Converse is taking Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s signature sneaker into its next and final stage with the SHAI 001 LACE UP, introducing a traditional lace-up system to one of the brand’s most unconventional basketball silhouettes.
Releasing this Fall in Cheetah, Lime and Berry, the new construction continues the visual language established by the original SHAI 001 while making a significant change to they way the sneaker is secured. Where the first model used a zippered shroud across the upper, the LACE UP replaces it with a more familiar lace system, opening up the silhouette a more familiar lace system, opening up the silhouette while still keeping the exaggerated proportions and futuristic character.
Built Around the Work Behind the Game
The SHAI 001 LACE UP has been created around the quieter side of basketball, the work that happens way before a team enters the court.
Offseason repetitions, the early gym sessions, practice hours and the drills all form part of the process behind an elite player’s performance. The new silhouette reflects that idea, acting as the second and final edition within the SHAI 001 platform.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander isxknown for both his performance on the court and for his approach to fashion and personal style. The SHAI 001 has reflected those identities from the beginning, combining the performance of a basketball shoe with the design of streetwear.
Cheetah, Lime and Berry Colourways
Converse introduces three new colourways for the LACE UP. The Cheetah colourway us arguably the most expressive of the tree, pairing a two-tone colour-blocked upper with a padded tongue covered in a cheetah-print pattern. The animal-inspired detail creates a strong contrast against the synthetic Nubuck construction, giving a playful element to the futuristic silhouette.
The Lime colourway takes a brighter and more energetic approach, covering the sneaker in an eye-catching shade that emphasises the inflated and sculptural construction of the upper.
Meanwhile, the Berry delivers another bold interpretation, giving the SHAI 001 a rich and expressive tone.
A Lace-Up Construction
The biggest change from the original SHAI 001 can be found across the upper.
The first model introduced the silhouette through a futuristic zippered shroud, which gave the sneaker an unusual opening mechanism that seperated it from other basketball sneakers. The LACE UP introduces a conventional lacing system.
The upper itself continues to use a puffed moulded construction, giving the shoe its rounded and futuristic look. Synthetic Nubuck add a soft, tactile finish, while the contrasting collar provides another layer of visual identity. The padded tongue features Shai’s signature logo referencing his number and the identity that runs throughout the signature platform.
The LACE UP features a Nike Zoom Air Unit in fhe forefoot, designed to provide responsive cushioninh and energy return during movement. Beneath the foot, a radial traction pattern is engineered to support quick cuts and changes of direction.
The SHAI 001 Comes to a New Generation
Another important update of the LACE UP launch is the introduction of kids’ sizing, marking the first time the SHAI 001 has been made available to young ballers.
The kids’ version keeps the same silhouette and design as the adult version, giving young basketballers access to the same signature style.
The LACE UP is the final chapter with Converse as he begins a new chapter with Nike.
“I’m excited for what’s ahead as I begin this new chapter with Nike. Before I turn the page, I still have a few things to finish with Converse,” Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said. “I’m proud of what we’ve built and look forward to seeing those pairs out in the world before embracing what’s next.”
Creative Direction by Jacob Rochester
The product illustrations accompanying the launch were created by Jacob Rochester, a multidisciplinary creative whose work spans painting, drawing, graphic design and music.
Release Information
The Converse SHAI 001 LACE UP launches globally on 14 August 2026 in the Lime and Berry colourways, with the Cheetah colourway coming on 3 September 2026.
All three colourways will be available through Converse.com and select retail partners priced at £100 in adult sizing and for the first time, kids sizing will launch alongside the adult pairsc with a retail price of £80.
Converse SHAI 001 LACE UP Takes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Signature Sneaker Into a New Era
