Converse Chuck II Shield Review
The Converse brand is an American institution. Much like Apple pie or the Hollywood film industry. In fact, it’s a type of a brand that is so beloved it’s basically a staple in the pop culture. Celebrities like Ryan Reynolds, Brad Pitt wear Chuck Taylors and even fictional characters like Leonard Hofstadter from The Big Bang Theory.
The converse is ubiquitous but at the same time a well-respected brand known for the constant supply of quality classic and comfortably merchandise. And Converse is a shining example that it’s never too late to start following your dreams. The company’s founder Mills Converse (who was a Marquis by the way) started the Company at the age of 47. In the first few years, Converse manufactures a type of rubber shoes specially made for the harsh winters in Massachusetts.
But it was a basketball player by the name of Chuck Taylor that changed everything. He apparently walked into the Company complaining of sore and painful feet. He then got a job at the Company and worked there until his death in 1969. The Converse sneakers bare his name since.
But for now, let’s focus on 2 Shield by Converse. What can be said about it? Well, find out by scrolling down.
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
Microsuede lining
Vulcanized rubber in the outsole
Shield Canvas in the upper
Water-repellent
Cons
Runs a half a size smaller
Outsole
When you have a shoe that’s iconic, it’s hard to know which part of it is more bad-ass and recognizable than the rest. In the Air Jordan’s it’s the fantastic cushioned midsole with those very recognizable air-bags. In the Timberland boots, it’s the look and the color used in the upper’s design.
But when you have a product like this then how can you differentiate and accentuate the best of the best? It’s very hard. But let’s give it a shot and start with the outsole. Although it may look like any regular outsole, the outsole in the 2 Shield is really not. Just like with any new series, every bit gets improved and the outsole is no exception. Yes, rubber was used in the making of the outsole, but this is Vulcanised rubber. What’s so great about it? Well, for starters, because of the vulcanization the rubber here is more pliable and very flexible. The real downside of having a Vulcanised rubber in the outsole is the lack of stability, but other than that, this particular style of rubber fits perfectly in the style, design, and practicality of the sneaker involved. When you have a specimen that’s not so rigid, heavy and very tough in the upper, you need something that could balance the lightness and the effortless flexibility of the top part. Hence, the use of Vulcanised rubber in the making of the outsole.
If you take a good look at the bottom part of that outsole, you’ll notice that that the pronounced and deep indentations (or ridges). They’re quite deep and well designed (vulcanized too) and they’re strategically located on two separate areas. The first is around the toes and the second is in the heel area of the outsole. Oh, it’s also worth mentioning that the outsole located on the side (and the toe caps) can vary in color. It all depends on the color used in the upper, but this particular series doesn’t have the uniformed white rubber as you might think. No, it some of the models it could be red or neon yellow. It’s up to you to decide, but the bottom part of the outsole will always remain brown. This particular type of outsole will keep you from slipping and falling, but that’s a topic for another segment of this review. But more on that a bit later in this post.
But when you have a product like this then how can you differentiate and accentuate the best of the best? It’s very hard. But let’s give it a shot and start with the outsole. Although it may look like any regular outsole, the outsole in the 2 Shield is really not. Just like with any new series, every bit gets improved and the outsole is no exception. Yes, rubber was used in the making of the outsole, but this is Vulcanised rubber. What’s so great about it? Well, for starters, because of the vulcanization the rubber here is more pliable and very flexible. The real downside of having a Vulcanised rubber in the outsole is the lack of stability, but other than that, this particular style of rubber fits perfectly in the style, design, and practicality of the sneaker involved. When you have a specimen that’s not so rigid, heavy and very tough in the upper, you need something that could balance the lightness and the effortless flexibility of the top part. Hence, the use of Vulcanised rubber in the making of the outsole.
If you take a good look at the bottom part of that outsole, you’ll notice that that the pronounced and deep indentations (or ridges). They’re quite deep and well designed (vulcanized too) and they’re strategically located on two separate areas. The first is around the toes and the second is in the heel area of the outsole. Oh, it’s also worth mentioning that the outsole located on the side (and the toe caps) can vary in color. It all depends on the color used in the upper, but this particular series doesn’t have the uniformed white rubber as you might think. No, it some of the models it could be red or neon yellow. It’s up to you to decide, but the bottom part of the outsole will always remain brown. This particular type of outsole will keep you from slipping and falling, but that’s a topic for another segment of this review. But more on that a bit later in this post.
Midsole
Since Nike is partnered with Converse (they’ve been business partners since 2003) Nike was in charge of delivering the goods for the midsole. So, thanks to Nike, the 2 Shield has Lunarlon sock liner in the midsole. What’s so special about the Lunarlon sock liner you might ask? Well, it’s a sock liner that’s been developed with Nike’s innovative technology. It’s a technology that is responsible to the cushioning system, and although Nike uses it in the outsole, Converse has decided to apply it in the midsole. It utilizes soft and very responsive foam, and by the mere feel of that foam, the feeling that you’re left is like you’re on a Lunar mission with NASA. Hence, the name Lunarlon. Another great feature in the midsole is the presence of the micro-suede type of lining.
Made from polyester fibers, the micro-suede is wear-resistant materials, it’s very soft and buttery to the touch, easy to clean and it leaves you with a nice soft touch even through thick wool socks. It’s really that great of a product. What’s the point of putting a sock liner that’s so innovative and progressive, when you don’t have a lining that’s so innovative and caring in equal amounts?
Made from polyester fibers, the micro-suede is wear-resistant materials, it’s very soft and buttery to the touch, easy to clean and it leaves you with a nice soft touch even through thick wool socks. It’s really that great of a product. What’s the point of putting a sock liner that’s so innovative and progressive, when you don’t have a lining that’s so innovative and caring in equal amounts?
Upper
The upper is frankly the 2 Shield’s crowning achievement. Why? Because it offers something new, something fresh and something that’s so practical, it would make any other shoe obsolete. Introducing the Counter Climate special canvas. What’s so special about this particular canvas? Well, it’s waterproof, for one. Convers have been known for manufacturing cotton canvas type of sneakers.
They’re great. They’ve remained unchanged from the early ’20s, and they’re a classic. But having a cotton canvas in the upper means they have the tendency to get wet fairly easily. It’s a quite difficult situation to get caught in the rain, and when it does happen you’ll need a highly water-resistant and essentially waterproof shoe. Well, Converse has a piece of exciting news in that department. The Counter Climate canvas offers that and so much more. What’s all that more? Well, because that special canvas is Counter Climate type it means that will not only keep your feet dry, it will also keep them warm in practically every type of climate. That’s especially helpful for the customers who live in primarily colder and wet climates. And you know what else helps with that? The tongue, the lining, and the eyelets. Yes, that’s right. Not only the tongue of the 2 Shield is padded, but it’s also lined with padded microsuede which enhances the comfort in the entire surface of the upper, not just in the tongue. But the thing is, Converse has the waterproof protection so figured out, that they’ve changed the look and the practicality of the eyelets in order to improve on the waterproof protection.
Yup. The tongue has very protective non-slip properties, but the biggest and probably most practical innovative step was taken in the creation of the eyelets. Hey may seem like your regular, and sneaker, but if you take a closer look at the sides you’ll notice that the medial eyelets are removed. So, the days in which water can penetrate through the medial eyelets and the entire upper are long gone.
They’re great. They’ve remained unchanged from the early ’20s, and they’re a classic. But having a cotton canvas in the upper means they have the tendency to get wet fairly easily. It’s a quite difficult situation to get caught in the rain, and when it does happen you’ll need a highly water-resistant and essentially waterproof shoe. Well, Converse has a piece of exciting news in that department. The Counter Climate canvas offers that and so much more. What’s all that more? Well, because that special canvas is Counter Climate type it means that will not only keep your feet dry, it will also keep them warm in practically every type of climate. That’s especially helpful for the customers who live in primarily colder and wet climates. And you know what else helps with that? The tongue, the lining, and the eyelets. Yes, that’s right. Not only the tongue of the 2 Shield is padded, but it’s also lined with padded microsuede which enhances the comfort in the entire surface of the upper, not just in the tongue. But the thing is, Converse has the waterproof protection so figured out, that they’ve changed the look and the practicality of the eyelets in order to improve on the waterproof protection.
Yup. The tongue has very protective non-slip properties, but the biggest and probably most practical innovative step was taken in the creation of the eyelets. Hey may seem like your regular, and sneaker, but if you take a closer look at the sides you’ll notice that the medial eyelets are removed. So, the days in which water can penetrate through the medial eyelets and the entire upper are long gone.
Comfort
A universally accepted rule says that the Comverse’s All-Star type of sneakers is one of the most comfortable shoes on the planet. It’s true. It’s been true for more than a century, and with the introduction of the 2 Shield series, it’s even truer. What makes them more comfortable than usual? Well, because of the Counter Climate special canvas for starters. What’s the point of buying a model that you will keep locked in your shoe closet all spring long? A model that you can wear for a month or two? No, 2 Shield is waterproof and very protective of your feet and your overall health even in much colder climates.
It will keep you dry and warm, and it will allow you to wear them all year around. Secondly, there’s the Lunarlon sock liner in the midsole. Nike’s premium technological achievement that’s been put in good use here in the latest Convers merchandise. The extra soft and lightweight sock liner will make you feel bouncy, lightweight and with plenty of energy. Like you’re an astronaut in Zero-G state, effortlessly floating inside the International space station. And last but certainly not least. The comfort is accented even with the presence of the padded tongue. Although it may seem insignificant, the padding in the tongue is a very important step in the right direction. The comfort will come from multiple areas, and that’s awesome.
It will keep you dry and warm, and it will allow you to wear them all year around. Secondly, there’s the Lunarlon sock liner in the midsole. Nike’s premium technological achievement that’s been put in good use here in the latest Convers merchandise. The extra soft and lightweight sock liner will make you feel bouncy, lightweight and with plenty of energy. Like you’re an astronaut in Zero-G state, effortlessly floating inside the International space station. And last but certainly not least. The comfort is accented even with the presence of the padded tongue. Although it may seem insignificant, the padding in the tongue is a very important step in the right direction. The comfort will come from multiple areas, and that’s awesome.
Support
The simplicity that’s been part of the Converse design has been never more evident in the high top design of the opening. You might think that it’s a fairly insignificant part of the construction, but in fact, it’s one of the most influential parts in achieving the support. The same can be said about the padding in the tongue and the classic fastening/lace-up system that goes all the way up to the ankles. When your feet are nicely fixated, secured the support will come easily.
Durability
You can thank the fantastic vulcanized rubber in the outsole for this. And the Counter Climate canvas used in the upper. When two of the areas with the biggest exposure to the outside influences are reinforced and made with fantastic materials, you’d best believe that the durability will practically bust at the seams.
Flexibility
Another byproduct of the fantastic materials that are used in the creation of the 2 Shield model. Why are the materials so important? Well, they’re the prime culprits for the flexibility, but don’t underestimate the power of the Lunarlon sock liner to deliver some of the flexibility as well. It’s made out of very special and highly flexible light foam. It’s easy to bend and easy on adjusting to the foot’s anatomical specifications. What more could you ask for?
Stability
Sadly, none of the Converse items are graced with stability. Despite how great the outsole and the midsole are. A large portion of the stability comes from the upper too, and when you have a canvas made upper, the sneakers will become stability deprived.
Airflow
But don’t you worry about the airflow here. Yes, the stability isn’t particularly allowed, but since this is a Counter Climate special type of canvas, a large portion of the airflow will come through the upper. Yes, it’s waterproof, but it doesn’t mean its air-tight type of upper. So, the water and other types of moisture will be prevented from entering the insides, but the 2 Shield will be aerated sufficiently.
Brand
The converse is a brand that’s worked tersely in preserving and nurturing the trust from the loyal fans. It’s something that was built steadily for decades, and Converse has shown gratitude by making the most practical and stylish shoes that you can wear all year around. They’re Canvas based but this time with the innovative kick and that strive toward innovation and improvement that’s been keeping the company on top of their game for so long.
Style
The 2 Shield doesn’t differ significantly in the style form any other Converse model. The difference is in their practicality. They’re waterproof, with extra padding the tongue area and without the medial eyelets. Without them, the waterproof effect is much more pronounced and on the stylish side of things, they look fantastic. They come in different color variations, but the one thing that’s most in common in them (besides the fact that they look great with any type of outfit) is that they’re a godsend for the customers that love to wear Converse in practically every season and weather condition. Don’t let the rain stop you from wearing them. Flaunt them and don’t worry about the weather forecast. The Lunaron sock liner is there to make them extra comfy, and the vulcanized rubber to make them slip-resistant and stable on any type of terrain. Yes, they’re that amazing and so worth buying them. You’ll love every moment spent in the 2 Shields by Converse
Bottom line
The Converse is a staple in modern culture. But having a waterproof version shows the dedication and innovation that the Company has been cultivating over the years. The 2 Shield is a versatile, affordable and timeless pair that allows you to wear it whenever you please. Even if the weather conditions don’t allow it, you can still enjoy the 2 Shield pair on your feet.
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