Nike Honors Jackie Robinson with Special Cortez Release
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Nike celebrates the enduring legacy of baseball pioneer Jackie Robinson with a special edition Cortez, a tribute released in commemoration of Jackie Robinson Day, observed annually on April 15th. This "Jackie Robinson Day" Cortez features a clean white leather upper complemented by refined beige suede overlays at the heel, toebox, and eyelets.
A distinctive detail paying homage to the sport is the exposed red stitching on the heel, reminiscent of the lacing on a baseball.
Adding a touch of modern flair, the black leather Swoosh is outlined with reflective chrome, while prominent branding honors Robinson's iconic #42 jersey number. This significant number is featured on the chrome tongue tag, debossed on the heel stamps, and displayed on the insoles. Notably, the insole design showcases #42 in the varied styles of all Major League Baseball teams, underscoring its unique status as the only jersey number retired across the entire league in tribute to Robinson's profound impact.
The sneaker's design is grounded by a striped white midsole and a classic herringbone outsole, which ensures both style and traction. Crisp white laces accented with silver dubraes complete the look.
Jackie Robinson's courageous debut on April 15, 1947, marked a watershed moment in American history. On that day, he stepped onto the field as the first baseman for the Brooklyn Dodgers, shattering the color barrier that had segregated professional baseball for decades. This pivotal event transformed the sport and served as a significant catalyst in the broader Civil Rights Movement. Over his ten-year career in Major League Baseball, Robinson demonstrated exceptional athletic prowess and unwavering dignity in the face of persistent racism. His remarkable achievements on the field, coupled with his profound impact off the field, led to his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962. Jackie Robinson passed away in October 1972, leaving behind a legacy of courage, perseverance, and the dismantling of segregation in America's pastime.