Converse All Star Skate Sneaker Review: Unfiltered Truth
Like me, you probably have tried skateboarding or longboarding with your normal sneakers or running shoes. Unfortunately, my experience was not very good as my feet kept slipping off the board. Even worse, I had to stop longboarding for a while because I had sprained my ankle.
From that day on, I have always made sure to wear the right skateboarding and longboarding sneakers. This is because the best shoes are made with durable and flexible materials that can resist the daily wear and tear of riding. In addition, they are designed to offer the necessary grip, support, and control vital for these activities.
So then, is the Converse all star skate sneaker good for skateboarding and longboarding? The answer is yes. The sneaker is the best in design, style, and aesthetics, materials used to make it, comfort, and fit. Another thing that makes it the best for these activities is its performance in terms of padding, grip, stability, and control.
Now, with longboarding gaining popularity, having the right shoe is critical for maximum comfort, durability, and protection. This is because you may have to spend long periods standing on your board, whether cruising or downhill riding.
But wait, there’s more! So, I suggest you stay right here. Because in this Converse All-Star Skate Sneaker Review, you will discover why the shoe is the best for longboarding.
Is Converse All Star Skate Sneaker A Best Choice?
Converse has a reputation for making durable and versatile footwear that you can wear for many activities. In the following discussion on the Converse all-star skate sneaker review, I will explain why Converse shoes are the best for skateboarding and longboarding.
1. Design
The sneakers are designed with a classic rubber toe cap for enhanced durability. And on the inner side, they have two holes to allow ventilation. Besides that, you can get shoes either in low, mid, or high-top designs for added stability.
See also: Are Vans Skate Shoes Good for Longboarding?
On the other hand, they boast a rubber outsole with rubber-backed suede, leather, or canvas upper, ensuring durability. That said, some sneakers boast a single-star logo on one or both sides. Others have the star logo on the side and at the back or on the tongue and heel.
In addition, the sneakers are designed with poly-cotton lace for longevity. They also come equipped with a CX foam sock liner, padded collar, and tongue to keep your feet cushioned.
2. Materials
Below, I will discuss what materials the upper, midsole, and outsole of the Converse skate sneakers are made of.
Upper sole
The Converse skate sneakers upper are made of high-quality rubber-backed canvas or suede. However, some sneaker styles are made of rubber-backed leather and nylon.
The benefit of these materials is that they are highly resistant to wear and tear. Therefore, they can withstand the demands of longboarding. Additionally, the materials are relatively flexible despite the rubber backing, ensuring unparalleled comfort. This also allows for quicker break-in times.
Even better, the Converse skate sneakers, made of leather and nylon, boast water-repellent properties. This is to ensure you are comfortable all day long, especially when longboarding in wet conditions.
See also: How Do I Choose the Best Longboarding Shoes?
In addition, the suede, canvas, and leather fabrics are breathable. This helps keep your feet dry during long longboarding sessions.
Midsole and Outsole
Both the midsoles and outsoles are constructed from CX rubber materials. For enhanced durability, the soles are sealed to the sneaker’s upper through a process called vulcanization. The process involves attaching the rubber midsole to the upper at high heat of around 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps ensure the soles don’t easily separate from the upper.
The benefit of the rubber midsole is that it is slightly thicker than normal for superior durability and cushioning. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about the impact on your feet and joints when longboarding. The rubber midsole also provides a supportive fit for your feet by distributing pressure evenly. This helps minimize the risk of foot injuries.
On the other hand, the rubber outsole helps protect the sneakers from damage while offering excellent traction. Consequently, this enables you to maintain control of the longboard deck.
See also: Is Converse Good for Skateboarding? Expert Analysis Inside
3. Comfort and Fit
When it comes to the comfort of these skate sneakers from Converse, they are great for the following reasons.
Cushioning and Support
The Converse skate sneakers utilize one of the best insole technologies. Simply, they feature a dual-density Ortholite sock liner with an open-celled polyurethane design.
However, some Converse skate sneaker models boast a CX foam sock liner, which is a single-density polyurethane. These sock liners are designed to offer the utmost cushioning and support on and off the board.
Breathability
The upper also boasts some degree of breathability. This is thanks to the side ventilation holes included and the quality of the materials they are made of. In addition, the tongue boasts breathable elasticized mesh for improved comfort.
Fit
The canvas, suede, or leather upper of the sneakers is soft and flexible. This allows them to conform to the shape of your foot, ensuring a comfortable and snug fit. Consequently, this helps prevent longboard and skateboard-related injuries.
However, the sneakers are not true to size. They are designed to fit bigger than your normal shoe. Therefore, you may have to order half a size up for a comfortable fit that is not too tight.
Additional Features
The sneakers feature adjustable cotton-polyester laces that combine a durable weave and subtle elasticity. Therefore, you can quickly adjust the shoe’s fitting for a custom fit. This helps keep your feet locked in and secure while skateboarding.
See also: Cupsole VS. Vulcanized: Which Skate Shoe Reigns Supreme?
4. Performance
I believe those who use Converse have no objection to its performance. But, for those who want to know the performance of skating sneakers, here are the performance facts to look at.
Padding, Grip, Stability, and Control
The Converse longboarding shoes are equipped with padding on the collar and tongue. This padding prevents rubbing around the ankle and the top of your foot while providing extra cushioning.
In addition, the sole is made of high-quality rubber designed to offer excellent grip on all skateboard decks. The sole boasts a tread pattern comprising small, multi-directional patterns and deep grooves. This unique tread pattern ensures superior grip, stability, and control during longboarding.
Additionally, the shoes have rubber toe caps that offer amazing control and additional grip. This feature comes in handy when performing kickflips and other toe tricks, preventing your foot from slipping off the board.
Different Longboarding Scenarios
Overall, Converse skate sneakers perform well when longboarding downhill or during freeriding. This is because of its excellent flexibility, stability, grip, and control.
The outsole offers great grip, which is essential for maintaining control, whether longboarding downhill or freeriding. Meanwhile, the shoe’s upper materials make it very flexible, allowing good foot movement and additional control.
Factors Impacting the Shoes’ Performance
The terrain or surface conditions may impact these sneakers’ performance. For example, if the terrain is very smooth, you will need shoes with more grip. On the other hand, if the surface is rough, I would suggest a more durable sneaker.
Your skill level may also affect these shoes’ performance. For instance, as an experienced skater, you would need sneakers that offer a combination of better stability, grip, control, flexibility, and comfort. But as a novice, you may be more concerned with the fit and comfort of the shoes.
Another factor is the shoe’s fitting. If you don’t choose the right size sneaker, it may not offer maximum comfort and support during longboarding.
5. Style and Aesthetics
As a footwear enthusiast, Converse never disappoints me with its style and aesthetic. It is because they implement all the necessities shoe enthusiasts want.
Color Scheme, Design, and Branding
The Converse skate shoes are available in many color schemes, over 50, and designs. These range from black and black monochrome to navy, white, red, purple, optical white, orange, and charcoal. So, regardless of your preferences, you can find a design that complements your personal style.
Regarding the branding, you will find it subtle. The sneakers feature an iconic Converse logo on the shoe’s side with a classic style. Generally, the logo comprises a 5-pointed white star enclosed within stitched borders.
But on some models, the logo appears discreetly on the sneaker’s heel or tongue. Thanks to its timeless style, the logo also adds to the overall aesthetic of the sneaker.
Apart from a few limited editions, most sneaker styles feature an all-white midsole with a black stripe running around. This feature is part of the classic Converse design.
See also: Ultimate List of the Best Skate Shoe Brands
Suitability
The beauty of the Converse skate sneakers is that they come in many colors and designs to help customize your look. Therefore, regardless of your personal style, you will be sure to find a design that matches it.
In addition, the sneaker’s classic design adds a functional and stylish touch to any longboarding gear. Therefore, you can use them with more technical gear or even casual streetwear.
Additional Factors
Apart from the availability of many color options, the limited-edition releases may also impact the sneaker’s style. By owning a pair of limited-edition releases, you can set yourself apart from other longboarders. This is because the releases usually feature distinct colorways and materials not available in the regular lineup.
The Ups and Downs of Converse Sneakers
Everything has its advantages and limitations. Here you can look at the pros and cons of the different types of skate sneakers from Converse. I suggest you check them out before making your purchase.
Low Top Converse Sneakers
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Allows the ankle to move more freely. | Minimal ankle support and protection. |
| Easy to slip on and off. | Not suited for longboarding in wet conditions. |
| Cooler to wear in hotter months. | |
| Lighter in weight. | |
| Matches with a variety of outfits and styles. |
Mid-Top Converse Sneakers
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers extra ankle support than low cuts. | May feel a little more restrictive than low tops. |
| Ideal for wearing in many weather conditions. | Offers minimal support and protection than high tops. |
| Provides more padding for impact absorption than low tops. | |
| Excellent mobility without sacrificing protection. |
High-Top Converse Sneakers
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers the most ankle support, protection, and stability. | Less flexible than mid and low tops. |
| Can be used in a wide range of weather conditions. | Not easy to put on or take off like low tops. |
| Better durability. |
FAQs About Convers All-Star Skate Sneaker
Before I conclude this Converse skate sneaker review, I will respond to frequently asked queries regarding these longboarding shoes.
Is Converse All-Star Nike?
Converse and Nike are two different brands. However, Converse All-Star is a subsidiary of Nike. Nike bought Converse in 2003 for around 300 million dollars.
Is Converse a skate brand?
No, because it was not originally established with a focus on skateboarding. However, Converse has some of the best skating sneakers. For example, the Converse CONS are made exclusively for skateboarding.
Why are Converse sneakers so famous?
First, it is because of their simple yet versatile and timeless design. In addition, the sneakers are known for being lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. And compared to other designed sneakers, they are more affordable.
Is Converse One Star good for skating?
Although it is not made specifically for skating, you can still use it for casual skateboarding. The converse one star delivers the impact protection and durability required for skating. This is thanks to its leather or suede upper and rubber outsole.
Is Converse All Stars for skate shoes?
You can skate in Converse all-star shoes. However, these are not skate shoes. They lack enough protection, making them unsuitable for doing various flip tricks. In addition, they rip apart easily.
What’s more popular, Vans or Converse?
Vans is a more popular brand than Converse. Converse is rated number 831 in the Global list of Top 1,000 brands. On the other hand, Vans is rated number 16 in the Global list of top 100 brands. The ranking is by Converse and Vans customers.
Conclusion
If you are looking to improve your performance and comfort in longboarding, the Converse skate sneaker is an excellent choice. But do you know? First, it is because its rubber outsole is designed to offer superior grip, stability, and control on the board.
Secondly, the sneakers’ rubber-backed suede, leather/nylon, and canvas upper offer more flexibility for enhanced comfort. The upper also provides superior protection against impact when performing various skateboarding tricks.
Additionally, the Converse skate sneaker boasts a relatively thicker rubber midsole that offers cushioning for the feet. Therefore, you can use it to skate on different skating surfaces. The best part is that the shoe comes in many styles and designs to suit every rider’s personal style.
