Jake Davis Blog: Sneakers

Basics: White Tennis Shoe

James Dean in a pair of white Jack Purcells

I love asking you guys for advice on the basics from t-shirts to cologne. Now I want to hear from you about white tennis shoes. Personally, I wouldn't play tennis in any of the above sneakers, but I do like it when people refer to any athletic sneaker as a tennis shoe.

The white tennis shoe is a staple in my closet and most likely yours as well. There are so many different styles, brands, and variations. I want to hear which are your favorite of all time. Here are some classic starters...

Rod Laver Vintage - Original Tournament Collection | Adidas

Stan Smith Vintage | Adidas

Jack Purcell CP | Converse

Striper CVO | Sperry Top-Sider

Authentic | Vans

Chuck Taylor All Star | Converse

Monday, October 05, 2009 | Permalink | Comments (69)

Respect The Architect: Adidas Robert Haillet

Vintage Adidas Robert Haillet circa 1965

If you were to apply the Diffusion of Innovation Theory to sneakers the "Robert Haillet" would be a perfect example of a wild innovator. Adidas created the first all-leather tennis shoe in 1965. At the time the concept of an all-leather fabrication was incredibly groundbreaking in the arena of sport. However, its connector the out of prime tennis player himself, Mr. Haillet, was the wrong endorser to achieve wide spread popularity for such a forward idea. It wasn't until 1971 when Adidas renamed and endorsed the sneaker after the much loved and accoladed Stan Smith that it reached its tipping point.

The Robert Haillet was the first sneaker to make me fall in love with the simplicity of design. The first time I saw it was at Union in the late 90's on the feet of true innovators Chris Gibbs and Joe Thompson. It was the first time for me a sneaker got as much respect as a proper dress shoe. As hard as my friends tried to track down my size it never happened for the kid. The Robert Haillet will forever be the one that got away. But that's how first loves are sometimes... I'm sure you have one as well...

Saturday, March 07, 2009 | Permalink | Comments (1)