Today, Converse Inc. announces their first collaboration with modern British luxury brand Hancock Vulcanised Articles, bringing rubber-bonded, water-repellant materials to the classic Jack Purcell mid-top sneaker. The rubberized upper brings the label’s pioneering, handmade outerwear techniques to footwear, creating a modern sneaker that’s clean and durable, encapsulating a rich heritage of craftsmanship.
The Converse Jack Purcell x Hancock sneaker is released in three fresh, seasonal colors – indigo, summer yellow and mastic gray – all featuring a soft lining with a unique phytology print of the Siphona Elastica plant, which is used to manufacture rubber. A tasteful Hancock Vulcanised Articles logo is stitched on the heel tab of each sneaker, and seams are bonded with the same precision that is the hallmark of Hancock outerwear. The design is capped with the signature Jack Purcell smile.
“There is no sneaker out there that could compliment our style better than the Converse Jack Purcell,” says Gary Bott, Co-Founder of Hancock Vulcanised Articles. “We really wanted to create something special that reflects the modern, forward-thinking creative outlook of both brands, but with a nod to tradition, craftsmanship and functionality.”
Hancock Vulcanised Articles (HVA) is a modern luxury lifestyle label that offers contemporary rubber bonded outerwear, crafted using original techniques that date back the 19th century. All pieces are cut with shears, and seams are manually bonded with a secret traditional glue recipe. Founded in 2012 by Daniel Dunko and Gary Bott, the brand draws inspiration from Thomas Hancock; the British inventor who sparked a rubber revolution and pioneered waterproofing techniques for fabrics that are still used to this day. All articles are handmade by two generations of expert coat makers at their factory in Scotland.
Converse First String is a limited-edition collection that celebrates craftsmanship, authenticity and collaboration at the highest level. The Converse Jack Purcell x Hancock sneaker will be available in limited quantities beginning March 14 at Converse stores in San Francisco and New York City, as well as select Converse First String retailers across Europe and Asia. The sneakers will retail for a MSRP of $150 and will be available in men’s sizing from US 8-12.
Spring 14 Jack Purcell x Hancock VA Hi Converse
