In the many years since, I've gone through a number of replacement pairs. More black ones and a few white ones. Now, I'm pleased to report, I've got another pair of maroon Chucks strapped on my feet. On a trip to the Converse outlet the other day, I was initially disappointed not to find my size in this color, but an employee quickly located a pair in the back of the store. And it was marked down to $19.99! A real steal compared to the $45 going rate.
I'm not sure exactly what makes these sneakers so cool. They've been around forever (actually introduced in 1917) and I've seen old photos of my dad wearing white Chucks on the basketball court during his high school and college days. Of course these stylish sneaks have also been perrenial favorites among the rock 'n' roll set, from the punk rockers of the 1970s through grunge king Kurt Cobain in the 90s and beyond.
All I know is, high-top Chucks feel good, look good and just plain are good. I'll wear 'em till I drop.