Life & Living:  My Jack Purcell’s seem to be a conversation piece.

I’ve been wearing Jack Purcell’s for about a decade now.  After a hiatus of, oh, about 50 years. 

In my early teens, they were what I wore when I lived on a tennis court about 6 hours a day.  Even with double Wigwam socks, my ankles were stiff and sore in morning as I hobbled to the bathroom.

But no more.  My current Jack Parcels now have a quite comfortable under-carriage, courtesy of Nike Air Zoom technology.  Non-slip too.

Compared to typical old fart running or hiking shoes, I think they look cooler … paradoxically more contemporary … and perhaps a little dressier.  (Full disclosure:  My Hoka’s are better for jogging and hiking.)

What surprises me is how my Jack Purcell’s start conversations.  I can’t think of another apparel item I have that solicits comments from strangers.  Typically reminiscent, and always positive.  “Jack Purcells!  I used to wear those.  Loved them.” 

If you are so inclined (and I usually am), you can pursue a conversation.  When did you have a pair?  Where was that?  What were you doing then?  How did you end-up here?  Next thing you know, you are learning about someone’s life journey.  Always interesting and frequently enlightening.  And a strange reason to select sneakers.