Converse SHAI 001 Officially Set to Release on September 4
After months of anticipation, the release date for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s debut signature sneaker with Converse — the SHAI 001 — has finally been announced. The first official drop will feature the standout “Butter” colorway and is scheduled to launch on September 4 through Converse at a retail price of $130 USD.
A Breakout Debut and On-Court Domination
The SHAI 001 first gained attention during NBA All-Star Weekend, where it was unveiled by Gilgeous-Alexander himself. From that point forward, it became a central piece of his historic season, during which he clinched NBA MVP, NBA Finals MVP, and led his team to an NBA Championship. During each playoff series, SGA revealed a new monochromatic version of the sneaker — bringing the total number of colorways showcased to five, each with its own distinct flair.
Design Meets Versatility and Performance
Crafted in collaboration with SGA, the SHAI 001 was designed to reflect his dynamic style and versatile play. Far from a standard endorsement, Gilgeous-Alexander had hands-on involvement in both the logo creation and sneaker design process. He even submitted hand-drawn sketches that helped shape the final product. According to Converse, the shoe is tailored for individuals “who refuse to be limited by conventional thinking or traditional expectations.”
From a performance standpoint, the SHAI 001 blends comfort, containment, durability, and style. The upper features puffed detailing for a sculptural look, with a winged shroud, padded SGA-branded tongue, and a zippered closure system. The zipper includes a locking mechanism for versatile wear — zipped up, halfway open, or fully flipped down — covering a Ghillie lacing system and inner bootie.
Underfoot, the sneaker incorporates Zoom Air cushioning at the forefoot for responsiveness and a radial traction pattern on the outsole, engineered to support SGA’s explosive footwork and quick directional changes.
The Journey to the SHAI 001
This milestone marks a significant evolution in Gilgeous-Alexander’s relationship with Converse. After signing with the brand five years ago, he was named Creative Director of Converse Basketball and introduced his personal logo last December. His influence and style have become central to Converse's basketball identity, and the SHAI 001 is the ultimate representation of that collaboration.
What’s Next
Although the retail launch of the SHAI 001 is set for fall, SGA is expected to continue showcasing new colorways throughout the 2025 season. Fans attending this weekend’s All-Star Game should keep an eye out for the “Butter” pair on SGA’s feet. And for those in the San Francisco area, the SHAI 001 STUDIO pop-up offers an opportunity to experience the shoe firsthand.
Stay tuned for more updates as Converse and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continue to push the boundaries of performance footwear.
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