Converse has just announced that Converse First String, the sub-label founded in the early 2010s as a creative playground for experimental projects, has designed a Chuck Taylor with Air technology.
The Result: a timeless design with the familiar comfort of Nike, but at a price.
First Chuck Air
In an era where low-profile, sleek sneakers are winning over chunky designs (except for the Jellyfish, that is), this new Converse design is perfectly timed. Although the Chuck Taylor has never really disappeared from the radar, the model has now received a small boost.
Plenty of reason to create a version that’s even more comfortable than its predecessor.
The updated First String Chuck Taylor combines the classic silhouette with modern techniques and materials. The sneaker features a Vibram sole for extra grip and traction, CX foam, and, as the biggest highlight, the addition of Nike Air in the sole.
“It’s not about re-releasing archive models purely for their history,” said Matt Sleep, Design Director of Collaborations and Special Projects at Converse.
“It’s about celebrating iconic silhouettes like the Chuck Taylor by studying their purest forms through the decades, and then thoughtfully upgrading them into something wearable, relevant, and hopefully desirable today.”
The first release comes in four colorways that combine a second sneaker trend: animal prints. The first colorway uses faux hair, followed by a brown leather variant, a cream version, and one with a tropical design.
Release
A striking fusion of two of the biggest icons in sneaker culture. With a price tag of €250, this Chuck is among the most expensive ever. Whether the upgrades are worth the investment remains to be seen, though I’m secretly excited.
The release is scheduled for September 16, 2025, at Converse, although a release in the Netherlands may take a little longer. Check out the official images of the first colorways below and keep an eye on the Sneakerjagers news page for updates on this (and other) releases.
This Chuck Taylor, designed by the sub-label Converse First String, is the first Converse sneaker to use Nike’s famous Air technology.
