Converse Jack Purcell White

HIstory Behind the iconic shoeJack Purcell designed a canvas and rubber badminton sneaker for the B.F. Goodrich Company of Canada in 1935. He designed the shoe to provide more protection and support on badminton courts. In the 1970s, Converse purchased the trademark rights to Jack Purcell sneakers - which it still produces and sells today. The shoes, nicknamed Smilies, owing to the signature smile across the toe, are otherwise similar in appearance to Converse's Chuck Taylor All-Star. Converse Jack Purcells are still popular - but more for their vintage fashion appeal than for athletic use.