The purple Chucks.
The last time I wore canvas shoes was in my primary school days. Then came Nike and Reebok with their high tech shoes fitted with pumps and air cushions, and slowly canvas shoes weren't so attractive anymore.
Fast forward some 20 years and I find myself wearing a pair of canvas shoes - the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars, or as fans would call them, Chucks.
I didn't specifically look for Chucks. I actually wanted a pair of Pallas shoes, that in retrospect, look very similar to Chucks.
As I'm wont to do after any purchases, I did some research online and discovered the rich history behind Chucks. It seems that many Americans grew up wearing Chucks and today, they're still attracted to them. It's probably due to nostalgia, but it could also be because Chucks have a down to earth appearance. It's simple and reminds people of simpler times. It also doesn't hurt that many famous people wear Chucks and that Chucks appear in many movies.
This led me to wonder. Why didn't the Malaysian made Pallas shoes achieve similar status in Malaysia? They look like Chucks, even down to the pattern on the soles. Most Malaysians would have probably worn them when they were young. Perhaps the only difference is that no rich and famous Malaysians wear them.
Chucks on the left, Pallas on the right.
It's quite a shame because the Pallas Jazz-Star is every bit as attractive as the Converse. It's definitely not as well made nor quite as comfortable, but at RM24, it's a good compromise.
My red Pallas Jazz-Star
Maybe it will take 100 years, as Converse celebrates its 100 year anniversary this year, before Malaysians begin to appreciate our very own, home grown, ever fashionable, ever humble pair of canvas shoe - the Pallas Jazz-Star.
I did my part. I bought a pair of Pallas Jazz-Star to complement my Chucks, and enjoy wearing them every day at work.
I did my part. I bought a pair of Pallas Jazz-Star to complement my Chucks, and enjoy wearing them every day at work.
