Converse Revamps Its Legendary Sneaker

After nearly 100 years, Converse has decided to buck the original Chuck in exchange for an all-star revamp — the Chuck Taylor All Star II. Fans and media alike gathered in Boston, hometown of the century-plus old enterprise, for the unveiling of the refreshed sneaker and were treated to a wear test and demonstration by Converse’s Bryan Cioffi, the company’s vice president – creative director of global footwear.

If you weren’t one of the lucky 130 people who attended the sneaker launch, here’s the lowdown: The new prototype salvages everything that’s great about the old shoe (mainly the original design) while adding new technology to increase comfort. Converse personnel spent hours living alongside artists and musicians to ensure that the new Chuck Taylor met the demands of a creative lifestyle. Details include a Nike Lunarlon sockliner, nonslip padded tongue, microsuede lining and premium canvas.

Although the upgraded shoe stays true to the original Chuck Taylor, the exterior also received some upgrades, including high foxing, monochrome matte eyelets, tonal pinstripes and an embroidered All Star patch. The shoe retails for $70 and hits Converse retail stores, select retailers and converse.com Tuesday, July 28.

Fans of the original Chucks need not fret, however: Converse will also continue to sell the Chuck Taylor All Star I.