Did you know that Converse Chuck Taylor has been around for over 80 years? The shoe model has gone through very few changes throughout the years.
When basketball started taking the east coast by storm, Converse began to cater to athletes. Converse would eventually team up with basketball legend Chuck Taylor to create the optimal shoe for the sport.
Since its inception in 1934, this unique piece of Americana has been synonymous with sports and youth culture. If you’re looking to get your hands on a pair, you may be wondering how do Converse fit? If so, keep reading!
Table of Contents
A Brief History of an Icon
These iconic shoes got their start in Massachusetts in 1908 from humble beginnings. At the time, Converse was a rubber company. They originally made goloshes but would gain notoriety for their flexible rubber soles.
It wasn’t until 1917 that Converse created something that resembled their iconic kicks. They were high-top sneakers known as ‘non-skids’ specifically designed for athletes.
The rubber sole and canvas top were a great alternative to the otherwise rigid shoes of the time. They quickly became basketball favorites.
In 1920, the non-skids were re-designed slightly and were renamed ‘All Stars’. These shoes were the first from Converse that was specifically for basketball.
Chuck Taylor, a semi-professional basketball player joined the company in 1921 which proved to be a key move. In 1922 he made some suggestions to improve the shoes and then by 1932 the shoes got altered to carry his name.
Fast forward to 1946, converse released a black version of the shoes. Keen basketball fans will also know 1946 as the same year the NBA started. With a neat new design, Chuck Taylors became a favorite within the league.
Nowadays, these shoes come in any color you can think of! Converse has come a long way since the 1940s. They’ve done collections with Green Day, Offwhite and Nintendo among many others.
Known for Basketball
Long before Nike’s Jordans, there were Converse Chuck Taylors.
Chuck Taylors, as previously mentioned, were perfected for basketball. When they were looking to delve into basketball, Converse hired Chuck Taylor as a salesman. Chuck was able to popularize the shoes within the sport.
A year or so later, Chuck would bring recommendations to make the shoes better for athletes. Converse was eager to establish itself as a go-to for basketball players. Naturally, they took the suggestions.
A couple of years later, Converse created a basketball team to promote their shoes. Of course, Chuck played an integral part in the team as the manager.
A Staple in Youth Culture
Converse Chuck Taylor took the world by storm soon after the 1940s. By 1960, even non-athletes were wearing them. Notably, both Elvis and James Dean wore them!
By the 1970s, music legends like Robert Plant and the Ramones had their own sets of Chucks. Unsurprisingly, this led to an uprising of youth wearing Converse.
Celebrities wearing Converse sneakers ended up being the brand’s best marketing. Even as trends changed, celebrities today still wear the iconic Chuck Taylor sneakers.
In the 1990s, Kurt Cobain rocked his chucks in almost every photo. With that kind of publicity, they solidified as a monument to the counterculture.
Chuck Taylor sneakers ended up being one thing youth had in common. No one would have expected the athletes and the burnouts to wear the same shoes. Converse had a way of bridging gaps like no other shoes ever had.
Even in the movies, all types were wearing Chuck Taylors. From sports movies like The Sandlot to cult classics like Rock n Roll High School, the heroes wore Chucks.
This mass appeal made it easy for any shoe store to want to carry them. They have been a guaranteed sell for decades and it shows no signs of slowing down.
How Do Converse Fit?
So, you’re looking to get your hands on this piece of American history? Great move!
Converse sizes run a bit large. It’s recommended to size down by a half size. If you’re looking for a snugger fit, you can try going down a full size as well.
While a lot of it is up to personal preference, it’s always best if your Converse fit snuggly. Especially if you intend on using them as running shoes!
Converse also comes in quite a few different styles these days. When buying converse, always make sure to check reviews first. Most retailers will have a section in reviews for how the shoes will fit.
This will make sure that you’re getting the best fit without trying them on first.
The good news is once you know your size for the classic Chuck Taylor style, you’ll know it for when you buy your next pair. There might be small variations between styles but the sizing is usually universal.
Converse sizing is also done in men’s sizing for the most part. If you’re more familiar with women’s shoe sizes, it’s best to check out a conversion chart.
Where to Buy Converse Chuck Taylor Shoes
Converse can be purchased at pretty much any shoe store. That said, most brick-and-mortar shoe stores won’t have a huge range of styles and colorways.
Even if you’re only looking for different colors you may run into some issues. Physical stores likely won’t have the full range of colors. You may not like waiting for the shipping time, but it’s worth it to get the shoes of your dreams!
Since Converse often comes out with new collections, it’s best to have a look at online stores. You can shop on KicksCrew to make sure you’re not missing any new releases.
So long as you’re exchanging currency and not stealing them, there’s no wrong way to get converse. Just know what you’re looking for and you’ll be all set!
What are You Waiting For?
Now that you know the rich history of Converse, what are you waiting for? These iconic shoes will go with any outfit! With this Chuck Taylor buying guide, you know how Converse fit and you’re ready to go!
Want to read more about fashion? Check check out our blog!