Today, Converse Inc. introduces the all-new Slam Jam for Converse Jack Purcell Sneaker for Summer 2013, marking the company’s first collaboration with the Italian lifestyle brand. Slam Jam has been rooted in youth culture since 1989 and is widely recognized for its refined take on street style – a natural partner for the Converse First String Jack Purcell Johnny Ox, a sneaker that stirs anticipation of a summer of creative exploration.
“A nautical summer journey was the inspiration for these sneakers,” says Luca Benini, founder of Slam Jam. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Converse and be given the opportunity to rework the legendary Jack Purcell. We wanted to honor the original with unique details to give them a touch of the Slam Jam attitude.”
The Jack Purcell sneaker came on the scene a little over 75 years ago and quickly became a court and campus classic. What began as a humble badminton performance shoe has evolved into a modern style icon symbolizing confidence, wit and effortless style. For the Summer 2013 Slam Jam for Converse Jack Purcell collaboration, Slam Jam subtly updated the familiar silhouette, adding a simple, red snap-button closure. The sneaker can be removed in one easy motion without untying the laces, allowing the wearer to seamlessly go from dry land to sea.
The premium navy upper is finished in a water-repellent waffle canvas, adding extra durability to a material long associated with Converse’s DNA. Clean white rubber rands give the kicks a classic look and feel to complement summer wardrobes. The signature Jack Purcell toe-smile features the same bright red accent introduced on the metallic snap-button, canvas lining and bold outsole color pop. The seasonally appropriate expression “Summer Journey” is printed vertically on the right and left sneaker tongues, playing off the Italian brand’s initials and perfectly capturing the carefree spirit that inspired the collaboration.
Converse First String is a limited-edition collection that celebrates craftsmanship, authenticity and collaboration at the highest level. The Slam Jam for Converse Jack Purcell Sneaker will be available in limited quantities, beginning on May 31 at Slam Jam stores and select Converse First String retailers, including Patta in Amsterdam, Firmament in Berlin and Juice in Shanghai.
The sneakers will retail for a MSRP of €110 and will be available in unisex sizing 5-13.
About Converse
Converse Inc., based in N. Andover, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including lifestyle men’s, women’s and children’s footwear, apparel and accessories. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 78 company-owned retail locations in the U.S.
Source: Nike, Inc.
