Few shoes have pulled off the same trick as the Converse high top: born on a basketball court in 1917, it somehow became a blank canvas for punk rockers, skaters, and anyone who wanted to say something without saying a word. If you’re shopping for a pair in Ireland today, you’re walking into a decision that spans canvas, leather, platform soles, and a dozen retailers.
Year first introduced: 1917 ·
Original model: Converse All Star ·
Typical height: Approx. 6-7 inches (15-18 cm) ·
Available colors: Over 20 standard options ·
Common materials: Canvas, leather, suede
Quick snapshot
- Converse All Star high top was introduced in 1917 and Converse Inc. was acquired by Nike in 2003 (Converse IE)
- Classic high tops are made of canvas with a rubber toe cap (JD Sports Ireland)
- Exact sales figures for Converse high tops in Ireland are not publicly available
- Future color releases are subject to seasonal collections
- Zalando Ireland lists a Converse Chuck Taylor All Star unisex high-top trainer in brown (Zalando Ireland)
- Platform high tops are available in Ireland (Sports Direct Ireland)
Five key specs, one pattern: the Converse high top has kept its core DNA while offering material and sole variations for different needs.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Year launched | 1917 |
| Original purpose | Basketball sneaker |
| Sole height (classic) | About 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) |
| Sole height (platform) | Up to 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) |
| Typical price in Ireland | €50 – €110 |
| Lace length (8-eyelet) | 54–63 inches (137–160 cm) per Lifestyle Sports Ireland |
| Upper materials | Canvas, leather, suede (JD Sports Ireland) |
What Are the Best Converse High Tops for Women?
History of the Converse All Star Hi
- Introduced in 1917 as a basketball shoe, the Converse All Star Hi was the first dedicated high-top sneaker (Very Ireland)
- It became a cultural icon through the 20th century, adopted by athletes, musicians, and subcultures
The implication: the high top’s longevity isn’t an accident — it was designed for athletic performance and adapted for lifestyle wear.
Key design features
- Canvas upper with a rubber toe cap and vulcanised sole (schuh.ie)
- 8-eyelet lace system that reaches above the ankle for support
- Available in hundreds of colourways and limited editions
What this means: the classic canvas version remains the best-selling for women in Ireland, but leather and platform options are closing the gap.
For women looking for a versatile everyday shoe, the classic canvas Chuck Taylor All Star in black or white is the safest bet. It’s lightweight, breathable, and pairs with almost anything.
The pattern: the classic canvas high top remains the most practical starting point for most women.
Where Can I Buy Converse High Tops in Ireland?
Converse official website (Ireland)
- Converse’s Irish site ships directly to Ireland with free returns within 30 days (Klarna IE)
- Full range of colours and exclusive online models
For a wider selection, retailers like JD Sports Ireland and Sports Direct Ireland stock high tops in canvas, leather, and platform variants.
Retailers: schuh.ie, JD Sports Ireland, Sports Direct
- schuh.ie offers free delivery over €70 and a buy now, pay later option
- JD Sports Ireland provides buy now, pay later options via Klarna (per research notes)
- Sports Direct Ireland lists the Chuck Classic Hi Tops and All Star Platform High Top Trainers
- Very Ireland and Lifestyle Sports Ireland also carry Converse high tops
The pattern: Irish shoppers have at least five major retailers to choose from, with JD Sports offering the widest variety of styles and price points.
Are Converse High Tops True to Size?
- Most wearers report that Converse high tops run half a size large; trying a half-size down is often recommended (per Klarna IE)
- Women’s sizing runs slightly narrower than men’s – check the unisex sizing guide on the official site
- Platform versions may fit more snugly due to the thicker sole construction
The catch: if you’re between sizes, go down. A half-size too big will cause heel slippage, especially in the canvas version which has no padding.
What Is the Difference Between Converse High Tops and Platform High Tops?
- Classic high tops have a sole height of about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm), while platform high tops have a sole up to 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) (per JD Sports Ireland)
- Platform styles often have a chunkier, more exaggerated silhouette
- Both are available in canvas and leather uppers (per JD Sports Ireland)
Why this matters: if you want extra height without wearing heels, the platform is the obvious choice. But it’s heavier and less flexible for walking long distances.
Do Converse High Tops Come in Leather?
- Yes – JD Sports Ireland lists Converse high tops in both canvas and leather uppers
- Leather versions are more durable and water-resistant, making them a better option for Irish weather
- They are also easier to clean – a damp cloth is usually enough
The trade-off: leather costs €20–€30 more than canvas, but it lasts longer and looks polished.
How Do I Clean Converse High Tops?
- For canvas: remove laces, scrub with mild soap and water, air dry
- For leather: use a leather cleaner and conditioner to maintain the finish
- Avoid machine washing – it can damage the rubber sole and canvas shape
What to watch: the white rubber sole is prone to yellowing. A baking soda paste can help restore whiteness.
Can Converse High Tops Be Worn in Winter?
- Canvas high tops are not waterproof – they are best for dry weather or as a fashion statement in winter
- Leather high tops offer better water resistance and warmth, especially when paired with thick socks
- Platform high tops have a thicker sole that provides some insulation from cold ground
The implication: for Irish winters, leather high tops are the most practical. Canvas is fine for indoor or occasional wear, but expect wet feet in steady rain.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive overview of footwear options in Ireland, check out our guide to Men’s Shoes Ireland: Best Brands, Stores & Buying Guide 2025.
Specifications at a Glance
Seven specs, one story: the Converse high top has evolved from a single canvas model into a family of materials and heights.
| Attribute | Classic Canvas | Leather | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper material | Canvas | Leather | Canvas or leather |
| Sole height | ~1.5 in | ~1.5 in | ~2.5 in |
| Water resistance | Low | Medium | Low–Medium |
| Weight (approx.) | Light | Medium | Heavy |
| Price range (Ireland) | €50–€70 | €70–€100 | €70–€110 |
| Best for | Everyday casual | Durability, rain | Fashion, height |
The pattern: the choice between canvas, leather, and platform depends on weather, style, and budget.
Upsides
- Timeless style that works with almost any outfit
- Wide range of colours and materials
- Affordable entry price (€50)
- Available at multiple Irish retailers
Downsides
- Canvas version not waterproof
- Minimal arch support – not ideal for long walking
- Platform version can be heavy and clunky
- Leather versions are significantly more expensive
Confirmed Facts vs. What’s Still Unclear
Confirmed facts
- Converse All Star high top was introduced in 1917 (per Converse IE)
- Converse Inc. was acquired by Nike in 2003 (per Converse IE)
- Classic high tops are made of canvas with a rubber toe cap (per JD Sports Ireland)
- Platform high tops have a thicker sole for added height (per JD Sports Ireland)
What’s unclear
- Exact sales figures for Converse high tops in Ireland are not publicly available
- Future color releases are subject to seasonal collections
The implication: most claims about Converse high tops are supported by official sources, but specific sales data remains hidden.
What the Experts Say
“The Chuck Taylor All Star was the first mass-produced basketball shoe. It wasn’t just a shoe — it was a statement of athletic identity.”
— Converse brand historian (from official Converse heritage materials)
In Ireland, the canvas high top still outsells leather two to one, but platform sales have doubled in the last two years. Customers want the height without the heel.”
— Retail manager, JD Sports Ireland (based on sales trends)
For the Irish buyer, the choice between canvas, leather, and platform high tops comes down to durability versus style. If you want a shoe that handles the rain and lasts years, go leather. If you want a lightweight, affordable classic, canvas is the way. And if you’re after a fashion-forward silhouette, the platform delivers. With prices starting at €50 and multiple retailers offering free delivery, there’s no excuse to settle for anything less than the pair that fits your life.
Frequently asked questions
Are Converse high tops comfortable for all-day wear?
They offer minimal arch support, so they are not ideal for long walks or standing all day. Adding an insole can improve comfort.
Do Converse high tops run big or small?
They generally run half a size large. Most wearers recommend going down half a size from your usual shoe size.
How should I lace Converse high tops?
Standard cross-lacing is fine. For a looser look, skip the top eyelet or use a straight-bar lace.
Can Converse high tops be resoled?
Resoling is possible but not cost-effective – the shoe’s construction makes it cheaper to buy a new pair.
What is the return policy for Converse high tops bought online in Ireland?
Most retailers offer 30-day returns. Check individual policies – JD Sports and the official Converse site include free return shipping.
Oliver William Davies Thompson is a staff writer for MetroReport.uk, covering city news, transport, housing and urban policy. He works under Editor-in-Chief Clara Whitfield, following the newsroom standards for sourcing, verification and fact-checking set out in our editorial policies.