Converse Chuck 70 GTX Hi Blonde Espresso Red Black

Chuck 70 GTX: hairy suede, a GORE-TEX membrane and red laces that don't drink water

It's raining and the Chuck 70 still heads out. This version doubles down on the high-top silhouette with two upgrades: a long-nap suede that changes the usual texture of the pair, and a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane hidden under the upper. The base is the one you know, suede Chuck Taylor ankle patch included. The upside: you no longer have to pick between the pair you like and the weather of the day.

The hairy suede upper covers all the ground, in a light sand with a dense, rough texture. The nap is long and uneven, and shifts tone with the angle of the light. The eyelets stay in the same shade as the suede, which leaves the stage to the round red laces flecked with black, closer to outdoor cordage than to a classic flat lace. The toe cap is black with a diamond-point texture, sitting on a black midsole with stacked bands. At the back, a black woven GORE-TEX label is stitched on the collar, and a second one sits on the sidewall near the toe. On the ankle, the suede patch carries the embossed Converse All Star logo, tone on tone with the upper. Inside, the sand textile lining and the Converse-branded insole carry the shade of the upper through. Underneath, the black outsole shows a raised diamond pattern and the Converse All Star plate.

Comfort comes down to three things. Underfoot, OrthoLite cushioning keeps a steady feel from morning to night. On top, the gusseted tongue is joined to the upper at the sides so water doesn't get in through the lacing opening. And non-wicking laces don't carry moisture down to the foot. Together with the GORE-TEX membrane, they keep your feet dry in wet weather. The high-top cut follows the ankle and stays true to the Chuck 70 build. This is a pair built for the city in wet season: commuting, classes, work, nights out in the rain.