The most important day in the Chinese lunar calendar is New Year. In the case of 2010, that day is February 14, when it officially becomes the Golden Tiger Year, which only happens once every 60 years. As you'd expect, this looming festival date is a pretty big deal - the tiger is a most auspicious sign in the zodiac, one which symbolizes strength and wards off evildoers better than pepper spray to the eyeballs.
To celebrate this most prosperous occasion, Converse has produced a Chinese New Year 2010 collection. The pack features all the Converse franchises - Chuck Taylors, Jack Purcells, classic One Stars and even a concealed Weapon to round out the pack. As you'd expect, the classic red/black/gold colourway is liberally applied with a gatling gun, with the standout piece being the black and gold hightop tiger stripe Chuck that appears to be channeling both Johnny Thunders and Jackie Chan. Embellished with 24kt stripes, gold thread embroidery and enough calligraphy to startle a steamed pork bun, the Chinese New Year pack is available from the start of the year - but only in China! Gom bui and Happy Noo Yeah... As seen in Issue 17!
FROM THE PRESS RELEASE.
Jack Purcell Leather Triple V - Chinese New Year 2010 Year of the Tiger Collection
The Jack Purcell footwear in the collection carries an understated classic vibe, with soft black leather uppers and subtle Chinese New Year accents, such as detailed red taping on the tongue and lining, and the bold, all-over red and black stripes on the inside lining and footbed. The Triple V low top Velcro strap model features premium soft leather with tiger stripe graphics on inside lining and footbed. The lace version comes in black and dark brown models. Available exclusively in China starting January 1, 2010.
CONVERSE Chinese New Year 2010 Year of the Tiger Collection
Shanghai, CHINA - Converse ushers in the next 12 months with its Chinese New Year 2010 Year of the Tiger Collection. Bold Tiger prints grace the collection that features vibrant colors of red, gold, and orange, the most auspicious colors in Chinese culture. The collection is linked by various adaptations of the tiger face and tiger stripe graphic. The collection is a stylish interpretation of the most important holiday traditions in China.
2010 is referred to as the "Golden Tiger Year," a highly anticipated year of great zodiac significance since it occurs only once every 60 years. In Chinese culture the tiger is an extremely auspicious and powerful animal. Symbolizing courage, power and strength, the fearless and spirited fighter is revered by the ancient Chinese as a sign that wards off evil.
The Converse Year of the Tiger Collection pays homage to this important year featuring product from each of Converse's original franchises including playful editions of the Jack Purcell, Chuck Taylor All Star, One Star and Weapon 86 shoes. Further elevating this special collection and 2010, the Year of the Tiger collection will come in special packaging design inspired by the age-old Chinese tradition of the "red envelope" to wish fortune and wealth. With a tiger graphic embossed in gold and black, the Converse shoebox is a modern interpretation of the red envelope.

