Converse First String Jack Purcell Johnny Weld Pack

Equal parts refined and rebellious, the Converse Jack Purcell sneaker is inspired by the man behind the iconic smile. In 1935, world-famous badminton champion and tennis pro Jack Purcell helped design his innovative and durable performance court shoe with the iconic smile on the toe cap. The Jack Purcell Johnny sneaker, named after the man himself, offers a traditional take on the classic Purcell style. Debuting in the 1930s as one of the original Jack Purcell silhouettes, the Johnny sneaker features exposed shank detailing on the outsole of the shoe. Pushing the classic yet mischievous lines that define Jack Purcell, the new Johnny Weld sneaker features Bemis weld detailing, a technique commonly used to seam-seal waterproof outerwear and outdoor tents. Applied here, it reinterprets the reissued silhouette for a modern take on the original. The shoe is lined with terry cloth, which harkens back to the sport performance shoes of the 1980s and offers a “retro-tech” feel. Pinstripe detailing on the rubber midsole offers a finishing touch alongside the signature Jack Purcell smile. Both a high top and low are now available through Bows & Arrows, amongst other finer stockists.

Photography: HYPEBEAST