Converse Shoes 2012 Spring/Summer Collection

Check out Converse's spring/summer 2012 collection!

With winter behind us, it's time to put away those snowshoes and rain boots and bring out the sneakers and sandals instead! Youthink recently had the opportunity to check out Converse's new spring and summer collection. We caught up with Converse's Vancouver rep Chris White let us in on the newest collaborations and trend forecasts bound to please Purcell and Chuck fans alike.

Jack Purcell Low Profile Slip

If you like to be on trend, the Jack Purcell product is sure to kickstart your summer. “Every magazine and blog you're looking at is talking about the whole nautical theme for spring,” says White. With its salt-wash material, this low profile slip-on is a must-have for the warmer weather.

John Varvatos

For those looking for affordable luxury, John Varvatos' designs offer an answer for a broad range of consumers. Priced at approximately $90, the John Varvatos styles owe their appealing premium look to their worn-out leather and thinner sole. Despite the fresh new take, the Varvatos line is still immediately recognizable as a classic Chuck Taylor.

Chuck Taylors Dainty

Ladies, are you wanting a less feminine shoe without it appearing overly bulky? Offered in the classic Chuck colours and the seasonal purple, blue and pink, the Chuck Taylor Dainty is halfway between a regular Chuck and a light. “Some things with Converse are sort of trendsetting,” White comments. “This was a silhouette that we came up with four years ago, this light and really thin sole. You know you've done something right when everyone and their dogs start knocking it off.”

DC Comics Converse

With bold colours and vividly drawn images, Converse's most recent DC-licensed products bring back our childhood heroes in style. “DC Comics and Converse have a great relationship,” says White. “We've been focusing on Superman and Batman for the last couple of years. We have one retailer that carries every single style that we do in Batman and Superman.”

Gorillaz Converse

Heard Gorillaz' new album DoYaThing? Whether a long-time fan or recently introduced to the band, Converse and Gorillaz's collaboration brings exciting news. With its spring line and an upcoming fall collection, Converse has come up with neat artwork to accompany the funky animated group's music album.

Chuck It + Chuck It Playlite

A new Converse silhouette, the Chuck It's cushioned sole and nylon-like material make it the perfect alternative to your average flip-flop. “This is like, you wear it down to the beach, you walk into the water, get back on your bike and ride home,” explains White. “You don't have to worry about wrecking your sneakers.” A convenient slip-on, the Chuck It is easily packed away on the outside pocket of your bag. Priced around $70, this affordable summer shoe also comes in a leaner profile for women, the Chuck It Playlite.

Jack Purcell Marimekko Converse

With sunshine-filled months right around the corner, it's time to bring out those vibrant colours! A women's-specific product from Finland, the Marimekko presents bold and eye-catching designs inspired by the works and paintings of various artists, taking up Converse's silhouettes up a notch this season.