Converse (brand)

Converse () is an American lifestyle brand that markets, distributes, and licenses footwear, apparel, and accessories. The company was founded by Marquis Mills Converse in 1908, originally as the Converse Rubber Shoe Company in Malden, Massachusetts. It was acquired by several companies before becoming a subsidiary of Nike, Inc. in 2003. Converse initially produced winterized rubber-soled shoes and boots. During World War II, it shifted manufacturing to make footwear for the military. Initially, it was one of the few producers of athletic shoes and dominated the U.S. market, but lost its position in the 1970s as competitors introduced their own styles. Converse's portfolio includes products under the Chuck Taylor All-Stars, Cons, Jack Purcell, One Star, and Star Chevron trademarks. It frequently collaborates on special-edition product releases with other brands, such as John Varvatos. The growth of Converse as a casual fashion accessory contributed to $2.4 billion in revenue in 2023.