Converse x Jenkem Jack Purcell Pro Ox Shoes
Jenkem Magazine offers a surface level approach to skateboard media and has remained authentic within its voice throughout ongoing changes within the industry. Based in New York City and founded by Ian Michna in 2011, Michna didn’t purposely set out to have his own online platform but began by simply expressing his opinions and frustrations on the web which led him to connecting with inspirational figures and likeminded skaters who were also seeking unique and quality content that differed to what was representing the industry at the time. The perfect balance of information, authenticity and a lighthearted attitude has worked in Michna’s favour and has led the site into a league of its own - acting as a valuable, open minded source of up to date information. From lighthearted articles discussing China’s latest skateboarding game show, to the celebration of LGBT skate collective Unity Press and insightful interviews with industry professionals such as Stefan Janoski and Keith Hufnagel, Jenkem embraces skateboarding as a whole and presents the rich diversity and community behind it, as well as making sure we all remember that there’s no need to take it too seriously.
Celebrated through Jenkem’s biggest event of the year hosted by Briana King in a new spot in lower Manhattan, the end of summer sees the launch of the collaborative Converse x Jenkem Jack Purcell Pro which suitably welcomes the unexpected as we head into autumn. Using their desire to scale things back in contrast to the ‘exuberant campaigns and an excessive use of materials commonly seen in footwear collaborations’, Jenkem’s team have designed a shoe and accompanying feature film that perfectly reflects their character and the community surrounding their online magazine.
Built with a super clean and minimal aesthetic, the shoe boasts the signature low-cut Jack Purcell tennis-inspired silhouette which is enhanced by smooth leather across the uppers with additional suede ollie patch overlays. From a distance the design may look simplistic but on closer inspection subtle details add an expressive touch, such as script embroidery stitched on top of either satin tongue which nods to the nonsensical phrase “Look Alive” which the Jenkem team have adopted to encourage people to do something mad or to stay out when they should probably go home. Silver metal eyelets secure black cotton laces, with two more added on the inner edge of the foot for ventilation. The edge of the ankle has a narrow satin border for a refined touch whilst the custom printed sockliner reflects the spontaneity of New York nightlife with a repeat design showing club flyers. Adding to the idea of wear during impromptu parties and nights out, a reflective 3M patch has been added along the back of the heel whilst embossed golden ‘Jenkem’ lettering on the outer right side of the heel adds a deluxe touch. Signature Jack Purcell details remain, including the characteristic black smile insert at the front of the toes, a layered white rubber outsole and herringbone tread pattern.
The Converse x Jenkem Jack Purcell Pro Ox Shoes are available online at Flatspot now.
Shop all Converse at Flatspot.
