It has been a minute since Converse updated its iconic Chuck Taylor All-Star shoes, well, actually 98 years. The popular footwear have been found beneath some of the most important pop-culture figures over the last century, from famous basketball players like Dr. J to former President John F. Kennedy. For nearly 100 years, the design has served itself well since Indiana’s Chuck Taylor first improved the shoe as a Converse salesman.
But times change and your company gets bought by Nike. With the visuals largely going unchanged, Converse is finally bringing some of the technology pioneered by its Beaverton, Oregon parents to the iconic Chuck Taylor All-Stars.
The biggest change comes from the sole of the shoe, which will be inheriting Nike’s Lunarlon technology. An upgraded sock liner improves the cushion and arch support on the shoe. This light and springy material will enable Chuck Taylor lovers to enjoy the shoe for longer periods of time. Other internal improvements include a perforated microsuede interior and foam padded tongue for improved breathability and comfort around the ankle.
Converse has mostly left the exterior design alone, with some subtle improvements throughout. The primary material remains to be canvas, with subtle visual upgrades. A fully embroidered All Star patch and monochrome matte eyelets for the shoe strings highlight the changes.
The upgraded Chuck II will be available in stores on July 28th with a slight bump in price up to $75 for the high-tops, while the low cut model will retail for $70. Converse will continue to sell the original model for the time being.
Source: Bloomberg Business
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