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The most recognized canvas sneaker in history delivers unmatched style versatility and gym credibility at a low price, but zero arch support and a narrow, thin-soled build punish long wear.
The All Star debuted in 1917 as one of the first mass-produced basketball shoes. Charles "Chuck" Taylor, a player who joined Converse as a salesman and clinician in the 1920s, suggested tweaks and built the shoe's reputation on the road; his name was added to the ankle patch in 1932. As basketball moved to leather sneakers, the canvas Chuck found a second life in punk, skate, and music scenes, becoming a cultural staple far beyond the court.
Not really. The regular Chuck Taylor has almost no cushioning and a paper-thin insole, and owners report foot fatigue after a few hours of everyday wear. Aftermarket insoles help, but the Chuck 70, with its OrthoLite insole and thicker canvas, is the real comfort fix; buy the 70 if all-day comfort matters more than the lowest price.
They run about half a size large, so size down 0.5 from your usual shoe size. The midfoot is narrow and wide-footed buyers consistently struggle. Converse makes the Chuck 70 in a wide last, so if you choose between the All Star and the 70, wide feet should go for the 70 wide and order from a store with easy returns.
Excellent for deadlifts and squats. The flat 0mm heel-to-toe drop gives direct ground contact, which lifters value, and the minimal cushion keeps you stable under load. The regular All Star is actually preferred over the 70 for lifting; it stays a low-key everyday shoe, so buy the standard version if you want one pair for the gym and casual wear.
The regular All Star typically lasts 6-12 months of daily wear before sole separation or canvas holes appear, and buyers complain that pairs do not last long under heavy use. The Chuck 70 lasts noticeably longer thanks to reinforced foxing tape and heavier 12-ounce canvas; if you wear them daily, buy the 70 and rotate with another pair to stretch lifespan.
The Chuck 70 is the better shoe for almost everyone. The roughly $25 premium gets an OrthoLite insole, thicker canvas, and meaningfully longer lifespan, and the common advice favors the 70 over the standard All Star. The exception is lifters who want the flattest possible sole; buy the regular version only if a gym-first flat shoe is the priority.
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Chuck Taylor All Star guide
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Converse Chuck 70
If you want the same silhouette with real cushioning and better durability.
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