Expert Advice

Types of Converse: Our Favorite Styles Explained

May 15, 2023

Every true sneakerhead knows that Chuck Taylors are one of the most iconic staple sneaks of all time. So iconic, in fact, that some sneaker fans may not realize there are other Converse styles. For instance, what’s the difference between the Chuck 70 vs. Chuck Taylor All Star? Or between Chuck Taylor and Converse? We’re breaking it all down here, so read on to learn more about the different types of Converse shoes.

What's Up, Chuck?

So what exactly are Chuck Taylors? When most people think of Converse styles, they think of the Chuck Taylor All Star Classic — the one with the distinct All Star patch, vulcanized rubber toe, vintage vibe and unmistakable silhouette. They go with any outfit from men’s shorts and jeans to women’s dresses and skirts, making them one of the shoes for personal style, self-expression and outside-the-box fashion. Over the decades, this kick has experienced an evolution over the years, which includes a variety of different models, including the Chuck ’70s, which feature a thicker rubber sole than the OG.

Different Types of Converse

Have you ever wondered about the difference between Chuck Taylor vs. Converse? Allow us to tell you. Converse is actually the brand that invented the Chuck Taylor All Star High. And there are plenty more styles where those OG Chucks came from. Here are a few of our favorites:

Converse Run Star Hike

With the same upper as the OG Chucks, this sneak features a thick, platform sole with a rugged outer traction pattern. Swapping out the vintage sole and replacing it with the chunky version transforms the Converse Run Star Hike from a throwback basketball shoe to a high-fashion kick, making it one of the most versatile Chucks around. 

Run Star Legacy CX

This sneak features a few minor differences in the upper that separate it from OG Chucks. The Run Star Legacy CX builds on the bulkiness from the Run Star Hike and incorporates an added tongue tag that reads “Chuck Taylor.” It also boasts an exaggerated heel area as well as a rugged traction pattern on the bottom. The “CX” in the name is a callout to the CX foam within the sole, which makes the shoe extremely comfortable, much more so than the original Chuck Taylor.

Chuck 70 ATCX

Toning down on the bulkiness in favor of better wearability, the Chuck 70 ATCX has the exact same upper as the OGs, with a toe cap that wraps up onto the front of the sneaker. Plus, a diamond pattern on the sole gives the shoe an advantage when it comes to traction.

So the next time you’re ready to incorporate a little unique, vintage style in your wardrobe (or if you’re sneakerhead heart is simply singing for a new pair of Chucks), head into Hibbett | City Gear or shop online to pick the Converse styles that accentuate your style. And when you do pick out those new Chucks, head over to our blog for helpful articles like “How to Lace Your Converse Sneakers.”

Shop the Story