Converse Just Unveiled Its Most Sustainable Sneaker to Date

One of the most iconic sneakers in the world just got a super sustainable makeover. Launching next week, the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Crater uses recycled polyester and post-industrial textile waste scraps to reinvent the 100-year-old classic style in a modern and sustainable way.

As part of Converse’s Renew initiative signalling the brand’s commitment to a waste-less future, the All Star Crater draws from parent company Nike’s Space Hippie collection of shoes created from scraps or “space junk,” while still preserving the classic sneaker’s DNA. More than 100 people collaborated to create the Converse All Star Crater sneaker, figuring out how to mould “Crater Foam” to the classic Chuck shape, developing unique uppers using recycled materials, and reconceptualizing the use of some of its most fundamental components.

“A lot of times we think about materials at their inception, but what about all the materials that already exist? Could we look at those just the same, and really embrace the value that those can still hold?" asks Jessica L’Abbe, Converse’s Senior Director of Colour Materials Graphics, in a statement explaining the design process.

Using existing materials to create a new articulation of the Chuck Taylor All Star, the Crater uses at least 40 percent recycled content by total weight, making it one of Converse’s most sustainable sneakers to date. The Crater Foam sole uses 12% Nike Grind rubber for a more sustainable, lightweight and responsive feel during all-day wear, while the canvas uppers (in three different colour ways) put old materials to new use.

“We call it emotional innovation,” explains Brandon Avery, VP of Global Innovation for Converse. “For example, if we reuse a material, something that’s already had a journey and a life, there’s a really interesting story to tell—trash becomes treasure.”

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Crater releases July 23 and will be available for purchase at Converse.ca.