Nike-owned Converse marked the debut of its Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II with a global launch in its hometown of Boston. Converse President and CEO Jim Calhoun led the presentation to more than 130 members of the media and special guests on Thursday at Cruiseport, a World War I era warehouse in South Boston.
During the presentation, Converse Vice President and Creative Director of Global Footwear Bryan Cioffi demonstrated the sneaker’s new performance features. Richard Copcutt, vice president, general manager of Converse All Star outlined how the Chuck Taylor All Star II was designed to meet the demands of wearers with a creative lifestyle.
The updated sneaker features key hallmarks of the original, including a statement embroidered All Star patch, monochromatic matte eyelets and tonal pinstripes, with the added benefit of Nike technology. The shoe combines Nike Lunarlon sockliners for improved fit and arch support with a nonslip padded tongue, super soft micro-suede lining and premium canvas. The new and improved sneaker, offered in black, white, red and blue, lands in stores on July 28. It retails for $70-$75.