Converse Japan's All Star Westernstitch SU HI Brings Western-Boot Stitching to a Suede High-Top

Converse Japan puts the All Star Westernstitch SU HI on sale on October 23. It is a variation on the familiar All Star high-top that borrows its look from western boots, with decorative stitching laid boldly across the upper.

The upper is suede with a rich, napped texture. The stitching is the point of the design: it is prominent and ornamental, in the manner of a cowboy boot shaft, and it is combined with star motifs, a playful nod to the Converse star. Together the suede and the stitching give the shoe a boot-like character that a standard canvas All Star does not have. It comes in two colors: Tan, which shows off the suede, and a more subdued Black. In the official product photo, the Tan pair is a tonal brown from upper to sole, with pale thread picking out the stars and curving lines on the side.

Comfort is not left behind. The shoe carries the renewed All Star specification, which Japanese outlets describe as improving lightness, cushioning, fit and flexibility. The model numbers are 31319430 for Tan and 31319431 for Black.

The price is ¥17,600, about $110. The shoe is listed on the Converse Japan online shop, and press coverage before launch also mentioned pre-orders at other online retailers in Japan, including Rakuten. For Japanese-speaking New Yorkers who shop Japan's online stores or look for pieces on trips home, it is a Japan-market All Star with a distinct autumn look.

(Details are drawn from points that agree across reports by smart Web (Takarajimasha), Fullress, Fashion Press.)