Take a Closer Look at the A-COLD-WALL* x Converse Collaboration
Preview the duo’s Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged and ERX.
A-COLD-WALL* and Converse are gearing up for the release of their collaborative tracksuit and sneaker collection, originally unveiled at ACW’s Spring/Summer 2020 show at London Fashion Week. Designer Samuel Ross, ACW founder, updated the Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged and ERX with utilitarian detailing and luxe finishes. To complement the shoes, Ross and Converse also introduced two statement tracksuits.
Ross’ take on the Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged, a lug-soled version of the high-top sneaker, features a white ripstop upper accompanied by white rubber overlays — stamped with Converse and ACW branding — that transform the shoe into a weather-proof boot. The ERX, a basketball sneaker, is rendered in cool gray suede with a tonal suede collar strap. A translucent ice-blue midsole finishes off the style.
According to Ross, “the feeling of a brutalist yet minimal environment, set across a series of textures reflecting a spontaneity often found when casting ceramics and concretes” guided the design of both shoes. “Engaging the themes of terrain and exploration were key focuses,” he told HYPEBEAST in an exclusive interview.
On the apparel side, a beige tracksuit merges athleisure and suiting with pleat-detailed sweatpants and a tailored jacket, both in nylon. A second option takes a more casual approach with a geometrically color-blocked zip-up jacket and drawstring pants. When asked what a tracksuit can communicate, Ross cited “comfort, performance and function.” He elaborated, “Both tracksuits open, to respond to fundamental needs such as breathability and perspiration. A focus on re-engaging the warm-up tracksuit became quite a priority.”
The A-COLD-WALL* x Converse collection releases September 14 at the A-COLD-WALL* website and at HBX on September 17.
