"The Converse All-Star debuted in 1917 as an athletic sneaker. It quickly became the number one shoe for basketball...," (Ferro). From originating in the basketball world to becoming the official training shoes of the army, Converse shoes have developed into a lifestyle shoe. Originally founded in 1908 by Marquis Mills, the Converse Rubber Shoe Company manufactured rubber soled footwear (Foreman). It was not until Charles 'Chuck' Taylor took over marketing in 1921, that a new style was in place and sales boomed (Foreman). While no longer in the basketball or military world, Converse have quickly become a staple in today’s fashion world. Despite poor arch support, Converse shoes are practical for ONU students looking for an extra pair of shoes
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Alli Davis, a student at Olivet, has experienced their great durability. She got her first pair of Converse when she was nine and currently owns three pairs. She has had her current pairs for the last six to seven years and recommends them to other students. On the other hand, a podiatrist from the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute, Dr. Megan Leahy, states that Chuck Taylors “are flat shoes and offer minimal arch support or cushioning,” (Cave). Dr. Leahy does not believe Converse are good shoes for the feet and especially not for students with foot problems. She even suggests placing a foam insole in the shoe for arch support (Cave). In 2015, Converse added a new style of shoes, called the Chuck II, with a bouncy foam, making the shoes more comfortable and supportive (Lorenzetti). However, these shoes are priced $15 more than the classic shoe. While more supportive shoes are available, they are more expensive, which may not appeal to students.
Overall, Converse shoes are worth their price. Despite the positive and negative aspects of the shoes, they are a popular fashion trend. While Converse are not for people with foot problems, they are durable and last a long time. Converse are useful, especially for ONU students looking for another pair of shoes. Their diversity of products available, accessibility and price, and trendiness demonstrate their quality and
Alli Davis, a student at Olivet, has experienced their great durability. She got her first pair of Converse when she was nine and currently owns three pairs. She has had her current pairs for the last six to seven years and recommends them to other students. On the other hand, a podiatrist from the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute, Dr. Megan Leahy, states that Chuck Taylors “are flat shoes and offer minimal arch support or cushioning,” (Cave). Dr. Leahy does not believe Converse are good shoes for the feet and especially not for students with foot problems. She even suggests placing a foam insole in the shoe for arch support (Cave). In 2015, Converse added a new style of shoes, called the Chuck II, with a bouncy foam, making the shoes more comfortable and supportive (Lorenzetti). However, these shoes are priced $15 more than the classic shoe. While more supportive shoes are available, they are more expensive, which may not appeal to students.
Overall, Converse shoes are worth their price. Despite the positive and negative aspects of the shoes, they are a popular fashion trend. While Converse are not for people with foot problems, they are durable and last a long time. Converse are useful, especially for ONU students looking for another pair of shoes. Their diversity of products available, accessibility and price, and trendiness demonstrate their quality and