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Converse Alternatives: Shoes That Look Like Converse But Better
When it comes to streetwear sneakers, nothing beats the all-time classic Converse Chuck Taylor All Star. Its simple and sleek design makes it so versatile that you can virtually rock it with anything from jeans to suits.
But let's face it — Converse sneakers are not very well made. Water seeping through if you walk in the rain. They lack arch support and the bottom of your foot hurts if you walk with them all day. Worse still, it falls apart after a year of wear.
Inspired by the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, some fashion brands offer sneakers that look like Converse but go one up on the Converse sneakers in terms of quality.
If you are looking for a better converse alternative, here's my handpicked list for you.
Shoes Like Pottery 01JP High Sneaker
Shoes Like Pottery 01JP High Sneaker
With the only embellishment being the rubber seal stamp on the outsole, Shoes Like Pottery takes a minimalist approach to the 01JP High Sneaker. Comes with hand-sewn canvas uppers and kiln-fired vulcanized rubber soles, the timeless shoe is an epitome of traditional Japanese craftsmanship at its finest.
As a side note, Shoes Like Pottery 03JP Sneaker is a better alternative to Vans Authentic if you are also a fan of Vans sneakers. Check out my post best Vans alternatives.
PF Flyers Centre Lo
PF Flyers Centre Lo
Features a durable canvas upper and a rubber outsole, PF Flyers Centre Lo is inspired by Converse and is better constructed.
Though it's not as sleek as the Converse All Star, the Posture Foundation's signature Ridge Wedge insole makes the Centre Hi really comfortable.
Founded in 1937 in the USA, PF Flyers was once acquired by Converse in 1972 and finally fell in the hand of New Balance in 2001. P.F. Flyers Centre Hi is a solid choice if you are looking for a comfortable Converse All Star alternative.
Universal Works X Novesta Star Hike
Universal Works X Novesta Star Hike
Another collaboration from Universal Works, but this time with the Slovakian footwear brand Novesta. Crafted with cotton canvas uppers, Universal Works X Novesta Star Hike featured Novesta's moulded vulcanized midsole to provide extra comfort and durability.
Novesta Star Dribble
Novesta Star Dribble
Found in 1939 in Slovakia, Novesta is one of the few shoemakers that still keeps its production of shoes only in Europe.
Constructed in a cotton canvas upper, a rubber shell toe, and vulcanized natural rubber sole, Novesta Star Dribble comes with a much cleaner design and a superior construction than the Converse All Star.
Spalwart Special Mid
Spalwart Special Low
Inspired after a visit to an old factory in Slovakia, Sweden-based label Spalwart made shoes on vintage molds with a retro aesthetic in mind. Features durable rubber outsoles combined with canvas uppers, Spalwart Special Mid is a well-made Converse alternative that comes with a vintage style and a contemporary edge.
Diemme Loria Low
Diemme Loria Low
Handmade in Italy with a contemporary minimalist finish, the Diemme Loria Low is basically a luxurious version of the Converse All Star with a stripped-down design. Diemme finishes off Loria Low with full grain deer leather uppers and vulcanized rubber soles, adding a touch of elegance to the silhouette.
Golden Goose Deluxe Brand Francy Leather High Sneaker
Golden Goose Deluxe Brand Francy Leather High Sneaker
Italian label Golden Goose skilfully distressed Francy Leather High Sneaker and remade the classic silhouette with a worn-in look. Made in Italy with leather uppers and lining, Francy Leather High Sneaker is a perfect choice if you want to level up your game in street style sneaker.
Check out my Golden Goose sneakers review for more details.
Maison Margiela Stereotype High Sneaker
Maison Margiela Stereotype High Sneaker
Made in Italy and printed with a definition of a stereotype on the side, Maison Margiela Stereotype High Sneaker features topstitched canvas and a sturdy white rubber toecap and sole. It's not cheap for a pair of canvas sneakers, but you get a timeless design from one of the most renowned high fashion labels.
Visvim Skagway Hi Canvas
Visvim Skagway Hi Canvas
Combining canvas uppers with a leather tongue, Visvim Skagway Hi Canvas is a stripped down version of the Converse All Star with a hand-sewn woven brand tab that embellishes the low-key sneaker style. It's a nice pair of canvas shoes to own, the only problem with it is the price.