Converse Shoes: Classic Sneakers That Work With Everything
Converse shoes have anchored DSW's sneaker wall for decades, built around the canvas Chuck Taylor All Star. The Chuck Taylor All Star, offered in both high top and low top, remains the brand's signature silhouette. Shoppers come to this page for canvas basics like the Chuck Taylor, plus thicker-sole updates such as the Chuck 70. Compare Converse against the rest of the sneaker wall to see how canvas construction differs from mesh and knit running styles.
Silhouettes and Styles Worth Knowing
Converse makes the Run Star Hike, a chunky-sole sneaker with a lugged rubber outsole that adds more height than the standard Chuck. Canvas is the classic upper material, but leather and suede versions show up in select colorways for a sturdier build. Shoppers who need a gendered sizing run instead of the standard unisex fit should check the size chart before ordering, since Converse numbering doesn't match typical athletic shoe sizing.
Platform styles add roughly an inch of height without changing the shoe's core silhouette. Low tops work well in warmer months. High tops add ankle coverage for cooler weather and all-day wear.
Choosing the Right Pair for Your Rotation
Converse sneakers run true to a unisex sizing chart, so first-time buyers should check the brand's specific size guide rather than assuming their usual athletic shoe size applies. Canvas uppers stretch slightly with wear, so a snug fit out of the box often loosens within the first few weeks. Shoppers who want more cushioning for standing or walking should look at the Chuck Taylor All Star Move, which adds a thicker foam midsole. Past-season colorways often drop in price as new releases arrive, so checking back can turn up a deal on a classic style.
FAQ
What kind of shoes does Converse make? Converse makes canvas and leather sneakers, including the Chuck Taylor All Star and Run Star Hike, along with platform and slip-on variations.
Do Converse shoes run big or small? Converse shoes generally run about a half size large, so most shoppers size down from their standard sneaker size.
Are Converse sneakers good for everyday wear? Yes. The canvas Chuck Taylor holds up across regular wear once the upper breaks in, and shoppers who want more arch support should choose the Chuck Taylor All Star Move for its added foam cushioning.