By Armando
The stuff of teenage rebellion and rock ’n’ roll is now more comfy.
The Chuck Taylor, one of the world’s most iconic shoes, got a redesign as Converse unveiled today the “Chuck II” at a press conference in South Boston.
If you ever owned one, you probably are thinking this redesign is long past due. With all the advances in sneaker technology, the shoes haven’t changed much in 98 years. Additionally, it has been somewhat challenging to wear while doing any sort of athletic activity.
So it’s no surprise that the upgrades are on the interior, while keeping the same classic look that made it a fashion icon as its forebear. The redesign includes a foam padded collar, perforated micro-suede liner and a new “Lunarlon Sockliner” that adds cushioning and arch support. A lot of these technologies came from Nike, which bought Converse in 2003 for $305 million.
And there’s also the name change to Chuck II. Named after the Indiana basketball star, “Chuck Taylor” was the first to get his name on signature sneaker shoes when it came out in 1917.
“The launch of Chuck II is a groundbreaking moment for Converse as we continue to move the brand forward through creativity and innovation, ushering in not just a new sneaker, but a completely new way of thinking,” Jim Calhoun, president and CEO at Converse, said in a statement.
Here it is, the Chuck II:
Available later this month, the sneakers will be $70 and $75 for low-tops and high-tops respectively, and will be available in black, white, red, and blue when they launch next week.
