The Converse All Star Pro BB 'Black' represents a pivotal moment, marking Converse's strategic re-entry into the competitive world of performance basketball. Designed with the modern athlete in mind, it seamlessly merges the iconic design language of Converse, including nods to the legendary Chuck Taylor, with cutting-edge Nike technology. This fusion was orchestrated by Eric Avar, a prominent figure in Nike's design team, known for his innovative work on several Kobe Bryant signature models, solidifying its place in basketball history.
Primarily engineered as a high-performance basketball shoe, the All Star Pro BB 'Black' also caters to the demands of casual wear, its design versatility allowing for seamless transitions. The full-length Nike React drop-in midsole delivers a responsive and firm ride, ensuring optimal court feel and responsiveness. The diamond-edge pattern on the translucent rubber outsole offers a balance of traction, excelling on clean courts but potentially faltering on dustier surfaces, showcasing its dual-purpose functionality.
The All Star Pro BB 'Black' has made a definitive impact, its presence amplified by several key figures. Kelly Oubre Jr. was instrumental in the initial launch of the All Star Pro BB in New York City in April 2019, showcasing the shoe's debut to the media. Further cementing its status, Oubre Jr. was seen again at Paris Fashion Week in June 2019, as part of the debut of the Pigalle x Converse All-Star Pro BB, highlighting its integration into high fashion and broader cultural relevance. The shoe's minimalist design, spearheaded by Eric Avar, also contributed to its influence.
The 'Black' variant of the All Star Pro BB features a high-top silhouette built with a single layer of Nike Quadfit mesh, enhanced by strategically placed TPU overlays for added support. Canvas elements are incorporated, paying homage to the classic Chuck Taylor, while a translucent rubber outsole underscores the shoe's performance-driven design. The design philosophy, a minimalist approach, was masterfully executed by Eric Avar, ensuring a balance of form and function.