Also, shop new Dr. Martens styles at low prices here.

Also, check out the Vans Custom Culture Competition video for more details.

Cost. North Face boots start at about $34.99, and cost upwards of $185. If you're looking for a pair of North Face boots for winter base camping, you can get them for around $99.99, but if you want a stylish pair like the Abby, trimmed with fur and perfect for any outfit, you'll spend about $184.99.

Purpose. Think about where you'll wear your North Face boots. If you live in a very cold climate, a pair trimmed with faux fur or lined with fleece will be necessary.

Your style. There's no point in springing for a pair of North Face boots in bright orange if you hate the colour. Don't compromise on style to get your boots – fortunately, North Face is known for being both stylish and functional, so don't settle!

You can find lots of great North Face boot styles on the site!

There are so many ways to customize your Vans shoes! Use your imagination for a truly standout look.

Check out our wide selection of Dr. Martens boots.

You still have a couple of days left to shop for gifts! Check out ZelenShoes.com for all styles of Converse toddler shoes.

Although it might seem like an odd pairing: a counter-culture store that usually works with musicians and artists and a company known for it's climbing and hiking gear, The North Face has drastically changed in the last few years. They've become much more fashion forward, so it's actually not a big surprise that they've teamed up with Supreme.

The result of the collaboration is the Nuptse Down Jacket, which features a printed water resistant nylon shell and a mini ripstop weave with 700 Goose Down Fill. Also available is the Rolling Thunder Bag, a stylish travel bag with a printed shell and a large main compartment with internal compression straps and top zip mesh pocket.

Both items come in three different leopard colorways, made exclusively for the The North Face x Supreme line.

Check out photos of The North Face Supreme line.

* Think about the recipient's personality. Are they loud and proud? Quiet and introspective? Some people love the unique look of Hello Kitty Dr. Martens, while others will appreciate basic black 8-holes much more.

* Consider the sizing. Dr. Martens fit pretty close to regular sizes, so make a note of the person's shoe size and order that.

* Check the shipping dates on the website! There's no point in ordering a stylish pair of Dr. Martens as a gift only to have them arrive on December 28th.

* Ensure you order your Dr. Martens from a reputable website. There are plenty of fake Docs out there (usually they are at a too-good-to-be-true price).

Zelen Shoes has a wide selection of Dr. Martens at great prices – check them out. Also, get free shipping in Canada!

• Andreas Wiig III
• Auro
• Celtek
• Cirro
• Encore
• Hi-Standard
• Holden
• Jamie Lynn
• Mantra
• Matlock

Women's snowboarding boots include:

• Aura
• Encore
• Hi-Standard
• Holden
• Kira
• Mantra
• Veil

Also coming up from Vans Snow: Vans Wängl Tängl 2012 at Vans Penken Park in Austria, presented by G-Shock. This snowboarding competition isn't happening until March, but the qualifications are now open.

Check out Zelen Shoes' selection of Vans shoes at great prices.

Glitter is one of the hottest trends for the holiday, and we've seen it on the runways and in the stores during the fall and winter 2011 season. The Converse Winter Glitz collection is great for girls who love the tomboy appeal of Converse shoes but are looking for a girly pair of shoes to match with a pair of skinny jeans or a holiday dress. Use them to add sparkle to any outfit during the holidays!

Check out photos of the Converse Winter Glitz collection.

The range of Swarovski Elements Dr. Martens will be available at the Wheelock Place store starting on December 16th. There are five styles available, including Dr. Martens shoes with just a hint of detail, toe-cap boots, and an all-over crystal studded pair. Every style of Swarovski Elements Dr. Martens are covered in either smokey or reflective crystals and come in a black shoebox with black packaging and an embroidered velvet shoe bag. Before you head out to buy a pair, check out the price tag: a whopping $899 to S$1,199.

See photos of the Swarovski Elements Dr. Martens here.

Infant North Face boots are also super stylish - like baby Vans and Converse, it's all about the brand. The North Face logo is embroidered on the outer in the same colour as the boot. You can choose from three colours: graphite blue, gravity purple, and ruffle pink.

The North Face brand was established in 1966 in San Francisco, and has become a go-to brand for outdoor enthusiasts. North Face makes everything from fleece jackets to tents. Their winter 2011 collection contains a number of bold prints and stylish patterns, and it appears the brand is focusing more on fashion as people look for cold-weather items that are not only functional, but look good as well.

North Face boots like the APPU Abby III and the APPY Nuptse are designed to keep your feet super warm whether you're hiking a mountain or holiday shopping in the city. But gone are the bulky, clunky women's boots we used to see on the shelves at sporting goods stores. North Face women's boots are sleek and trimmed with fabrics and faux fur to make them as fashionable as they are functional.

Check out North Face women's boots here.

Co-founder Jamie Hewlett (who rose to fame after Tank Girl) has been working to create the Gorillaz-themed prints for the Gorillaz Chuck Taylor shoe line.

The Gorillaz x Converse line will hit the shelves in February, and will retail for about $60. There will be four different styles of the new Gorillaz Chuck Taylor's, including the camouflage print that features the artwork from the band's debut album. Gorillaz will be releasing a special song to go along with the new footwear line, which will launch on December 1st in London.

See photos of the Gorillaz x Converse line.

Converse has previously done a First String Jack Purcell high-top shoe incorporating Bemis weld detailing, available in a gray/white colourway. It’s nice to see them go back to basic black for the latest First String JP Johnny Hi. This First String Converse will undoubtedly be the last of 2011 – who knows what we’ll see in 2012! Generally, Converse comes out with a new First String collection every few months, so we shouldn't have to wait too long!

See photos of the Converse First String JP Johnny Hi.

The Vans x Mooneyes were released to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show, and they'll be unveiled there on December 4th, 2011. The Vans x Mooneyes collaboration features the men's Vans Era shoe, and the actual shoe is subtle in basic black. However, it's the accents that make the Vans x Mooneyes really stand out. The black canvas has the bold Mooneye logo on the lining, insole and on the bright yellow laces. There's also the word “Moon” embroidery on the heel of the shoe. 

See photos of the Vans x Mooneyes shoes.

The term 'Black Friday' originated in the 1960s, when police officers in Philadelphia used it to describe the day after Thanksgiving, when the streets would be clogged with holiday shoppers. Over the past 10 years or so, Black Friday has become one of the most popular shopping days in the US, with in-store and online deals. Some of the top Black Friday retailers include Walmart, Target, and Sears.

To find Black Friday deals, you can simply Google keywords such as "Converse, Vans and Dr. Martens" with the term Black Friday. You'll find savings of up to 40% on the latest styles of shoes at a number of different retailers.

And now, Dr. Martens has taken the next step and created a new capsule of clothing and accessories for their 2011 fall/winter collection. Some of the featured items in the new Dr. Martens clothing line are a donkey jacket, Scottish knitwear clothing with suede elbow patches, and heavyweight wool coats. There are also a line of button down shirts that will look good on guys or girls.

You can see that Dr. Martens clothing and accessories line is really influenced by English style. It first both with the brand and with the styles from other designers we're seeing this season.

See photos of the new Dr. Martens clothing and accessories line here.

The Vans Sophie is a part sneaker, part sleek dance shoe. These ladies' Vans remind me of the shoes you'd see girls in the 50s wearing with poodle skirts and cardigans, but they've been modernized with funky patterns and colours: flowers, cherries, polka dots, stars...there's even a floral brocade-like Sophie that would be perfect with skirts or dresses.

If you don't want to wear patterns, solid colour choices include green, pink, white and black. If you like a little lift in your shoes, some of the Sophie's come with low wedge heels.

View photos of the Vans Sophie.

In the old days, as a vegetarian or vegan, you didn't have many options when it came to footwear. Almost everything was crafted out of leather or suede, and most people weren't overly familiar with animal rights. Fortunately, times have changed, and there are now multiple vegan footwear options for those of us who don't like to wear meat on our feet!

Well, we know that not all Converse are vegan, as some are made with suede or leather, but what about the canvas Chuck Taylor style? It's a debate that's raged for a long time, with some people believing that yes, canvas Converse shoes are vegan, and others saying “no”!

Earlier this summer, Martha Flatley, a vegan blogger, emailed Converse to try and clear up the controversy once and for all. This was their response to her Are Coverse Vegan: Once and For All post:

"Thank you for your email. Unfortunately, we do not have any products that are certain to be Vegan-friendly. While the majority of our materials are animal-by-product free, the glue in our products can sometimes contain some animal by-products. So, it is not possible for us to advertise our products as being truly vegan."

Basically, some of the glue and other products Converse uses in its shoes may contain animal products. That doesn't mean it does, however, they can't certify that their canvas and rubber shoes do not contain some animal products.

I hope this clears up the debate!

I was glad to see that Converse has used faux shearling in their new line of women's Chuck Taylor Converse shoes for fall. The suede high tops are a rich nutmeg colour, lined with cream faux shearling. There are cream laces and stitching to match, and you'll see the signature Chuck Taylor logo on the heel and the inner side of the shoe. As a final touch, the rubber outsole is trimmed with the same nutmeg colour as the shoe. The upper is all leather, with a textile insole.

These shearling Converse Chuck Taylor shoes are made for the fall and winter. Shearling is extremely warm, so these are best suited for colder climates. You have the choice of lacing these shearling Converse Chuck Taylor shoes up or turning the tongues down to display the shearling.

• Baby pink
• Ruby red
• Lavender
• Baby blue
• Gray-violet
• Yellow
• Orange

In a season filled with warm clothing and winter boots, try a burst of colour on your feet. Pair your colourful Converse shoes with a pair of dark-wash denim jeans and matching t-shirt or sweatshirt. Or, opt for a white or black top and match your accessories with your Converse shoes – you'll stand out but not too much!

Skull baby Vans shoes: Your rocker baby will love these tough-looking baby Vans shoes, decorated with a white skull.

Heart baby Vans: Pink, yellow and blue hearts cover these black canvas infant Vans.

If you're looking for a baby gift, infant Vans are a great idea! They're cute and feature soft bottoms and insoles to support and cushion baby's feet.

Most of us are familiar with casual, comfy Vans shoes – most of us have a pair or two kicking around. Vans skyrocketed to popularity in the 60s, when they were adopted as the “it” shoe by skateboarders in Southern California. They got even more in demand when they were featured in the movie “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”, worn by none other than Sean Penn.

Well, what most of us don't know is that there are also Vans boots. We're not talking about the part-boot-part-sneaker Chukka style, but honest-to-goodness boots. They're marketed under the “Vans Snow” brand, and are built for snowboarding. It makes sense that Vans would design snowboarding boots, as many skateboarders love the sport. Vans boots became super popular after 2000, because they were one of the first companies to create snowboarding boots in a funky rainbow of colours.

Snowboard boot companies such as Sorel and Burton stuck largely to black and grey (although that's changed now). Vans released snowboarding boots in colours like turquoise, purple and orange, attracting youths who wanted something different from what everyone else was wearing on the slopes.

See photos of Vans snowboarding boots here.

The goal for the Vans X Cult collection has always been all about simple and clean sneakers with subtle features. They retain a lot of the casual style you expect from Vans shoes, but are modern enough to keep them interesting.

Now there's a brand new pair of Vans X Cult sneakers that just hit the stores. These Vans sneakers are just in time for Halloween! The leather uppers are all black, with contrasting white midsoles, and bright orange insoles with a printed sockliners. There's even a horror-inspired Cult logo tag on the tongue and a free Cult X Vans magazine with purchase.

Check out these Halloween-themed sneakers here.

Check out photos of all these Converse bags for fall 2011.

Okay, Converse didn't buy the rights to the Jack Purcell shoe until the 1970s, when they purchased the trademark rights to the footwear you know and love today, but still, they've been around for longer than you've been alive.

Well, Jack Purcell Converse shoes have come a long way, and this fall there's a new style of “Jacks” in town. The Converse Jack Purcell Mid Boat is a stylish brown leather creation that puts an edge on the canvas Jack Purcell shoes we're used to. With a  natural classic docksider boat shoe design, the Converse Jack Purcell Mid Boat is a new take on one of the most classic Converse shoes we know.

Check out photos of the Converse Jack Purcell Mid Boat here.

With fall comes cold weather, and this year Converse has done something unique: lined Converse boots and shoes. Keep your feet warm with faux sheepskin-lined Converse shoes and boots, perfect for the chilliest of fall days.
See photos of the Converse shoes I talked about in this post here.

A few years ago Converse went hardcore with a line of waterproof, Thinsulate tactical boots, which were popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Their light brown desert boot actually turned out to be one of their top sellers, as it was rugged yet could be worn with jeans or khakis.

For a more fashionable feel, Converse has a number of canvas and leather boots available for fall 2011. One of the notable new Converse boots is the lightweight leather multi-strap style. With a number of sleek leather buckles crossing the ankle and leg of the boot, it looks tough yet stylish. The straps serve a functional purpose too: you can adjust the Converse boot to fit your unique foot shape.

Check out the multi-strap Converse boot.

These vintage Converse sneakers are on store shelves now!

Vans is well known for continuously making over their classics with new and improved materials. Vans leather shoes kick your style up a notch and give you multiple options: you can wear them to skate in or pair them with dress pants for a nice dinner out.

The Vans Classic Slip-on has been remade in sleek Italian leather, giving it a slightly shiny effect. Check it out!

The Authentic is another Vans leather shoe coming out for fall 2011. The leather Vans Authentic is a four-eyelet shoe with a white rubber outsole, giving it a slightly more casual feel than the leather Vans Classic Slip-on. Check it out!

Vans leather shoes are available at stores now.

So, how do you prevent falling for fake Converse shoes? Of course, you can buy from the Converse site, but are you getting the lowest prices on the product and on shipping? By shopping around, you can save both time and money, but follow these tips on how to spot fake Converse shoes so you don't get ripped off:

1. Only shop at a reputable retailer. If you're not sure about the validity of the site or the product, don't risk it. Move on and find a well-established online store that you can trust.

2. Think about the price. There are lots of cheap Converse shoes out there that are real. However, if the price seems suspiciously too good to be true, it probably is.

3. Examine the shoes closely. First, look for fading. Fake Converse shoes generally have a faded tongue patch and Converse shoes logo. The lettering on the patches is usually hard to read and appears "dimmer." Next, check the rubber toe and outsole. You can spot fake Converse shoes by the lower quality rubber: rather than a smooth round toe, fake Converse shoes have a skinnier toe with uneven rubber. Also, the black line around the white outsole is often drawn on crookedly.

Vans releases a new California Collection of shoes every season, and while the styles change, the theme stays the same: casual and minimalistic. There are a number of new styles in the Vans California Collection for fall 2011, including the Chukka Decon CA, the Classic Slip-on CA, the Era Wingtip CA, the Old Skool Ca, the Authentic One Piece CA, the 106 Moc Ca, and the Authentic Lo Pro Ca. 

All of the Vans California Collection shoes have been done with premium materials such as twill, suede, linen, herringbone and tweed, of course created in Vans signature style. You can catch the Vans California Collection in early fall.

Check out some photos of the Vans California Collection here. 

• A pair of canvas Vans shoes (white Vans are best)
• Comic book
• Scissors
• Paint brush
• Fabric Mod Podge
• Waterproofing spray
• Hole punch

1. First, cut out the comic book pictures you want. Remove the laces from your Vans.

2. Apply a light coat of Mod Podge over the canvas to seal the fabric.

3. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the back of a piece of comic book, then press the picture against the canvas. Smooth it out to eliminate wrinkles.

4. Keep going until you've covered your Vans shoes. When you get to the shoelace holes, cover them with comic book paper then use a hole punch to punch the paper out.

5. Keep applying coats of fabric Mod Podge to prevent paper from peeling off. Apply 3-4 coats - let each coat dry before you add another.

6. Apply waterproofing spray. Let dry for 24 hours.

There you go, creative comic book Vans!

 

In the summer we tend to gravitate towards brightly-coloured clothing and shoes. Check out these ruby red Vans and a nice purple pair. However, fall is just around the corner, and with it comes a whole bunch of new releases from your favourite shoe companies. Here are a couple of great colours to try in men's Vans shoes:

Go for a lighter gray colour that looks great with jeans and khakis. The charcoal Vans Classic Slip-ons go way back to the skateboarding culture in Southern California in the 60s. Check them out!

While many black men's Vans shoes feature contrasting white stitching, these Old Skools feature black on black for a more subtle style statement. The Vans Old Skool is an original that's available in all sorts of colours and patterns, but we love the black on black for darker fall days. Check them out!

Another men's Vans shoe worth mentioning for fall: those in the Dark Shadow Pack. The Vans Dark Shadow Pack consists of the classic Half Cab and Authentic, both in charcoal suede with black soles and shoe laces. 

This year, Converse is releasing a new line of Jack Purcell sneakers. While previous Converse Jack Purcell lines have had a super sporty feel, this line is more preppy and collegiate looking. Available in a range of rich browns, white, and even plaid, these Converse sneakers would be well suited with a pair of khakis and a polo shirt. Preview the new Jack Purcell Converse sneakers here.

The Converse x Marimekko shoe is getting a ton of press, featuring bold, crazy colour schemes. Marimekko is a famous Finnish design house who has collaborated with Converse before. You can check out photos of these new Converse sneakers here.

While this post is about Converse sneakers, we had to mention something we haven't seen from Converse in awhile: boots. This season's Converse boots are rugged and look like they've come straight out of the U.S. military. The new lineup of Converse boots are made with winter-ready materials, so you can actually use them for hunting, fishing, or just hanging outdoors when the weather gets colder.

Vans Classic Slip On in White: Nothing beats a cool, classic pair of Vans when the summer heats up. The Vans Classic Slip On has been around since the 1960s, when skateboarders in California discovered their durability and comfort.

Vans Authentic Lo Pro: The Vans Lo Pros were created specifically for the ladies, who loved the Vans label but didn't want a stocky sneaker. The Vans Lo Pro shoe is a sleek and slim shoe that's cut ultra low so you can go barefoot. Look for Vans Authentic Lo Pro shoes in vibrant colours like purple.

Vans Era Shoes: The Vans Era shoe is another style that goes way back! These stylish Vans shoes are most commonly seen paired with a crisp pair of jeans or a worn pair of board shorts. Because the Vans Era shoes lace up, you don't have to worry about a shoe full of sand on the beach.

Do you have a favourite summer shoe? Tell us about it!

Dr. Martens Wingtip Shoes: One of the designs Dr. Martens has been doing well in the past few years is releasing dress shoes. This fall, Dr. Martens has come out with a cool and casual style of wingtips in two colours: basic black and rich burgundy. WIth a rubber outsole and fine detailing, these Docs will be equally at home in the office or out on the town. Check them out.

Dr. Martens Paisley Pack: The Dr. Martens Paisley Pack has been getting a great deal of attention in the media. These boots bring back memories of the psychadelic 60s. The Dr. Martens Paisley boot is available in two patterns: beige and brown, with yellow accents, or cherry red with blue. You've got your choice of two types: the Jeffrey (updated 8-Eyelet Boots) and Octavius (updated 4-Eyelet Shoe). See photos.

Dr. Martens British Millerian: 2011 is the first year that Dr. Martens is releasing a number of its shoes in British Millerian fabrics.The British Millerian collection comes in the Langley, 5-Eye Saddle and 5-eye Brogue. The Langley is an all-brown dress shoe with a soft, supple suede upper, while the saddle shoe and brogue is a blend of darker and lighter browns. See photos here.

The Vans Zapato Del Barco is predominantly made of canvas, with rough seams around the edges of the shoe to give them a cool, distressed feel. There is also a little brown leather wrapping around the upper through the metallic lace holes (this also makes it easy to make adjustments). While that sounds like a true boat shoe, the rubber outsole is pure sneaker. There seems to be a plethora of hybrid shoes coming out this fall - half sneaker, half boat shoe. We've seen styles similar to the Vans Zapato Del Barco from brands like Spiery and Yuketen that do both well.

The most stylish part of the Vans Zapato Del Barco shoe is the cotton lining, which comes in a variety of plaid patterns. There are a few different colourways of the Vans Zapato Del Barcos: grey with red flannel, black with grey flannel, and black with grey lining.

The Vans Zapato Del Barco shoe will be coming out in early fall 2011 starting at about $64.95 CAD. Check out photos of these cool new Vans shoes here.

If the Mackintosh brand sounds familiar, it's likely because it's one of the oldest, most famous waterproof jackets. The first one was sold in 1824, and over the years the Mackintosh brand (named after its Scottish inventor Charles Macintosh - the "k" was added later), these sturdy coats are often called "Macs" and are especially popular in Europe.

John Edward “Jack” Purcell was born in Canada, and was a world champion badminton player who designed a canvas and rubber badminton sneaker for Converse. Jack Purcell Converse have consistently remained popular throughout the years, and they look quite similar to the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star.

There are three versions of the Jack Purcell Johnny shoe, each featuring the classic Jack "smile" on the toe and detailing, as well as white rubber outsoles. Choose from a navy blue Jack Purcell with a lime interior, a beige with chocolate version or dark olive and plum (this pair would be awesome for autumn). An added bonus: each pair of the Mackintosh Jack Purcell Converse comes with a spare set of shoelaces in the contrast colour.

You likely recall the stories of how Chuck Taylor's came to be. The story goes all the way back to 1917, when the athlete-slash-salesman Chuck Taylor began wearing, promoting and selling them, making them insanely popular. Chuck Taylor's are the top-selling style of Converse shoes.

Fast forward over 80 years, and there are dozens of takes on the classic Chuck Taylor, one being the Slim style of sneaker. While these shoes were first designed for women's feet, nowadays you'll see that some of the guys like the low-cut fit of the Chuck Taylor Slim series. Because the Chuck Taylor Slim line is available in a myriad of colours, both guys and girls can easily find a style that suits their personality. The Chuck Taylor Slim shoe is identical to the original Chuck Taylor, only the rubber outsole is thinner and the ankle cut is very low.

Some of our favourite Chuck Taylor Slim shoes are the distressed canvas ones in chocolate and light grey, because they compliment so many colours and outfits. What's your slim style?

Vans Cedar Shoes: There are two styles of this sleek feminine Vans shoe, which has a soft lining of flannel so you can go barefoot in the summer. The florals are a muted mix or rust, navy and gold, making them ideal for summer or fall and winter.

Floral Dr. Martens: Doc Martens has released a number of floral printed fabrics this year, many in the form of tapestry-covered boots. However, we've seen a switch to boat shoes and sandals this summer - it looks like Docs has really modernized their collection for 2011.

Floral Havaianas: Havaianas recently came out with four new styles of florals, just in time for those long days at the beach. The orange, red, blue and turquoise footbeds have a cool white floral design that won't fade.

Here's a tip: Don't overdo it with florals. If you're wearing floral Vans, Dr. Martens or Havaianas, keep the flowers to a minimum. For example, accessorize with a soft floral scarf or belt to keep things from getting too busy.

Some of the most popular Vans Lo Pro shoes for women include a royal purple pair, leopard print, and the lace-up Authentic/Lo Pro hybrid. While the Vans Lo Pro shoe was first created for functionality, it quickly became a fashionable way to wear sneakers with everything from jeans to short skirts.

Over the years, Vans Lo Pro has become available in many more colours and prints. Earlier this year, Vans released black and grey zebra-print and brown and beige leopard print Vans Lo Pros. It was a great move on Vans' part as animal print is once again trendy in 2011, and it's a versatile style that will remain popular throughout the summer, fall and winter.

So, whether you need a tough shoe to skate in or want to complete the perfect outfit, the Vans Lo Pro shoe fits any lady's style and personality.

Converse Trapasso Mid: Nick Trapasso was only 21 when his Converse Skate Trapasso Mid came out, and his namesake sneaker has been revamped and re-released a number of times. The Converse Trapasso mid is a suede skate shoe that's somewhere in between the Chuck Taylor All Star and the Star Player, and is available in a myriad of colours, including black, beige and purple.

Converse Sea Star: The Sea Star is a Converse skate sneaker that's a fresh take on a classic boat shoe. The Sea Star has an all suede upper and metal eyelet lacing system for increased durability. You can also get the Converse Sea Star in leather for a sleeker skate look.

Converse Star Player Xlite: The Star Player Xlite is another collaboration between Converse and a pro skateboarder. Kenny Anderson recently filmed an ad in Mexico for the skate shoes, performing tricks on the streets and on a water park slide.

What's your favourite Converse skate shoe?

Check out these shoes here.

The Vans and Hello Kitty line is fun and fashionable, and is now available in stores, online and at some Sanrio stores. Hello Kitty Vans are great for guys, girls and kids, and you'll have your choice between the Classic Vans slip-on, a Sk8 Hi D-Lo high top sneaker or a lace-up low top sneaker. Each of the Hello Kitty Vans shoe styles features the famous kitty faces in a variety of colour combos: pink and black; pink, green, yellow and white; white, red, black and pink; and pink and black.

The Hello Kitty released this statement earlier this year:

“Sanrio and Vans have teamed up to launch a footwear collaboration for Hello Kitty fans, Vans fans, and sneakerpimps of all ages! Arriving in June, the Vans x Hello Kitty collection will feature an awesome variety of styles and designs, including the Classic slip-on in checkerboard print, low-top laced Authentic in all-over prints and high-top Sk8-Hi D-Lo, in a cute custom print. RAD!”

What do you think of Vans' attempt at a collaboration with Hello Kitty?

The Converse and DC Comics collaboration was a fresh design that sold incredibly well worldwide. The line included comic book characters such as Superman, The Joker, The Green Lantern and Batman decorating the sides of Converse Chuck Taylor All Star's.

The Missoni and Converse collaboration is another highlight of Converse's spring and summer 2011 collection. Missoni and Converse have collaborated in the past - remember the Fall 2010 collection? Well, the duo is at it again with the limited edition Missoni All Star Chuck Taylor's, with colourful patterns that are definitely attention-grabbing.

Jack Purcell was a world champion badminton player in the 30s, and his Converse shoes has stood the test of time - they are continuously being revamped, although they always keep the signature smile on the toe! The Comme des Garçons by Jack Purcell are available in both low-top and hi-top versions. The Jack Purcell Helen is for the ladies, with a slim, sleek design and lightweight canvas upper.

What's your favourite Converse style - new or old? Tell us in the comments!

Nothing says “Vans” like the classic checkerboard slip-on, first made famous in the 60s by skateboarders in Southern California who loved the stylish pattern, durable construction and waffle grip sole. The popularity of Vans checkerboard slip-ons reached epic proportions when a young Sean Penn wore them as surfer Jeff Spicoli in the comedy “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.”

The Vans checkerboard slip-on is such a simple shoe: a comfortable canvas upper patterned with squares, a thick white rubber outsole and the trademark Vans tag on the side. Over the years, the Vans checkerboard slip-on has been released in various colour combinations in addition to the well known white and black, including red and black, blue and gray, and pink and purple.

Just a few of the many celebrities who have been spotted wearing Vans checkerboard slip-ons include Ellen Page, Zac Efron, John Krasinski, Drew Barrymore, Dave Grohl, Jessica Biel, and Justin Long.

The Vans checkerboard slip-on has even become a hit among babies and toddlers – the Vans infant slip-ons are some of the best selling baby shoes ever.

It's just been announced that Havaianas will team up with the Italian designer Missoni this summer for a colourful collection.The dynamic duo will release three new designs, combining Missoni's signature zig-zag and wave pattern with the bright colours of Havaianas flip-flops. The name of the collection is “Missoni Loves Havaianas”.

Havaianas flip-flops originated in Brazil, but it didn't take long for their popularity to explode throughout the rest of the world. The three Havaianas x Missoni flip-flops are the Slim Wave, which features a curvy pattern of yellow, green, orange, blue, black pink and purple, while the Top ZigZag has an identical colour combination with zig-zags instead of waves. The Top Fiammato flip-flops are a bold combo of blue, black, red and white. As a bonus, there is a great pair of espadrilles in the Missoni Loves Havaianas collaboration (perfect for people who hate having anything between their toes)!

 Remember when Missoni collaborated with Converse for their Fall 2010 collection? That was cool. Read the article.

Bloggers are calling the Nick Trapasso Converse shoes "all-American", but they are selling like crazy all over the world! There are two different styles of the Nick Trapasso Converse shoe. The first is a low-top white shoe with the signature star in khaki coloured suede. A red stripe is a contrasting accent all the way around the white rubber outsole, and the tongue tag has "Cons" and "Trapasso" in bold red and black lettering.

The other style of Nick Trapasso Converse shoes is a higher style of the All-Star - you could almost call it a boot. This one's more subtle, consisting of an all-suede khaki-coloured upper, with a black stripe around the rubber outsole and "Cons All Star" tongue tag.

Both styles of the Nick Trapasso Converse shoes are designed for comfort, with memory foam padding in the tongue and collar to mold to your feet and keep them super cozy while you skate.

Women's Dr. Martens: The new Dr. Martens for women are so pretty - the animal print Docs that had everyone raving last season are back, this time available in an adorable cut-out sandal style too. Another standout is the Dr. Martens boot featuring flower and crosses cutouts, which is similar to the earlier Jean Paul Gaultier for Dr. Martens line that was released last season and sold out very quickly.

Men's Dr. Martens: Although there are a few styles of Dr. Martens boots for men this year, the emphasis is on cool, casual shoes. The line of Dr. Martens shoes includes a brogue, saddle shoe, and tassle loafer, some with a complementary brick red sole. The Dr. Martens men's shoes do come in your classic black and brown, but they have added some muted colours to the line such as dusty blue and grey. The Dr. Martens saddle shoes come in the same subtle colourways, such as beige and white and grey and white.

It's great to see such modern, clean designs from Dr. Martens, who stuck to their conventional boot - without any contemporary variations - for so many years. Get the lowest prices on Dr. Martens online, with free shipping in Canada.

Vans Authentic shoes were the original style of Vans that adorned many a skateboarder's feet in the 60s and 70s. Originally, they were simply called “Vans deck shoes” - the Authentic moniker came around later.

The Vans Authentic shoe is a simple, low-top sneaker, which of course comes with the classic waffle grip sole and white rubber outsole. When Vans Authentic shoes first came out, they were only available in basic black and white. Today, you can find Vans Authentic shoes in all shades, including ruby red, navy, and royal purple.

As the popularity of Vans Authentic shoes grew, they began to be a celebrity staple. Authentic sneakers have been spotted on the feet of stars like Zac Efron and Kanye West. Because the Vans Authentic shoe is a lace-up, it's become popular to tie them up in fun, funky ways with brightly coloured shoelaces.

Isn't it amazing that what started out as a functional skate shoe has stayed popular for 50 years and become one of the top-selling shoes in the world?

The original Vans Old Skool shoes were the Core Classics. With a canvas and suded upper, the Core Classics reduced sweating and stink, while the Off-The-Wall rubber sole kept feet firmly planted on the board. These originals were offered in basic colourways such as navy, white and black.

There have been multiple releases of the Vans Old Skool shoe over the years - too many to mention here! One of the most recent Vans Old Skool shoe re-creations was the Supreme x Vans Old Skool collaboration last year, with bright colourways like grey/purple and yellow/royal blue. The Supreme collection has been reinvented with a fresher suede and mesh look, though the sturdy construction is still the same.

The Vans Old Skool City Pack is another modern take on the Old Skool skate shoe. These retro-inspired shoes are a homage to the skateboarders in Frisco and Chi-City in the 70s, featuring city-inspired colours such as orange and black.

For girls, there was the chic and casual Old Skool V shoe, which was very similar to the Core Classics, only with a heightened sole and available in pretty colours such as pink.

What are your favourite Old Sool Vans shoes?

There are a number of interesting facts about Jack Purcell, whose Converse shoe was one of the top-selling sneakers of all time. He was Canadian, and he was a world champion badminton player. Purcell was the Canadian National Badminton Champion in both 1929 and 1930, and was declared the world champion in 1933.

However, the Converse Jack Purcell wasn't a style staple way back in the 1930s. Originally, Purcell designed his lightweight canvas and rubber court shoe for the BF Goodrich Company. His goal was to give badminton players a better shoe that provided the support and functionality needed for lots of stops and starts on the badminton court. Converse only bought the rights to the shoe in the 1970s, and the Converse Jack Purcell was born.

Fun fact: You can always tell a Converse Jack Purcell by the signature "smile" across the toe.

Vans Authentic shoes were first made for grown up feet - they were the original style of Vans shoes to be sold on the shelves in the 1960s, when skateboarders were first wearing the now iconic brand. Today, Vans Authentic infant shoes have become super popular among stylish tots! While infant Vans Authentic shoes don't have the waffle grip sole (they are soft-soled for babies' sensitive feet) they are still incredibly supportive for mini-ankles and feet. See pink and black Vans Authentic shoes.

Another cool California classic is the Vans Slip On shoe for Infants. One benefit of the Vans Infant Slip Ons is that it lacks laces, so you won't have to contantly be bending over to tie up your kid's shoes! LIke the Vans Authentic infant shoes, the Vans Slip Ons for babies have a soft, comfy textile insole.

So, next time you need a baby gift, think outside the (shoe) box and track down a pair of Vans shoes for infants!

Converse Chuck Taylor leather high top: That's right, a leather Chuck Taylor. The Converse Chuck Taylor was originally called the Converse All Star, and was introduced all the way back in 1910. In 1923 Chuck Taylor added his name to the shoe, and went on to work as a salesman for the company for many years. Converse's most iconic shoe has been updated with a sleek leather upper in black, white or charcoal, with a white rubber outsole. Other variations on the basic Chuck Taylor leather high top: the all-black leather monochrome low top and the leather monochrome high top.

Converse Jack Purcell leather low top: Jack Purcell is another name that has been associated with Converse for ages. Jack Purcell was a Canadian badminton legend who was declared the world champion in 1933. He designed the Jack Purcell Converse as a court shoe, and it's been re-invented and revamped a number of times. The Jack Purcell leather low top is available in black or white, with a white rubber outsole and the well-known "smile" on the rubber toe.

June is here, and with the beginning of summer comes the end of the school year! Graduating high school students are on the hunt for the perfect prom outift, and that includes fabulous footwear! One of the most popular ways to accessorize a prom dress or tux is with Converse low tops. Not only are Converse shoes a unique way to stand out on the dance floor, but they are also much more comfortable than sky-high heels or men's dress shoes - you'll be able to dance all night and not be sidelined by blisters or pinched toes.

Some of the most popular Converse shoes for girls at prom are low-top Chuck Taylor's in colours that match typical prom dress hues such as pastel pink, baby blue, yellow, lilac, and cherry red. Guys often stick with basic black low or high-top Converse shoes in canvas or leather, although the charcoal grey or all-white could go well with the right tuxedo.

Many prom-goers take their shoe style one step further and customize their Converse before prom. It's easy to add sequins or sparkles that match the colour of your prom dress using a hot glue gun. Guys can opt to add shoelaces that match their date's prom dress – an awesome touch (and much more unique than a tacky cummberbun)! So, get creative and think outside the dress shoe box before prom this year!

Chances are you've seen a pair of Vans Authentic shoes online or in stores...many of you probably have a pair or two kicking around in your closet! When you look at the Vans Authentic shoes of today, you may wonder what they have in common with shoes in the 60s. The answer: everything!

When the Vans shoe store first opened in 1966 in Southern California, there were only three styles of Vans to choose from. They were basic Vans deck shoes, which are now known as Vans Authentic, in three simple colours. Of course, the Vans Authentic shoes of today are much more advanced in terms of material and design and have been revamped by pro skateboarders, they are still similar to the original shoes that became a big hit among California skateboarders and an even bigger hit among the general public after Vans were featured in the classic “Fast Times at Ridgmont High” movie.

So, while Vans Authentic shoes have been redesigned throughout the years (the Lo Pro Skate Shoes come to mind) they are a true icon...ever since they were the only shoe to stock the shelves at the first Vans shoe store!

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Store Bought Custom Doc Martens

You can choose to buy custom Doc Martens from a retailer. While the Dr. Martens company does not make custom footwear, there are several online stores where you can order up any design you’d like, or choose from custom Doc Martens on display. Last year, Japanese designer Nozomi Ishiguro created a collection of “modified” Dr. Martens, using various kinds of studs to give the boots a rocker edge.

Do-It-Yourself Custom Doc Martens

If you’re confident you’re crafty enough to customize your own Dr. Martens, this is a great way to ensure you have a one-of-a-kind pair. We’ve told you about customizing Vans shoes, but these techniques can’t be used on leather Dr. Martens. To customize your Doc Martens, you can use studs or spikes, or paint your boots with a cool design. However, do not just start painting your Docs! There are special types of paint made specifically for leather, so inquire at your local craft suppy store for some advice before you start.

This year, Vans is releasing an updated Old Skool sneaker, designed after the classic Mike Carrol shoe that was introduced in 1994. Vans has again partnered with Supreme, the popular apparel company out of New York, to create the line. The Vans Old Skool sneakers are available in three different colourways featuring the suede and mesh upper from the original. Vans fans can choose from basic black, light brown, or soft powder blue Old Skools.

Another blast from the past – the Authentic Vans sneaker. The Authentic has been redone dozens of ways, and remains one of the company’s best sellers. True to its name, the Authentic was an original back in the 60s when skateboarders and surfers were first discovering the iconic shoe with the waffle sole. The 2011 Authentic is the result of another collaboration, this time between Vans and the French company A.P.C. The two companies are also working on a new release of the Chukka, which we’ve seen in previous Vans collections

Just in time for summer, there are two new styles of men’s Converse skate shoes that we’ve heard have just hit the shelves. There are a lot of exciting releases from Converse this year – we just told you about the John Varvatos Converse collection, a new take on the popular Star Chevron line.

Converse Green Lantern Chuck Taylors: If you’ve seen the new movie with Seth Rogen, you’ll likely recognize the iconic characters on the shoes. The Green Lantern Converse collection is a collaboration between Converse and DC Comics, featuring comic book characters such as The Joker, Superman, Batman, and of course The Green Lantern on the outer side of the canvas upper.

Comme de Garcons Jack Purcell Converse: Jack Purcell was a badminton star in the 1930s, and his original shoe style has been modernized in the Comme de Garcons skate shoes. This summer’s Jack Purcell’s are available in two black canvas and two natural canvas styles, in your choice of hi top or low tops. These sneakers have two unique features: a black or red heart Comme des Garçons PLAY logo and the Purcell “smile” that goes across the toe.

So, if you’re looking to rock a new style of sneakers this summer, both the Green Lantern Converse and the Comme de Garcons Jack Purcell’s are a funky footwear addition to any wardrobe. Look for them in stores and online.

Choose from a basic black, beige and white or chocolate brown and white Doc Martens wingtip and saddle shoe. Each shoe in the Duple collection features the comfy air-cushioned sole we’ve come to love (and expect!) from our Docs. Instead of the black outsole we consistently see on Doc Martens, the Duples have a bold brick red outsole that gives them a unique look that stands out from your everyday Oxford or saddle shoe.

Another great release from Doc Martens this spring: A cool lineup of work wear-inspired apparel, including  button-down and denim shirts, cotton tees and sweat shirts.

We’ve seen Converse sneakers in every colour combination, and this year’s release of kids’ kicks is no different. The Chuck Taylor All Star Converse shoes come in a range of vibrant colours like pink, purple, yellow, green, blue and red. Fun prints include a fruity strawberry style, blue or red gingham print, and an American flag design. The Chuck Taylor All Star Converse also comes in a colourful collection of hi top sneakers with a smooth texture, lace-up closure and durable rubber shell toe. The hi top Taylors come in the same cool patterns and colours as the low top ones.

Like all kids’ Converse shoes, the 2011 Chuck Taylor collection features the sturdy rubber outsole, vulcanized construction, and a lightweight, flexible canvas upper.

This spring, the dynamic duo is teaming up again to release the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star x John Varvatos Specialty 2011 Collection. Think casual Converse style with an edge; these will definitely complete any rock star look you’re going for. John Varvatos consistently turns out award-winning rock ‘n roll designs each season, creating menswear that’s both classy and rebellious at the same time.

There are three styles to choose from in the Converse Chuck Taylor x John Varvatos 2011 Collection:

Painted Flag Chuck Taylor All Star Hi: with monotone colours, this signature painted canvas shoe is embellished with a series of pyramid studs around the ankle.

Leather Woven Chuck Taylor All Star Hi: The entire upper of this black leather hi top looks like it’s been intricately woven, creating a bold look that’s just as easily paired with faded jeans or leather pants.

Low Cut 2011 John Varvatos: If you’re not so sure about woven leather or studs, opt for this low cut style, crafted out of soft, supple leather with a white rubber outsole.

White Vans Authentic: These classic Vans take you back to where it all began. These are the original Vans skate shoes, and they are some of the most versatile sneakers out there. Nothing says summer like cool, clean, white shoes, so pick up a pair of Vans Authentic sneakers and hit the beach, the patio, or the house party.

The Vans 106 Chambray: These denim-inspired shoes are made of light, breathable material to keep your feet dry and comfy in the summer heat. The Vans 106 Chambray shoes are a dark denim that add style to any outfit, especially if you swap the laces for a cool colour like pink or white.

Vans and Supreme Collaboration: This recent collaboration between Vans and Supreme is a wild new look for your feet this season. With a bold black and white print and contrasting blue checkered patch on the heel, this is Vans standout shoe of the spring/summer.

Dr. Martens 1461 ‘Made in England’ Leopard & Zebra Shoes

Animal prints continue to be a hot design this season, popping up on skirts, bathing suits, dresses and, of course, shoes! Dr. Martens has just released a great line of leopard and zebra print shoes. Choose from the Dr. Martens 1461 ‘Made in England’ faux leopard pattern and zebra hair shoe, which both have the classic ‘Bouncing Sole’ construction, 3-hole laces, and rounded toe.

The Dr. Martens collection is called the “Animal Pack” and will be available soon through Doc Martens retailers.

The Doc Martens 3989 Brogue and Saddle Shoe

This collection was part of a recent tradeshow presentation in Paris. This classic-looking collection consists of a dressy-looking Doc Marten Brogue that is even great with a suit in the office, while the Docs Saddle Shoe is made for a night out on the town. Both shoe styles offer some casual appeal as they feature a rubber outsole.