CONVERSE AND UNDEFEATED LAUNCH SUMMER 2012

CONVERSE AND UNDEFEATED LAUNCH SUMMER 2012
UNDEFEATED FOR CONVERSE JACK PURCELL COLLECTION

CONVERSE Inc. announces the launch of the all-new Undefeated for Converse Jack Purcell Collection for Summer 2012 – the first time Undefeated has collaborated with Converse on the Jack Purcell shoe. Specialty retailer Undefeated is globally recognized for its sport inspired identity and attitude and worked closely with Converse to create a Converse First String, limited-edition summertime Jack Purcell collection.

“We are excited to collaborate with Undefeated for the first time on the Jack Purcell shoe. The Jack Purcell began as a humble badminton shoe, yet it has evolved to symbolize confidence, wit and style— likewise, Undefeated is rooted in sport and has come to represent its own brand of smart, refined street style that is recognized globally,” says Magnus Wedhammar, General Manager Footwear, Converse.

An American classic, the Jack Purcell shoe came on the scene a little over 75 years-ago and quickly became a court and campus classic. Soon after, young rebels of 1950s Hollywood cemented the shoe as an icon of style. For the Summer 2012 Undefeated for Converse Jack Purcell collection, Undefeated made subtle design changes to the iconic shoe, beginning with the addition of stylishly simple red and navy racing stripes to their rubber rands to give the shoes a sporty, classic Converse look and feel. Undefeated leaves the signature Jack Purcell toe-smile intact and adds summery terrycloth to the lining and foot beds, and a subtle Undefeated branded heel pull-tab to the heel. The collection features three colors of the iconic silhouette with understated styling and just the right amount of Undefeated attitude.

“Converse’s heritage is the inspiration for these shoes,” says James Bond and Eddie Cruz, co-founders of Undefeated. “We were excited to work with Converse again and the Jack Purcell model for the first time. We wanted to honor the original with minimal details to give them just a touch of Undefeated attitude.”

Converse First String is a limited-edition collection that celebrates craftsmanship, authenticity and collaboration at the highest level. The Undefeated for Converse Jack Purcell collection will be available in limited quantities, beginning on May 25, 2012 at Undefeated stores and select Converse First String retailers globally. The collection offerings include the shoe in black, white or red canvas uppers, with the red version available exclusively from Footpatrol London.