Converse Addict, the luxury branch of Converse Japan, released a new range of high-end shoes on April 10. The collection features Italian suede loafers and canvas Chuck Taylors with Vibram MegaGrip soles. These items are exclusive to Japan, owned separately by Itochu from the Nike-owned Converse.
Converse Addict introduced grippy Italian soles, specifically the MegaGrip variation, on new Italian suede loafers and durable canvas Chuck Taylors. The Chuck Taylors draw inspiration from 1960s designs, including versions with extra plush leopard prints, reinforced toe caps, and cushy insoles. This marks a continuation of Converse Addict's use of Vibram soles, a feature present since nearly two decades ago when the label debuted. The release highlights differences between Converse Addict and the main Converse line under Nike. While Converse US relaunched its premium First String range last year with Vibram soles, Converse Addict's offerings remain superior in execution, such as its take on the loafer style. Converse Japan operates as a distinct entity under Itochu, limiting these elevated shoes to Japanese markets. Earlier Converse efforts, like the 1990s skate-coded One Star Loafer, predate recent hybrid trends but pale in comparison to Addict's latest. The new range underscores Converse Addict's focus on luxury sneaker craftsmanship.
