Can You Run in Converse All-Star Sneakers? (6 Important Criteria)

Many people enjoy Converse sneakers because they’re versatile, stylish, and comfortable. But as an avid runner, you may be wondering, can you run in Converse All-Stars?

You can run in Converse shoes, but they are a bad choice for running because they don’t offer enough arch support, air flow, heel drop, or cushion. Running in shoes that lack these features can cause lasting foot problems and significant discomfort. You should not run more than a mile in Converse unless you wear the Run Star Motion style.

Keep reading to learn all about running in Converse sneakers, including the overall design, safety, and functionality of these shoes and why you shouldn’t use these sneakers for long-distance running. 

can you run in converse

Is it okay to run in Converse Sneakers?

Converse Sneakers are a versatile shoe option for many types of activities. However, these sneakers do not make good running shoes.

Lower body injuries are common for runners who use shoes with flat arches like Converse sneakers. If you wear shoes with arches, you will be less likely to trip or roll your ankle. Wearing shoes with arch support can also protect your heels from absorbing too much of the impact caused by each stride.

Most running injuries involve the lower body. For instance, 50% of lower body injuries for runners happen to the knees, 39.3% to the foot, and 38.1% to the upper leg. 

With that said, if you wear Converse Sneakers and need to sprint for any reason, don’t worry too much about it. Running short distances won’t affect your ankles as long as you are conscious of how your feet land during exercise. 

Most Converse styles are great for some exercise situations but not running. However, Converse recently released the Run Star Motion CX Platform, which offers improved arch support. So can you run in Converse Platform shoes? The jury is still out, but this new design is the brand’s attempt to enter the world of running shoes.

Are Converse Sneakers considered running shoes?

Most Converse styles are designed for fashion and comfort. For example, when people think about Converse, they are usually thinking of the All-Star style. These are also called Chuck Taylors (or Chucks for short).

The Converse All-Star design hasn’t changed much over the last one hundred years and was originally developed as a basketball shoe. Compared to today’s shoe technology, it is not a particularly good basketball shoe, nor is it good for running due to its comparative lack of support, cushioning, heel drop, or breathability.

Converse produces a few sneakers that are made for activities like hiking, running, or long walks. Some Converse sneakers are running shoes, but the majority you’ll see in the store are for fashion and comfort. 

Running shoes need specific design features if you want to have a  safe workout session. Otherwise, you could cause severe damage to your ankles. If you plan to take up long-distance running, you should really invest in a quality pair of running shoes. Don’t skimp on shoes and wear something with as little support as Converse All-stars! It can really put you at risk of injury.

Ergonomics and design

A great running shoe has design features that help you during your run. A few examples of ergonomics and design features you should look for include the following:

Ergonomics and Design Features for Running Shoes
Ankle Support
Arch Support
Flexibility
Airflow
Absorbancy
Traction

Converse Sneakers are missing quite a few of these necessary design qualities. For example, Converse Sneakers are not breathable, flexible, or absorbent and don’t have great traction or arch support. 

That means not only will running in Converse put a lot of tension on your feet and ankles, but you will also be uncomfortable throughout the workout. During cardio workouts like running, you’re going to work up a sweat, and you need shoes that are vented to feel comfortable. 

Safety

Whether you’re running outside or inside, you need traction on the bottom of your shoes to avoid slipping. It is easy to slip during your run and become injured without good traction. 

The tread on the bottom of Converse Sneakers is not the worst option, but it doesn’t hold up during running or in outdoor weather conditions. Running shoes also minimize injuries by providing great support, traction, and flexibility, but Converse Sneakers don’t supply these safety features. 

Running shoes typically have a more protruding tread to help you avoid situations where wet pavement might cause some nasty slips and falls. Converse Sneakers have a flat tread design that works great for walking but not for running. It would be better for you to look to brands like Hoka or Brooks for quality running treads.

Cushion

Many people believe that more cushion in running shoes will reduce the stress of running impact. However, you must balance too much and too little cushion, or you could worsen your impact.

Most Converse styles, including the Chuck Taylor, do not have enough cushion to reduce running impact. However, the Converse Run Star styles have a good amount of cushion for running. 

Too much cushioning in your running shoes can stiffen your legs and impair your movement. On the other hand, a lack of cushion in your running shoes can cause lasting damage to the arch of your foot. 

Heel drop

When looking for a good running shoe, you’ll want at least a 10 mm heel drop because many runners have the bad habit of landing heel-first. Although, if you land on the middle portion or ball of your foot first, you’ll want less than a 6 mm heel drop for your running shoes. 

Most Converse Sneakers have a 0 mm heel drop, making them a poor option for runners. 

Running shoes with the right heel drop are ideal for keeping the strain on your feet at a minimum while you run. 

Are Chuck Taylor's good for running?

Materials

Runners need shoes that vent well, are flexible, and can wick moisture effectively. Most running shoes are made from nylon because this material does a great job serving those purposes. 

Converse are usually made from rubber and cotton. These materials will trap your sweat and make you uncomfortable while you run. 

Common fabrics for modern running shoes include the following:

Common Fabrics for Modern Running Shoes
Nylon
Polyester
Spandex
polypropylene

Durability

Durability is an important factor to consider as well. Your running shoes will endure a lot, and you need shoes that can accommodate that. 

Converse Sneakers are durable shoes that are crafted from strong materials. These shoes are great for walking and performing daily errands because of their durability. 

Despite their durability, all other factors make these shoes a poor choice for running. However, they will not fall apart easily during your workout. 

can you run in converse all-stars

What kind of activities do Converse sneakers handle best?

While Chucks are not good for most athletic pursuits, they are a staple in many closets. What activities suit these comfortable sneakers best?

Converse sneakers are an excellent option for people looking for stylish shoes to wear throughout the day. While these shoes don’t work well for running, they can be worn casually or to the gym, as they provide a flat surface that’s good for lifting weights. 

These shoes are also a great choice if you’re taking a walk around the neighborhood. However, if you’re on your feet all day and wear Converse sneakers, your feet and legs may hurt at the end of the day. 

Can you run in Converse All-Stars?

While you can run in Converse All-Stars (also known as Chuck Taylor’s), I wouldn’t recommend it. They simply don’t offer enough arch and heel support to protect you from injury on long-distance runs.

How do Converse All-Stars Rank in terms of the 6 criteria mentioned:

Ergonomics & Design: Poor
Safety: Poor
Cushion: Poor
Heel Drop: Poor
Durability: Above Average

Can Converse be used for the gym?

Because of the flat soles, Converse All-Stars make great gym and weightlifting shoes.

Is Converse good for walking?

Converse All-Stars can be used as casual walking shoes, but if you plan to walk or hike long distances, you’ll probably want more arch support.

Does Converse make running shoes?

Converse has released a new shoe called the Run Star Motion CX Platform, which is being touted as a running shoe, but the jury is still out on its quality and performance.

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