Now that winter is finally over, there’s never been a better time to rediscover the joys of the great outdoors. Of course, if we’re heading into nature, we have to do it in style. Thankfully, Converse and Slam Jam have got us sorted.
Fusing together the practicality of outdoor wear with street style sensibilities, the two brands’ latest collaboration ranges from a water repellent take of the classic Converse Bosey MC trainer in both Hi and the Ox cut (which itself takes cues from a 1950s archival wading boot) to a reversible sherpa jacket, ripstop trousers, a hoodie, and a long-sleeved tee. The result is both utilitarian and refined, complete with metallic details and weather-ready rubber detailings.
Accompanying the collection is a lo-fi campaign shot in the lush Forest of Fontainebleau, just outside Paris. Shot in woozy black-and-white, the images set the collection against organic stone structures and saturated woodland floors. “With this project, the choice to shoot in the Forest of Fontainebleau was made originally because of how the detailing in the Converse Slam Jam collection reflects the shapes found in the forest’s rock formations,” says art director Chris Glickman.
The campaign takes its cues from how artists are influenced by natural forms “that have remained unchanged throughout history”. “Exploring spaces and forms that remain largely unchanged provides us an opportunity to create perspective and ideally step back from the constant need to move and push forward regardless of consequence,” explains Glickman.
The Converse x Slam Jam collection will be available beginning March 20 in an exclusive preview on Slam Jam’s website and Slam Jam stores, and on the Converse website and selected retailers beginning March 25. Take a look at the campaign above.