chuck taylor

The Converse All Star (without Chuck Taylor's signature) was first sold in 1917. In 1923, Chuck's signature was added. For those that feel that they must identify an original social "group" for the popularity of these shoes, I'd say it was SoCal surfers back in 1960. The Converse (we never called them "Chuck Taylors") fit right in with our Levi cords and Pendelton shirts. Another shoe that was popular then was the Jack Purcell tennis shoe (I think Converse bought them out and still makes them...they're the ones with the bulbous toe and smiley face stripe). I still have four pairs of Converse (2 low cut and two high tops) that I wear... it's got nothing to do with gansta rap, goth or posing. For me, it's a bit of nostalia and comfort. As low tech as they get, but they're still great for a 6 mile walk by the beach.