I’ve heard about Converse Sneakers for a long while, but never actually thought to purchase a pair before the COVID pandemic. However, last spring right before the lockdowns started to happen, these Converse sneakers happen to be in a store that I frequent. So, I thought I’d give them a try.  

I was mildly surprised about how comfortable they felt when I first put them on. My shoe size fluctuates between a 7.5 and 8. Since I was able to try on both, I ultimately decided to purchase the size 7.5. The pair that I purchased were a light denim colour, Chuck Taylor low tops with padded tongue.  

Here’s a little history about Converse sneakers…

Converse started making their basketball shoes in 1917. They were redesigned in 1922 when Chuck Taylor (American basketball player) made some specific requests. The added signature ankle patch branded the sneakers as “Chuck Taylor All Stars”.

This sneaker has been on the market for over 100 years!! The look of Converse sneakers has remained relatively the same – a stitched upper portion, white rubber toe cap, and brown rubber sole. Although there are leather versions available, the cotton canvas ones remain just a popular as ever.

Characteristics of Converse

Converse sneakers have a classic and timeless appearance. The shoe even from a distance is very recognizable. There is simply no mistaken this sneaker.  

They’re great for all ages.  They are designed for babies, kids, women and men. You can find it in all the basic colours, plus an assortment of prints and patterns that are on point and trend.

Durability of Converse 

Most of my usage in the last year has been indoors. I wear them 2-3 times a week and alternate them between my other sneakers which I will also blog about in another post.

Converse seem to wear quite well. The shape of the sneaker remains just as they were when I first purchased them. I always untie my laces before putting them on, so I have been able to maintain the integrity of the heel support of the sneaker.

The back heel sole area doesn’t appear to be worn down. The cotton canvas upper looks pristine – a bit dirty but that is to be expected.

Comfort of Converse

When I work in the hospital, my job allows me to sit a fair bit. I estimate that I am on my feet walking around 30% of the time, standing on my feet about 10% of the time, while the rest of the time I’m sitting at a computer typing, reading, charting and talking on the phone.  

Since walking isn’t the main activity I do, these sneakers are comfortable. I would say that if you have a wide foot, the regular fit may be a tight squeeze for you. Definitely look for a wide width if you need more room. My feet are average width, and they were perfect with regular socks. If my feet were wider or if I needed to wear thick socks, then I’d want a wide width sneaker.  

My pair I purchased padding in the tongue of the shoes, while I have seen Converse that don’t had this padding. I quite like the padding actually. 

If I had to do a substantial amount of walking, I might want to insert an insole for the arch area. There isn’t much of one in the sneaker itself. I’ve read reviews where people who have little to no arch support don’t find these comfortable to wear when walking for long extended periods.

Shoe Profile

I have two pairs of Converse sneakers. One is the regular low top and the other is a platform low top. Both are equally comfortably. However, I did find that it took a little bit longer to get used to and break in the shoe with the platform. Simply, the bottom of the shoe is thicker, so it’s going to take some time to get them into that “worn feeling”.

Maintenance of Converse

I haven’t tried washing mine yet. I would presume that they wash quite well given that they are cotton canvas. I’ve seen Youtube videos about washing Converse canvas and they seem to turn out well. Given that they are cotton, it’s probably best not to wash in hot water in case the cotton shrinks. Soap and water seem like the way to go should I feel that need to wash them at some point.

Price Point

They are quite affordable even if you are going for leather or fashion-forward pair. You’ll find them on sale from time to time. Many different stores carry them so that makes Converse relatively available. Limited editions ones aren’t something that I would consider wearing to the hospital setting but if you are a sneakerhead, those might be of interest to you.  

Overall Recommendations

Since wearing them for just over 1 year now, I would give a positive recommendation for any health care professional looking for a pair of sneakers to wear to work. They are comfortable, durable, stylish, and at a reasonable price point.

They work well with scrubs, a pair of jeans, a summer skirt and even with a pair of shorts. These are really versatile.  

Slightly Petite, Wendy