoes. I keep getting blisters and sore feet with other shoes. Never with these.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- Lightweight
- Great support
- Relieves foot Pain
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
- True to size
Cons:
- Expensive
Buy Brooks Glycerin GTS 19
Saucony Ride 14 Running Shoes
If you are familiar with sportswear shoes, you have probably heard of Saucony… or not. However, Saucony shoes are never left out in a list of track shoes.
These are quite expensive but, as you know, they turn out trustworthy. So that you know, Saucony Ride shoes are known to be of cheap quality. However, this is one of the best Saucony shoes in everything, including durability.
Reviews
My favorite running shoes have always been Saucony Ride. The Ride 14 sneakers are my best so far. I prefer darker colors.
They seem to stay clean for a much longer time. Most Saucony Ride shoes only last a few months. I hope these last longer.
They are comfortable, breathable, and light. There is enough cushioning. I was used to Brooks Ghost before I tried this out.
That’s the second brand you should try after this, Brooks Ghost. The toe box was designed well. You’ll know if you have wide feet like mine.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- True to size
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
- Soft-cushioning
Cons:
- Expensive
- Quality control issues
Buy Saucony Ride 14 Running Shoes
Puma Turin II
Puma is currently the third largest producer of sportswear shoes in the world. There is not much to say beyond that.
Unlike many top brands, Adidas, Nike, and Puma are great at adding durability to comfort and stylishness. This is not the best pair of shoes from Puma but this will make you check more Puma shoes out.
Reviews
I received a pair of Puma shoes recently, and they seem too snug. Though they are not too tight, so I didn’t return them.
I would have loved it if it had more room, though. These Puma Turin shoes are much better. The fit is perfect. The design is nice and stylish. I recommend these.
I ordered my usual size and a footpad for support. Turns out they were tight enough not to require footpads.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- True to size
- Lightweight
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
Cons:
- No wide sizes
- Low Support.
Kundork Blade Tennis Shoes
These shoes look extremely bright. They are as fashionable as they look and the comfort is out of this world. They say small brands offer much better quality.
You can’t tell how true that is till you try out this pair of sneakers. They are available in so many colors.
These are similar to Nike Cortez in so many ways but they are not as light. If you are a runner who hates extremely light running shoes, these are for you.
Reviews.
I love the colors. Very comfortable. The shoes don’t feel like running shoes. The sole feels hard but flexible.
They are super comfortable but I’m not sure how good they’ll be for running. I’ve had them for a month and they are still okay.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Flexible
- Stylish
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
- True to size
Cons:
- Heavy
Puma Cell Pharos Trainers
It is Puma again. This is a more stylish shoe than the pair mentioned earlier. With this, you are sure to get compliments. That is how beautiful they are.
Asides from the attractive looks, they are comfortable and more supportive than Nike Cortez.
So, if you are looking for the right shoes to walk in for an entire day, there is the right option waiting for you in the link below. It’s just one tap away.
Reviews
These are so comfortable. I wear them to the gym. I walk around in them. I am a barber, and I have to stand all day. These are perfect for the job.
You are probably wondering if these are good enough to be worth the price. These are not cheap but some expensive shoes are not as good as these are.
This review is after my second pair. It just hit me how beautiful these shoes look on the right jeans.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Very supportive
- Very stylish
- Perfect replacement for Nike Cortez
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Expensive
Conclusion
You have probably heard that Nike Cortez shoes are bad for your feet.
We don’t know how true that is, but these are the best options you can go for if you get a replacement. Grab them while they are still here.
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