Converse is excited to announce the launch of The Retro Running Collective with three exciting new lifestyle models: the Wave Trainer, Omni Trainer, and Omega Trainer. The collection delivers on Converse’s rich heritage rooted in running and reimagines it with a modern form for the present day.
The new collection offers South African fans a fresh look rooted in the brand’s legendary past. Drawing inspiration from Converse’s archival running shoe designs from the 1980s, the three new lifestyle models are a result of pairing vintage character with contemporary function, creating a fusion that’s nostalgic, forward thinking, and built for the sport of life.
The industry’s Most Storied and Experimental Archive
Converse has always been a pioneer in the sneaker world, constantly pushing boundaries. Rather than simply recreating past designs, Converse has continuously evolved, mixing elements from different models to create something new, modern and unique. Case-in-point: Converse Retro Running.
What many may not know is that, with over 10,000 items in its archive, Converse boasts one of the sneaker industry’s most innovative and experimental collections. This rich history, in fact, dates to 1908, and – a treasure trove of innovation – its contents are a testament to the brand’s pioneering spirit. This archive is not just a historical record but an ongoing source of inspiration for Converse’s future designs. For artists, athletes, and designers who explore its treasures, the archive sparks new creative visions.
New Retro Running-Inspired Silhouettes
The Wave Trainer, Omni Trainer, and Omega Trainer bring Converse’s archival running heritage to life, with an emphasis on modern style and versatility these lifestyle models serve as an invitation to experience Converse’s running legacy through a lifestyle lens.
Converse’s connection to running began as early as the 1930s, when the Converse Racer, its first performance shoe, was introduced. The brand has since remained at the forefront of innovation in sportswear, and these new models carry that tradition forward, offering sleek designs inspired by retro silhouettes.
The Wave Trainer is a nod to Converse’s classic 1989 running style, featuring a premium dual-layer suede and sport mesh upper. Styled in colours lifted directly from the archive, the Wave Trainer delivers an authentic retro feel. The upper, complete with an embroidered Star Chevron logo and reflective overlay, adds a modern touch, while the comfort-focused design includes a CX foam sock liner, CX foam midsole, and PU Strobel for all-day wearability. A traction rubber outsole, inspired by styles from Converse’s archive, adds authenticity to the shoe’s original form.
The Omni Trainer and Omega Trainer are also inspired by the Converse archive.
The Omni Trainer, based on the iconic 1984 Converse Equinox, combines a sport nylon ripstop upper with suede overlays, ensuring durability and retro charm. It also features a CX foam midsole and sock liner for added comfort.
Meanwhile, the Omega Trainer is inspired by the 1984 Thunderbolt and 1985 Converse Gazelle, offering a lightweight design with a woven poly sport upper and suede accent. The EVA midsole ensures a comfortable yet streamlined fit, ideal for both style and performance.
The Converse Retro Runner range is now available in Converse Stores nationally as well as Converse.co.za from only R1600.
