“The best ever, with tougher canvas and an extra layer of comfort.”
That’s how Converse describes their new-but-old Chuck 70, which is both an upgrade to and a reversal from the world famous Chuck Taylor All Star. With one hundred million pairs of All Stars are bought every year, the All Star might be the most popular sneaker of all time. So why does it need an upgrade — especially after Converse’s latest attempt to do so, the Chuck II, failed so disastrously?
The Chuck II may have damaged the brand, but that was an attempt to modernize the All Star. The Chuck 70 is an attempt to… “vintage-ize” the All Star, to make it more old fashioned, to bring it back to its roots. While the Chuck II had neon green, tons of padding, and other bells and whistles, the Chuck 70 tried to revert the sneaker’s recipe to the way it was made in the 1970s: thicker canvas, better support, fewer bells and whistles, no frills.
So did they succeed?
In this review we’re going to compare the All Star and the Chuck 70 by assessing:
- Chuck 70 vs All Star Aesthetic
- Chuck 70 vs All Star Material
- Chuck 70 vs All Star Sole
- Chuck 70 vs All Star Fit & Sizing
- Chuck 70 vs All Star Price
- 5 Reasons You Might Prefer the All Star
Let’s get started.
The sneaker has an Ortholite insole and winged tongue stitching that makes it very comfortable and durable. The star patch logo is iconic making this shoe a sure buy.
The Chuck Taylor All Stars is a classic, breathable canvas sneaker with a vulcanized rubber sole. Largely unchanged for almost 100 years, it is still a popular and stylish choice today,
Chuck 70 vs All Star Aesthetic
When comparing the Chuck 70 to the classic Chuck, it has:
- Thicker canvas = more structure
- Real leather patch
- Smaller toecap
- Thicker laces
- Higher foxing
- Glossier, tinted sole
- Extra stitching on midfoot
Some say the Chuck 70 modeled after the way All Stars were made before Nike bought them in 2003, but I owned Chucks before 2003 — my first pair was burgundy — and they were nothing like the Chuck 70. Indeed, it actually was in the 1980s that Converse changed a lot about their flagship shoe in response to increasingly high production costs.
That’s why it has much thicker canvas, but there are other differences that you might miss.
At first glance, they both look like the classic toe capped basketball shoe that was popularized in the 1920s, but the Chuck 70 is a little chunkier for several reasons: the canvas is thicker and more structured, the leather heel patch is real and three dimensional (unlike the screen printed patch on the All Stars), the toecap is a tad smaller, the laces are thicker, and the foxing is higher. The higher foxing is important. The term refers to the way sole extends up and onto the upper, providing more lateral stability.
The higher foxing is important. The term refers to the sole extending up and onto the upper, providing more lateral stability.
In addition to all these bulk-adding properties, the Chuck 70’s sole and toecap are also glossier and tinted ever so slightly off-white for an aged, vintage feel.
Adding to the vintage-ness is this more old fashioned “license plate logo” on the back of the heels and a name tag on the tongue of the Chuck 70’s right shoe.
Finally, the Chuck 70 has an extra line of stitching along the midfoot, which you can see below:
There are a few competing theories as to what it’s for:
- To keep the sole from splitting at the toebreak — something All Stars always do after a few months of wear.
- To keep the two layers of canvas together, because Chuck 70s are actually comprised of two thick strips stitched together.
- To provide lateral support and rigidity to improve performance on the basketball court.
Personally, I’m positive that the stitching is just to keep the separate layers of canvas together.
[Don’t miss my other All Star comparison of Converse vs Nothing New]
Chuck 70 vs. All Star Canvas
All Star
- Cotton canvas
- Under 12 ounces
- Unstructured, light
Chuck 70
- 12 ounce canvas
- Substantial
- More structured
Both shoes are made with canvas, which is densely woven cotton, but they differ significantly in thickness.
All Star’s upper is light like a tote bag, lighter than any pair of jeans you’ll buy.
Chuck 70s, at 12 ounces, have much thicker canvas.
You can tell just by looking at them: the All Stars are floppy, while the 70s have more shape to them.
Chuck 70 vs. All Star Sole
Chuck 70
- One piece of rubber
- Glossy faux patina
- Foxing runs over top of canvas
- Better arch support
All Star
- 3 pieces of rubber
- Both shoes made from vulcanized rubber
- Harder and flatter; better for lifting
Both soles are made with vulcanized rubber, although the Chuck 70’s outsole is one piece of rubber whereas the All Star’s outsole is actually comprised of three.
As mentioned above, the 70’s siding runs a full 5 millimeters over the top of the canvas, which should reduce the odds of holes forming at the toe break and provide extra lateral stability.
[Don’t miss my full review of the original Converse Chuck Taylor All Star!]
If you know much about powerlifting, you know the All Star is the most famous shoe for squats and deadlifts because the base is so hard and stable, which is ideal when you’re holding heavy weight. The All Star is better for lifting weights because the Chuck 70 has a lot more cushion to it — meaning the average non-lifter will probably prefer the Chuck 70.
The All Star is better for lifting weights because the Chuck 70 has a lot more cushion to it — meaning the average non-lifter will probably prefer the Chuck 70.
The Chuck 70’s extra softness comes from an Ortholite insole, which is made from a kind of open-cell polyurethane that both absorbs shock and has built up arch support. If your feet get sore without much support, pick the Chuck 70s. They’re the most comfortable construction of the classic design to date, and they’re more comfy than the ill fated Chuck II, which was almost too squishy.
[Looking for a luxury sneaker? Check out the very Italian Koio Capri]
Chuck 70 vs. All Star Fit & Sizing
All Star
- True to size
Chuck 70
- Side down half a size
Sizing is controversial with Converse. My true size is 11.5; I used to size up to 12 with my All Stars, now I wear them true to size, and some guys size down half a size for a more secure fit. (I’d recommend this if you’re wearing them to work out.)
With the Chuck 70, I’d actually suggest sizing down half a size. My own are 11.5, my true size, and they fit fine, but there’s a crucial difference between the Chuck 70 and the All Star: heel slippage.
There’s a crucial difference between the Chuck 70 and the All Star: heel slippage.
The All Star is much stiffer around the heel, whereas the 70 has a little extra canvas on the heel but it’s not as good at gripping the heel as the All Star. So it’s more important you have a secure, correct fit with the Chuck 70. Both shoes run a little big, but that matters more with the Chuck 70.
Chuck 70 vs. All Star Price
All Star
Chuck 70
A thirty-dollar difference is more than fine with me. Almost every single thing about the Chuck 70 is better than the All Star, although…
5 Reasons the All Star Is Better Than the Chuck 70
This isn’t to say the All Star is definitively better, but here are a few reasons why you might prefer the All Star.
- The Chuck Taylor All Star is the most iconic sneaker in the world. It’s the sneaker. Over a billion of them have been sold. Then again, I might argue that if you’re attracted to the rich history of the shoe, the Chuck 70 does a better job of embodying that heritage, given that’s the way the shoe was made when it made its bones.
- The All Star is $30 cheaper. But the Chuck 70 will last longer than the All Star, more than making up for the price. (With regular wear, I’ve found the All Star falls apart after a year or so.)
- The All Star is lighter.
- The All Star is better for lifting weights. Again, this is because of the harder, more stable base. If you prefer arch support, go for the Chuck 70.
- The All Star has a wider range of colors and patterns. There are literally thousands of colors and patterns available for the All Star, from covered-in-glitter to the American flag. Combine that with the fact that the sole is whiter on the All Star and you’ve got a shoe that some feel is better for expressing their creativity.
Chuck 70 vs All Star: The Verdict
The Chuck 70 has thicker canvas, higher rubber foxing, better cushioning, improved arch support, and greater durability.
The All Star is cheaper, available in more colors, lighter, and better for lifting weights.
Those are the most important takeaways. For my money, the Chuck 70 is far and away the better shoe and it’s more than worth the extra money.
FAQs Chuck Taylor 70 vs Chuck Taylor All Star:
What is the difference between Converse All Star and Chuck Taylors?
'Converse All Star' and 'Chuck Taylors' are different names for the same shoe.
Are Chuck Taylors and Converse the same thing?
Converse is the company that makes Chuck Taylors. There are two main types of Chuck Taylors, the Chuck Taylor All Star and Chuck Taylor 70.
Which Converse are the most comfortable?
The Chuck Taylor All Star are more comfortable than other Converse sneakers, but if arch support is important, go with their Fastbreak Pro Leather sneaker.
Why does it say Chuck Taylor on Converse?
Converse makes the Chuck Taylor sneaker. Chuck Taylor was a famous basketball player who co-branded the sneaker in the 1920s.
What does the star mean on Converse?
Converse wanted a simple logo that represented being an All Star Player, as in a very good basketball player.
What is the difference between Converse and Chuck Taylors?
Converse is the name of the company that makes the Chuck Taylor, like Nike is the brand that makes Air Jordan sneakers.
Why are Converse called Chuck Taylors?
Chuck Taylor was a famous basketball player in the 1920s, who co-branded with Converse to release the sneakers. Converse named the sneaker after him, much like Michael Jordan has the Air Jordan sneaker.
Are all Chuck Taylors the same?
No there are different types of Chuck Taylors. For example, there are the Chuck Taylor All Star, the Chuck Taylor 70s and the Chuck II.
Does Converse own Chuck Taylor?
Yes, Converse makes Chuck Taylor sneakers. Converse is owned by Nike.
What are the most comfortable Converse?
The most comfortable Converse sneaker is the Converse Chuck Taylor 70 because it has better cushioning and improved arch support. If shock absorption is more important, consider their skater-focused Fastbreak Pro sneakers.
Which Chuck Taylors are most comfortable?
The most comfortable Converse Chuck Taylors are the Chuck 70 because it has better arch support and more cushioning in the sole.
Are Converse Chuck 70 comfortable?
Yes, Converse Chuck 70 are comfortable because they are have a lot of cushioning in the insole and have more arch support relative to the All Stars.
Nick English
Hey Nick,
This is very detailed review of both Converse. Just wondering, this shoe being such a iconic versatile and linked with American history..is there any age related social restriction, like Converse should be worn only by teens or something? I have seen many folks in different age groups in Converse and it seems fine. What is your opinion, thats something Id be interested to know.
That’s an interesting question! I think converse shoes are fine on older guys – I don’t like Adidas or New Balance on older dudes but I think Converse works for any age.
hey! a couple weeks ago i saw an older dad (40s) wearing some sick classic converse playing in a band (electric guitar) and he looked pretty cool.
To be honest old people in converse are pretty cool. this shoe honestly has no age limit, and that’s stayed true since i was in elementary till now.
if i saw an older person or mid-aged person wearing converse out on the street i’d think they’re pretty cool. and i think that is a mutual feeling amongst teens and young adults who are converse-wearers.
-highschooler
i am 55 and wore them in jr high gym class and now wear them w/my sport coat
get more compliments than when i wear $800+ bruno maglis
get them in all colors – wear them every day
Fantastic, and they’re probably more comfortable than those dress shoes too, right?
I’m surprised you said the 70 was more comfortable than the Chuck II. Respectfully I strongly disagree. The II’s lunarlon was more comfortable than any other Chuck I’ve ever tried. And the shape gripped the foot better. I find the 70s way WAY too rigid. I tried so hard to like them, as I think they look nicer (except for the gloss that to me ruins the look and makes it look more like a shoe than a sneaker. And I don’t remember ANY Chucks having gloss in the 70s. Unnecessary.) Any I’ll stick with the classics for now.
Maybe my vast boot experience makes me prefer stiffer sneakers, Joe? 😉 I think stiffness can feel supportive and protective in footwear, but I totally (and equally respectfully!) understand your position!
Hello, I personnally have a chuck 70 and a all star pair. The all star is more confortable for me because the toecap is bigger ! My big toe made a hole ine the Chuck 70’s inner canvas… So maybe i should try a bigger size for the chuck 70…
Oh that’s good to know about the bigger toe cap affecting comfort, Thomas – thank you
I RECALL, BACK IN THE 60’s, I USED TO BUY MY CONVERSE ALL-STARS FOR $12.00. SHOES OF THE STARS! I NEED A WIDE TOE BOX, SO THE ALL-STARS ARE IT FOR ME. I WEAR THEM PLAYING BASKETBALL WITH MY SON AND GRANDSON.
GREAT STUFF LLOYD
Haha. I remember my mother freaking out about spending $13 on a pair of Pro Keds in the 70s, which I wanted desperately.
I wear All Stars all the time and just ordered a pair of Chuck 70s. I really dislike the smaller toe cap and shiny finish of it. Also the sole of the sneaker kind of curves over the top of the shoe which I also don’t like. I’m returning the Chuck 70s and sticking with the All Stars. I hope to god they don’t stop manufacturng the All Stars or I’ll have to go barefoot.
I prefer the bigger toecap too but it’s hard to say no to the other advantages, in my opinion!
Thanks for this comprehensive review Nick! My daughter wears the all star high tops almost exclusively. As her current pair are barely hanging on, we went out tonight to get her a new pair. She immediately noticed that the new pair had some sort of synthetic lining instead of the canvas lining she knows and loves. Her current pair are about a year old. Are you aware of a design change over the past year? She’s a creature of habit and didn’t want to get that particular pair of chucks and I need to know if we just came across some odd model or if she needs to just suck it up.
I know that feeling of being committed to Chucks! I haven’t heard of a new lining, are you sure it’s the original Chuck Taylor or Chuck 70? There are a million variations out there
Uh..did you mean to say the all star is more durable than the 70? Cuz, no.
I didn’t! Thanks for pointing that error out, fixing it
I loved reading your article Nick. Very informative. I remember watching your video on YouTube awhile back and wanting those same exact pair of the Chuck 70’s but I could never find the same grey color way. What version of “grey” are those? I’m hoping to grab a pair if I am able to find one in my size. I love that shade of grey.
I think they discontinued it! It was called Egret.
Thanks for your article.. it’s helped me realise that unfortunately Chuck 70s are just not for me. I had two different pairs of Chuck 70s but I didn’t realise all the differences between them and my All Stars. I wanted to love them, really I did, but the stiffness of the thicker canvas constantly rubbing against my heel (and not really improving with time as it didn’t really stretch), combined with my squashed-in toes resulted in me having to give up and give both pairs to my sister. (Last Friday I literally rage quit and gave them to her straight off my feet.. my pinky toe was raw! XD)
You mentioned in your article to size down half a size for Chuck 70s… I could barely stand them true to size; I can’t imagine going smaller!
I’m sad cos I did want more support for my feet because sometimes it feels like I’m walking barefoot on cement when I’m in All Stars (I do own a pair of All Stars with OrthoLite soles, though, and they are super comfy) but I actually think maybe my feet are just not built for Chuck 70s. ^^;
Hey I’ve done my job if I’ve helped you make a decision, even if it’s ultimately to not buy them!