About
Converse is an American lifestyle brand specializing in footwear, apparel, and accessories. Founded in 1908 by Marquis Mills Converse as the Converse Rubber Shoe Company in Malden, Massachusetts, the company initially produced rubber-soled shoes and boots. During World War II, its production shifted to military footwear. Converse dominated the US athletic shoe market for a time, primarily through its iconic Chuck Taylor All-Stars, but faced competition in the 1970s and 1980s from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma, ultimately leading to bankruptcy in 2001. After a period under new ownership, Converse was acquired by Nike in 2003. The brand's history is intertwined with basketball, as Converse shoes were worn by legendary players, but it has also cultivated a significant presence in skateboarding and broader casual fashion. The company's product portfolio continues to expand, encompassing various sneaker styles and collaborations, and it maintains a substantial global presence.