While maintaining a relationship with Nike, the designer John Elliott also approached the brand Converse. The 2 partners present a collaboration based on one of the oldest silhouettes of the brand, the Skidgrip.
This sneaker was first marketed under the name CVO in 1910, being intended for tennis and basketball. In 1960, it was improved and renamed Skidgrip. For decades, it has been part of California’s skate and surf culture.
John Elliott, a native of the West Coast state, said of the model : « I discovered the Skidgrip like any other kid in California, skating at an early age. It’s an iconic silhouette in our surf and skate culture. As a skate shoe, it was instantly recognizable for the authenticity it contained. The Skidgrip is an important shoe in skate culture and in the representation of California ».
The famous designer was inspired by his childhood in California to bring his touch to this silhouette he loves. It’s available in 2 colorways, one in rust tones « Brown Rust » and the other in moss tones « Green Lichen ». As with the products of his eponymous brand that use unique textiles, John Elliott has implemented a similar process to design these shoes. He looked at the natural growth and decomposition of organic matter. Through these sneakers, he seeks to highlight a visual of imperfections. The shoes consist of a flocked canvas upper that sports an oxidized look. To counterbalance the look, the midsole is smooth and in white color. The John Elliott branding is emblazoned on the back of the foot, alongside the Converse badge. This co-branding also adorns the tongue tag and the off-white insole. The design is completed with silver metallic eyelets and the provision of 2 sets of round laces.
The John Elliott x Converse Skidgrip « Brown Rust » and « Green Lichen » will be released on August 19, 2021, on the designer’s website johnelliott.com and on converse.com, priced at 130$ each.
