One of Japan’s most successful footwear brands is, paradoxically, not even native. Indeed, many remain unaware of the fundamental distinction between Converse and Converse Japan—that they’re two entirely separate entities operating under the same iconic name.

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Historical Context

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Converse US

The original Converse company, founded in the United States in 1908, went through financial difficulties and was eventually acquired by Nike in 2003 for US$305 million, operating under the Swoosh banner ever since.

Converse JP

Within Japan, however, the Converse brand is not under the aegis of Nike. Following Converse USA’s bankruptcy, a separate entity in Japan, the ITOCHU Corporation acquired the rights to produce and sell Converse products exclusively within Japan.

ITOCHU is a long-established trading house whose origins trace back to 1858 with founder Itoh Chubei’s foray into linen commerce. It has also subsumed Japanese denim specialist EDWIN under its umbrella, further alluding to its deep-rooted history and expertise in textiles—which would, by extension, play a role in the evolution of Converse Japan.

In the early days of Converse

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Key Differences

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Quality, Construction, and Materials

The generalization that “everything is better in Japan” may find validity within specific contexts or, at the very least, reveal distinct differences. In contrast to America’s fast-paced, hyper-consumerist ethos, Japanese aesthetic sensibilities often venerate the patina of age, valuing the intricate detail and accumulated history inherent in well-worn objects.

Although there are higher-grade Chuck Taylor models that exist within the US market, catering to a discerning clientele that prioritizes quality, Converse in Japan enjoys a distinct perception as a heritage brand. This perception profoundly shapes its operational philosophy.

Converse Japan employs a superior range of materials, utilizing a denser, more robust canvas, reinforced stitching, and demonstrably superior construction. These considerations and attention to detail is evident throughout their catalog. Features such as the React 2.0 insoles, for instance, demonstrably enhance the comfort and wearability of Converse Japan shoes, a contrast to the oft-cited discomfort associated with standard Converse models.

The BEAMS x Converse Leather All Star J Hi, distinguished by its high quality material and construction

Sub-Brands and Models

Converse Japan’s offerings transcend simple reproductions. Both produce classic silhouettes like the Chuck Taylor All-Star and Jack Purcell, but Converse Japan often releases unique designs, colorways, and collaborations that are not available in the US market. They also tend to focus more on vintage-inspired designs, reminiscent of Chuck Taylor’s golden era (1960s–1970s), and the employ of high-end materials like Vibram outsoles.

mastermind JAPAN x Converse Addict Chuck Taylor All Stars

Converse Japan also boasts a portfolio of over 20 sub-brands and models. At the vanguard is the Converse Addict line, which produces retrofitted and elevated interpretations of classic Converse silhouettes, followed by more specialized divisions like Converse Camping Supply, Converse Longlife, and Converse Tokyo, the last of which is a fully realized apparel line.

An extract from the Converse Tokyo x SKOOKUM lookbook

Pricing

Converse Japan products, especially the Addict line and “Made in Japan” models, are more expensive than Converse USA products due to the higher quality materials and manufacturing.

Availability

Converse Japan products are primarily sold within Japan. Obtaining them internationally often requires using proxy shopping services or online retailers specializing in Japanese goods.

The distinguishable “MADE IN JAPAN” heel of Converse Japan shoes

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TL;DR

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In summary, think of it this way: Converse USA is the global, mass-market brand owned by Nike, while Converse Japan is a separate entity focused on higher quality, more design-focused products for the Japanese market.

So, if you’re looking for a classic Converse style at an affordable price, Converse USA is readily available. But, if you’re seeking higher quality materials, vintage-inspired designs, and unique releases, Converse Japan is worth exploring, though it may require extra effort and expense to acquire their products.

To help you get started, here are a few Japan-exclusive collaborations you can consider:

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