Converse elevates the certified classic Chuck Taylor as part of the brand’s First String program and upgrades it inside and out with premium materials and technology.

The canvas has been beefed up to a sturdier textile reminiscent of workwear garments and lined with supple leather for next-to-skin softness. Everywhere else is similarly moved up a class, from the higher rubber foxing on the midsole walls, Vibram rubber outsole, and even thicker gauge thread on the laces. Some heritage nods to early editions of the Chuck Taylor appear in the form of the black ‘license plate’ on the heel and wide ankle tape. Comfort has also been updated for the nearly 120-year-old shoe by adding CX foam insoles paired with a Nike Air insert, plus an overall wider fit to give toes some wriggle room.

• Heavyweight canvas upper
• Leather lining
• Updated fit
• CX foam and Nike Air insole
• Vibram outsole
• SKU: A19930C