Founded by Chitose Abe in 1999, the futuristic-inspired Japanese brand Sacai takes on a unique hybrid aesthetic. The brand focuses on re-evaluating typical silhouettes and contrasting textures which are presented on a selection of apparel, accessories, footwear, and more. Sacai is well-versed in incorporating sportswear and couture techniques into one and has been incredibly influential in breaking down barriers between casual and formal aesthetics in fashion.

Sacai has collaborated with an iconic array of brands, with the most influential being an ongoing collaboration with Nike that first began in 2015. NikeLab needed help with its spring women’s apparel and footwear line, and enlisted Chitose Abe’s Japanese-based label to help transform the performance apparel and footwear into something more functional and elevated. This capsule included not only apparel but its centerpiece—the Nike x Sacai Air Max 90. A Nike x Sacai Dunk High followed shortly after. After a three-year collaboration hiatus, Nike and Sacai joined back together with a commitment towards reinvention, reinterpretation, and innovation. These intentions began with the Nike x Sacai LD Waffle and Nike x Sacai Blazer Mid, making their debut in 2019. All of these collaborative silhouettes not only embraced Nike’s heritage but Sacai’s avant-garde spirit.

They all were and continue to be inspired by the Japanese tradition of ‘Kintsugi,’ which is the ‘Wabi-Sabi’ art of careful repair, which focuses on embracing imperfections. Each Nike x Sacai silhouette is essentially a wearable piece of art, taking on a futuristic touch along with luxurious components. Since 2019, other collaborative Nike x Sacai silhouettes have surfaced, primarily the Nike x Sacai Blazer Low and Nike x Sacai Vaporwaffle. While Sacai is rooted in collaboration, Nike fosters a culture of innovation. These two concepts resulted in this notable and successful pairing, which continues with a new arrival—the Nike x Sacai Zoom Cortez ‘Iron Grey.’ Releasing on Tuesday, December 13th, the first collaborative silhouette presented on a Sacai was released back in August 2022, with this only being the second iteration of that specific silhouette. This intricate and layered silhouette stays true to its original design language, but Sacai isn’t holding back when it comes to its ‘doubled-up’ aesthetic seen throughout several components of the sneaker.

Double-stacked nylon panels provide an eye-catching feel, as seen in the tongues, collars, and collaborative tags. Originally crafted by Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman back in the '70s, the Nike Cortez still stays true to its original sleek intention. The two-toned suede panels are layered at the heels, with additional trimmings spreading to the toe boxes and throat of the design. Leather labels also receive the same piled-inspired branding. The Swooshes overlap, while the double laces add an additional dimension to the overall look. The entirety of the silhouette sits upon a split midsole, which is accented by an extended heel piece. The Zoom Air bubble pucks at the midsole make an appearance, offering optimal comfort with each step. while the carved-like rubber outsole supports the remainder of the futuristic yet contemporary-inspired silhouette.

FEATURE Release - Tuesday, December 13th

Nike x Sacai Zoom Cortez ‘Iron Grey’ - DQ0581-001

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