Converse When Marquis Converse, founder of the 'Converse Rubber Company', launched a black canvas shoe with rubber sole in 1917, he probably did not know what incomparable success story begins. Today, Converse is a subsidiary of Nike based in Massachusetts. In 1917, Converse launched the Converse "All Star" basketball shoe, so far over 600 million pairs have been sold. The Converse brand becomes a myth as it is worn by rock stars, film heroes and top athletes. The name giver of the famous 'Chucks' is basketball legend Chuck Taylor, who introduced children and teenagers to the sport. Despite being acquired by Nike, the company still produces basketball shoes and fashionable sportswear.