Converse updates their arsenal of Chuck Taylor All Star silhouettes, with the MA-1 "Nylon" pack. Fusing two iconic garms together, the result is a sneaker that is quintessentially American yet universally stylish.
How do you continue to stay on top of the ever-changing fashion landscape with a silhouette that’s remain largely unchanged for nearly 100 years? That’s something Converse has had to ask themselves time and time again, as they’ve refined, collaborated, and outfitted their legendary Chuck Taylor All star silhouette in seemingly every way imaginable.
From the early days of basketball courts to global tours at the world’s most prestigious music venues, professionals from all walks of life have worn a pair of Chucks at least once in their lifetime. At this point they’re as American as a pair of jeans, while remaining universal in their appeal.
How exactly they’ve managed to do it is anyone’s guess but even just a quick glance at the original sneaker reveals a wealth of information. They’re streamlined yet functional. They’re eye-catching without being ostentatious. They’re clean with enough small details to please even the most judgmental of sneakerheads. Most importantly though, they’re authentic. They’ve remained true to their origins while adapting to each era and that’s because they occupy a world of their own. A world where authenticity is king, and style and attitude are the king’s guard.
Expanding the king’s guard is Converse’s latest iteration of the Chuck, reinterpreted as an MA-1 bomber jacket. Appropriately part of the Military Zip collection, the MA-1 captures the essence of the silhouette while incorporating key details of the storied military jacket.
The Past is the Future
When you’ve been around as long as Converse reinvention isn’t always easy. Sometimes, a look to the past is all it takes to get inspiration for the future. That’s exactly what Converse did for the MA-1 Zip “Nylon" pack sneakers. The shoes, available in four colorways, take cues from classic Chuck Taylor All Stars and the fashion world’s most celebrated military garment - the MA-1.
Renowned for their functionality, bomber jackets, also known as bombardier jackets, were originally worn by pilots during World War I, incidentally the same time Converse let loose the original Chuck Taylor All Star on the world. Since its humble beginnings, the military garm has become a cultural icon on the streets of London, as well as a defining wardrobe choice on groundbreaking, influential TV shows like Breaking Bad.
Details, Details, Details
All of these historic and pop culture cues come together on the MA-1 collection. Even the four launch colorways - Olive Submarine, Night Navy, Black and Orange Bitters - are the most common bomber jacket colors. Details typical of the jacket, like a nylon body and elastic cuff, are reinterpreted along the sneaker in the form of a nylon upper and elastic ankle. Ingeniously done is the exposed tongue-zip housing a broader tongue, which reflects the MA-1’s instantly recognizable zipper, and the contrast-tone sock liner.
Availability
If you’re a fan of classic design, a proven track record and timeless style, you’ll want to know where you can get a pair. Luckily, the Converse MA-1 is now available in-store at your nearest Foot Locker and Foot Locker's online store. With both pieces’ origins dating back 100 years, it’s safe to say there’s 100 more to come.
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