Converse Apologizes, Pulls Ad After Accusations of Evoking Racist Imagery

Converse has issued a public apology and withdrawn a recent advertising campaign for its Chuck 70 X trainer following accusations that the imagery evoked KKK and lynching symbols. The brand, owned by Nike, acknowledged its misstep, stating, "We’re sorry. We understand why this image is deeply upsetting and recognize that we got this wrong. We removed it from our channels and are working to remove it everywhere it appeared."

The controversy erupted after the ad featured K-pop star Karina. Critics pointed to the lighting on her white skirt, which some likened to a KKK hood, and the way she held the shoes, which some interpreted as resembling a lynching victim's feet. "An apology doesn't undo what got past legal, marketing and leadership at every step," wrote civil rights attorney Lee Merritt on X. "Do better means catching this before it airs, not after we're offended."

While some online debated whether the imagery was intentional, many questioned how such a campaign could pass internal review. "So Nike and Converse, y'all are serious with this ad?" one user posted on X. "Like this imagery was cool and made it through all levels of the company and everyone said 'yes'?" Another commented, "I will never wear this brand, that I have been loyal to for over 20 years, EVER again."

This is not the first time Converse has faced scrutiny for its marketing in recent weeks. An earlier promotional campaign for the Converse x Palmes collection, featuring the Jack Purcell PDM sneaker, also drew criticism. These ads depicted a man climbing a ladder toward a pair of sneakers hanging from a tree, which some interpreted as referencing the Klan. "The Klan silhouette is one thing. But the tree, ladder, and person in the distance looking up while holding up Converse shoes," one critic wrote on Threads.

Previously, Converse also faced backlash in September 2025 for a limited-edition collaboration with singer Charli XCX. The sneakers, which featured distressed and stained effects with printed rips and a small carabiner, were criticized for their "poor design." When questioned about the printed tears, Charli XCX responded, "Rip them yourself babes I'm not doing everything for you."