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Converse Reimagines Its Purpose-Built Skate Shoe with an Unexpected Makeover

The brand takes a walk on the wild side with the latest version of the AS-1 Pro, now outfitted in a striking, unanticipated material.

Close-up of a white leather sneaker with white laces against a blue background.Converse
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By Hayley Helms

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The Chuck Taylor All Star may be the most recognizable Converse silhouette around, but the brand offers a wide range of sport and lifestyle models that can hold their own.

One such sneaker, the AS-1 Pro skate shoe, originally designed by pro skater and architect Alexis Sablone, is already recognized as a top-tier skateboarding silhouette with excellent boardfeel, traction and durability.

Now, the ’90s-inspired style has a whole new look, courtesy of an unexpected material swap.

Off-white leather Converse sneakers with star logo on side placed on a beige tray table.
Technical features and textured leather bring fresh energy to this signature skate shoe.
Converse

Take a walk on the wild side

The Cons AS-1 Pro Ostrich Nubuck elevates the casual silhouette, blending innovative performance tech with an ostrich leather-inspired upper that brings a luxe feel to the skate favorite.

Off-white leather low-top sneaker with star logo and thick sole.
While true ostrich leather comes at a premium, this nubuck take on the distinctive material keeps the price point manageable while offering a unique look.
Converse

True ostrich leather is prized by luxury fashion houses for its incredibly soft feel, unique texture and excellent durability, but the exotic material comes with a premium reputation and price tag.

Skateboarder in a blue shirt and black pants performing a trick over a circular metal sculpture on a red base.
The new Cons AS-1 Pro Ostrich Nubuck, seen on its designer and pro skater Alexis Sablone, skates great and looks better.
Converse

To avoid wildly inflating the cost of its pro skate shoe while maintaining the distinct look of ostrich leather, Converse opted for an embossed nubuck upper in a monochromatic egret colorway, which maintains the quiet luxury look while using a more wallet-friendly cowhide.

Pair of off-white Converse sneakers with star logo and laces, shown from the back and side.
The monochromatic upper lets the texture take center stage.
Converse

As far as tech goes, the Cons AS-1 Pro Ostrich Nubuck features custom engineered coring in the cupsole for better cushioning, a herringbone-patterned outsole for enhanced traction and proprietary CX foam cushioning, tuned specifically for skating but even more comfortable for everyday wear.

Thanks to the tonal, textured styling of its new upper, plus upgraded materials underfoot, this signature skate shoe looks and feels better than ever.

Availability and pricing

The AS-1 Pro Ostrich Nubuck is available now on Converse’s website, retailing for $100.

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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