The history of Converse – sneakers that never go out of style

Few footwear brands can maintain their popularity for more than a century, but Converse has done just that. What started as a sneaker in a Massachusetts rubber factory has become an iconic piece of global street fashion and self-expression.

The story of Converse is not just about the evolution of a brand, but also about how a simple canvas shoe became a cultural symbol for generations – from basketball courts to concert stages to fashion runways.

The beginnings: when the rubber met the track

The Converse Rubber Shoe Company was founded in 1908 in Massachusetts, USA. It originally manufactured rubber-soled shoes and rain boots, but quickly recognized the growing demand for athletic footwear.

In 1917, something that changed the world of sneakers forever was born: the Converse All Star – the first shoe designed specifically for basketball. Canvas upper, flexible rubber sole, high shaft – it was considered groundbreaking technology at the time.

Chuck Taylor – the name everyone knows

In 1921, Chuck Taylor, a young basketball player who not only promoted the All Star but also actively participated in its development, joined the company. The version that was released as the Chuck Taylor All Star in 1932, adorned with his signature, is associated with his name.

Converse became the most popular shoe in American basketball from the 1930s onwards, and for a long time, more than 90% of NBA players wore them.

From sport to style – the pop culture revolution of Converse

Although Converse first became known as a basketball shoe in the first half of the 20th century, it quickly grew beyond the world of sports and became a global style icon. In the 1970s and 80s, the brand became closely intertwined with the punk and alternative music movements: bands such as the Ramones and later Nirvana, as well as iconic artists such as Kurt Cobain, wore them, thus embodying the rebellion, uniqueness and desire for freedom of an entire generation.

However, the shoe has not only become a musical symbol, but also a kind of blank canvas for lovers of self-expression: fans have been painting, scribbling, riveting or sewing their Converse shoes for decades, making each pair a unique work of art.

Since the 2000s, the brand has gained new momentum, collaborating with streetwear brands, artists, and influencers. The classic, clean, and unisex design has become especially popular with the TikTok and Instagram generation, who combine a retro vibe with a modern, personal style.

Unisex, evergreen, infinitely adaptable

You may ask: Why does it never go out of fashion? There are many reasons for this, but these are the most important:

• A simple shape that goes with everything
• Unisex design – men, women: works for everyone
• DIY & unique style – these are the shoes you make for yourself
• A timeless silhouette that goes just as well with jeans as it does with a skirt or suit

The secret to Converse's success lies in its minimalism. The clean, canvas upper and rubber toe are a timeless design that hasn't gone out of style for decades - and never will.

image source: converse.com, mrporter.com