But, even though it’s busy around here, blogs still have to get written, especially if we want to continue to showcase all of our amazing inventory. So, without further ado, we present the latest looks in the Converse CONS skateboarding line.
Converse launched its skateboarding program in 2009 under the "CONS" name. Brand ambassadors like Kenny Anderson, Anthony Pappalardo, Nick Trapasso, Sammy Baca, Ethan Fowler, Raymond Molinar, and Rune Glifberg helped push the line in a major way.
Whether you are a skater or sneakerhead, the Converse CONS line has what you are looking for this holiday season, especially if you’re looking for a pair or two of comfortable, affordable, durable, and timeless shoes.
First off, the Converse One Star Low Top Leather White/Black is about as universally pleasing as the Converse CONS line of skate shoes gets:
While the Converse One Star Low Top Nubuck Thunder/Ash Grey/Gum comes in a close second for blending in with just about anything you already own:
This neutral grey is also featured on the Converse Star Player Low Top Workwear Canvas Charcoal/Jute, which is a CON/skate shoe with a bit of a twist. The upper is made of workwear canvas—a durable, rip-resistant material. These shoes fit more like a classic skateboarding shoe and offer additional ankle support, a sleek look, and Lunarlon insoles for comfort.
Then, there’s the Converse Tre Star Low Top Suede Black/Black. Made with suede and leather, they also sport the basket weave white sole and are perfectly lightweight. Perfect for skateboarding days.
Next up, Converse CONS low-tops get a bit brighter with the Converse KA3 Low Top Sand Dune/Rubber.
And a bit more premium with the Converse One Star Low Top Premium Leather Black/Sand.
Another play on the classic One Star style, this pair of kicks has received a major upgrade with its premium leather fabric. These guys feature a slick leather exterior that gives the shoe more durability but also a dressy look. Combined with Lunarlon insoles for comfort and classic Converse outsoles, this shoe is perfect for skating in the fall or winter, as well as a night out for New Year’s Eve.
Finally, if you’re looking for a bit more oomph than what the low-tops can offer you, these mid-tops might just be the perfect fit for you.
The Converse One Star Mid Top Pro Side Black/ White feature a mid-height that is not quite as restrictive as the classic high-tops while adding some much-needed ankle support. They also feature Lunarlon insoles, suede outers for durability, and the classic Converse outsoles:
We also love them splashed with colour, as seen on this pair of Converse One Star Mid Top Pro Suede Navy/White.
Finally, we must point out the slickness of the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Street Hi Top Roadtrip Blue/White.
With reinforced ankle bands for added support, extra canvas stitching for increased durability, classic white rubber Converse outsoles, and some really hip straps, these burly blues are the ultimate in street style.
What to Look for in a Skate Shoe
Shoe companies that manufacture skateboarding shoes have gone out of their way to design something that makes the activity easier. So what makes a skate shoe a skate shoe? Here’s what to look for in your next pair:
1. Vulcanized rubber or polyurethane soles
2. Minimal tread pattern or no pattern at all
3. Composition leather or suede uppers
4. Double or triple stitching to extend the life of the upper material
5. Low, padded tongues for comfort
6. Increased flexibility overall
7. Increased grip action
8. Plastic underlying the toe cap
9. Lace loops and protectors to extend the life of laces
Many of the things that make skate shoes skate shoes are features we all look for in our daily-wear pairs, so it’s no wonder skate shoes have a mass appeal. This year, a pair of Converse CONS is sure to impress anyone on your Christmas list, whether it’s for skateboarding, walking around campus, or heading out for a night in downtown Victoria.
Not quite sure on the look or the size? Baggins sells gift certificates that give your friends and family access to thousands of items in stock. For more Converse options, please browse the rest of the Converse collection at Baggins, either in-store in Victoria, British Columbia, or online using our web store. We are stoked to offer free shipping within Canada on orders over $49.
Or, if your friends are already covered for footwear, consider Herschel backpacks or Stance socks to add to their awesomeness before the year is out.
Skateboarding Bylaws in Victoria
Skateboarders should be aware that the City of Victoria has recently relaxed its stance on skateboarding on downtown streets. As in: It’s completely allowed! However, the city is still asking that skateboarders stay off the sidewalks. From its website, here are some general tips to avoid getting fined for riding:
“City bylaws allow for the use of a skateboard, roller skates, in-line skates, or a non-motorized scooter on City streets with an expectation that users will adhere to the same rights and responsibilities as a cyclist. The Parks Regulation Bylaw also allows the use of skateboards and similar devices on roads in parks and along designated paths.”
Rules the City Encourages Skateboarders to Follow
• Ride as close to the right side of the street as you can or in a bike lane if one is available
• No skateboarding on city sidewalks or in crosswalks is permitted at any time
• Skateboarders must wear lights when skateboarding at night time or when it’s dark out
• Ride single file not side by side
• Keep at least one foot on the skateboard at all times when riding
• Helmets are encouraged
• The same rules of the road apply in the parks
Read the complete City of Victoria Skateboarding Bylaw and check out Victoria’s four skate parks:
• Anderson Park (Esquimalt)
• Gordon Head
• Oak Bay
• Vic West