The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star is the one that started it all for Converse. When it comes to sneakers, there’s nothing more pure than a canvas upper and a vulcanized rubber sole. This is the sneaker that spawned countless imitators, with its star-centered patch, rubber toe cap, toe bumper and striping. WHY YOU SHOULD BE DOWN Canvas upper for lightweight, flexible comfort Rubber outsole for durable traction Medial eyelets enhance airflow CHUCK TAYLOR ALL STAR ORIGINS Created in 1917 as a non-skid basketball shoe, the All Star was originally promoted for its superior court performance by basketball mastermind Chuck Taylor. But over the decades, something incredible happened: The sneaker, with its timeless silhouette and unmistakable ankle patch, was organically adopted by rebels, artists, musicians, dreamers, thinkers and originals.