Brand Story
Converse is an American lifestyle brand that markets, distributes, and licenses footwear, apparel, and accessories. The company was founded by Marquis Mills Converse in 1908 originally as the Converse Rubber Shoe Company in Malden, Massachusetts. It has been acquired by several companies before becoming a subsidiary of Nike, Inc. in 2003. Converse initially produced winterized rubber-soled shoes and boots. During World War II it shifted manufacturing to make footwear for the military. Initially, it was one of the few producers of athletic shoes and dominated the U.S. market, but lost its position in the 1970s as competitors introduced their styles. Converse's portfolio includes products under the Chuck Taylor All-Stars, Cons, Jack Purcell, One Star, and Star Chevron trademarks. It frequently collaborates on special-edition product releases with other brands such as John Varvatos.
Timeline
- 1908
Founded in Malden, Massachusetts
Marquis Mills Converse opens the Converse Rubber Shoe Company.
- 1917
Chuck Taylor All Star debuts
Originally called the Non-Skid, this canvas basketball shoe becomes the bestselling sneaker in history.
- 1923
Chuck Taylor's name added
Basketball player Chuck Taylor's signature is added to the ankle patch after he becomes the brand's first athlete endorser.
- 2003
Acquired by Nike
Nike buys Converse for $305M, restoring the brand after Converse files for bankruptcy two years earlier.
- 2017
JW Anderson collaboration
Designer-led collab signals Converse's renewed fashion ambitions.
