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Converse has long been a household name in footwear, synonymous with the classic Chuck Taylor sneaker, which has made its mark not only in basketball culture but also across the fashion world. After decades of being associated with streetwear and casual sneakers, Converse has ventured back into the performance basketball scene with the Converse All-Star Pro BB. Released in 2019, the Pro BB serves as the company’s return to the performance basketball market, blending Converse’s rich heritage with cutting-edge design and innovative technology.
The Pro BB offers a unique combination of modern performance and nostalgic style, making it a standout in the current landscape of basketball footwear. This shoe is engineered to provide comfort, durability, and style for basketball players of all levels, making it a go-to choice for those looking for a balance of performance and flair.
In this post, we’ll explore the key features, performance aspects, and overall appeal of the Converse All-Star Pro BB. Whether you’re a professional player or a casual fan, this review will provide insight into why this basketball shoe has been so well-received and what makes it a noteworthy choice for basketball enthusiasts.
Design and Aesthetics
The design of the Converse All-Star Pro BB is one of the most appealing aspects of this modern basketball shoe. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Chuck Taylor, the Pro BB combines classic basketball style with a contemporary aesthetic. The upper of the Pro BB features Nike Quadfit mesh, which is lightweight, breathable, and designed to wrap around the foot for a snug, sock-like fit. This material choice ensures that the shoe performs well under pressure while maintaining the lightweight feel for which Converse is known.
The bold Star Chevron logo on the side of the shoe adds a contemporary flair while still paying homage to Converse’s basketball roots. Available in several colorways, including the bold Hyperbright and sleek Triple White, the Pro BB offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for something vibrant and eye-catching or something more understated, Converse has designed the Pro BB to fit a variety of personal styles.
Performance Features
When it comes to basketball shoes, the most critical factors are cushioning and comfort. The Converse All Star Pro BB delivers in both areas with the introduction of Nike React foam in the midsole. This foam provides responsive cushioning, ensuring that players experience the ideal balance between comfort and court feel. Whether you’re running up and down the court or landing from a jump, the React foam helps absorb impact while returning energy to your steps.
Although the Pro BB’s cushioning is praised for its responsiveness, some players have noted that it may feel a bit firmer compared to other basketball shoes with more plush cushioning. This could be a matter of personal preference, as some players prefer a more responsive, court-feel-focused ride over softer, more cushioned setups.
Traction: Firm Grip When You Need It
When it comes to traction, the Pro BB does not disappoint. The shoe’s herringbone traction pattern provides excellent grip on clean indoor courts, ensuring players have solid traction for quick cuts, pivots, and lateral movements. The traction is well-suited for competitive play, offering stability during fast-paced game situations.
However, it’s worth noting that the Pro BB’s traction may require periodic cleaning, especially in environments with dustier courts. Players may need to wipe the outsoles during play to maintain optimal grip. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall performance of the Pro BB’s traction system is commendable, providing a reliable grip during intense movements.
Support and Fit
Support is essential in any basketball shoe, and the Converse All-Star Pro BB excels in this area with its sock-like, snug fit. The Nike Quadfit mesh upper is engineered to adapt to the natural shape of the foot, providing a customized fit that minimizes foot movement within the shoe. The snug fit provides strong ankle support during quick lateral movements. Heel lockdown keeps the foot secure during jumps and landings. This design helps prevent slipping and enhances stability during high-impact play.
The Pro BB fits true to size for most players. Some users with wide feet find the toe box tight. It’s not specifically designed for wide feet or extra width. However, the fit is more accommodating than older Converse models. This makes it more comfortable for a broader range of players. Still, individuals with particularly wide feet may want to try them on first to ensure a comfortable fit.
Durability and Materials
The durability of a basketball shoe is a significant consideration, especially for those who play regularly or outdoors. The Pro BB features a combination of mesh, canvas, and rubber, offering a balance of breathability, lightweight comfort, and traction. However, despite its high-performance materials, the Pro BB may not be the best choice for outdoor use. Some users have reported faster wear and reduced durability on rough outdoor courts compared to shoes made specifically for those conditions.
The rubber outsole, though great for indoor courts, can wear down faster on rough outdoor surfaces, especially in high-abrasion spots. This is common in shoes that focus on being lightweight and breathable. Players planning to use the Pro BB outdoors may want to consider purchasing a second pair to help preserve its performance and durability.
Versatility in Different Playstyles
One of the standout features of the Converse All-Star Pro BB is its versatility. Whether you’re a point guard needing quick lateral movement or a center needing support for rebounds, this shoe delivers. Its reactive cushioning, strong traction, and secure fit make it suitable for various playing styles. The Pro BB is built to meet the demands of different roles on the court with ease. Its performance is balanced across various types of play, making it suitable for both fast breaks and half-court setups.
The Pro BB has been particularly popular among guard players due to its lightweight feel and agility. Guards will appreciate the Pro BB’s quickness and responsiveness during fast-paced play. Players in support-heavy roles, like centers, can also count on its stability. The shoe handles powerful movements like jumping and rebounding with reliable control and balance.
Price Point and Value
In terms of pricing, the Converse All-Star Pro BB provides excellent value. While priced similarly to other performance basketball shoes, the Pro BB balances comfort, style, and functionality well. It avoids the steep costs of premium brands while still delivering solid features. For players seeking high performance without overspending, the Pro BB offers strong value and dependable quality.
When compared to other basketball shoes from high-end brands, the Pro BB stands out as a more affordable option while still delivering great performance on the court.
Final Thoughts
The Converse All Star Pro BB represents Converse’s strategic return to the basketball footwear scene, blending the company’s legendary history with modern performance technology. It delivers responsive cushioning, solid traction, and a snug, supportive fit, all within a stylish and sleek design. Whether you want to stand out on the court or need reliable performance, the Pro BB delivers on both fronts. It’s a versatile shoe designed to support different playing styles with a balance of style and function.
Although the Pro BB may feel too narrow for wide feet or too firm for a cushioned feel. Still, it delivers strong performance for players who prioritize support, responsiveness, and style. The design reflects Converse’s push for innovation while honoring its classic roots. This makes it a solid pick for both serious basketball players and sneaker enthusiasts.
