Converse is reinventing itself in 2020.
Last week, Converse unveiled the CX toolkit, a reimagination of the basic fits, forms, sizes and functions that have been signature to the footwear maker, and powered by material innovation.
The CX toolkit is built to provide “superior comfort,” Converse said, and will inform its footwear design going forward.
“CX allows Converse to create more functional, stylish and comfortable footwear than ever before,” vice president of global footwear Brandis Russell said in a statement. “In time, we plan to integrate its elements into every footwear product we make.”
CX will be defined by three new material innovations: CX stretch canvas, CX foam and a new rubber outsole design.
CX stretch canvas is designed to adapt to the wearer’s foot for improved “on-off wearability,” Converse said, while CX foam is the result of pairing a single-density polyurethane (PU) insole with a lightweight phylon midsole for added impact absorption and long-term comfort.
The new rubber outsole design aims to provide additional flexibility and durability, Converse said.
“We’ve always been a progressive brand, but as we enter a new decade we see an incredible opportunity to push the boundaries of our own design and product ethos,” Phil Russo, global vice president of design and innovation at Converse, said.
The toolkit will first be utilized in three new designs that will be released throughout the year. On March 19, the All Star Disrupt CX will showcase the “future-forward” design of the Converse’s new direction through the classic Chuck Taylor All Star silhouette.
Converse is also prepping to release the Chuck Taylor Disrupt CX, a low-cut canvas slip-on with a “radical design language” and an exaggerated heel counter. The Chuck Taylor All Star CX will round out the new styles with upgraded canvas, foam and transparent foxing to bring attention to the CX foam midsole.
On March 12, Converse released a collaboration with streetwear innovator TakahiroMiyashita TheSoloist. The two have designed a limited-edition of the All Star Disrupt CX in black and white, targeting the release for the designer’s spring show in Paris.