The Converse SHAI 001 "Winter Red" brings festive Christmas vibes to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's first signature shoe. This holiday colorway marks Converse's participation in Nike, Inc.'s tradition of narrative-driven Christmas releases, drawing inspiration from winterberry plants that maintain their color through frigid Canadian winters—a nod to SGA's Hamilton, Ontario roots.

Design & Inspiration

The "Winter Red" edition delivers a seasonal take on Gilgeous-Alexander's debut signature model, which made him Converse's first signature basketball athlete since Elton Brand's EB3 in 2010. While previous SHAI 001 colorways have maintained strict monochromatic aesthetics (Butter, Charm Black, Hail Clay, Masi Blue), this Christmas release introduces contrast through pine green accents. Bright candy apple red dominates the molded unibody upper, zippered shroud, and sculpted sidewalls constructed from smooth neoprene-like material. Pine green hits the signature zipper track, Shai's hand-drawn logo on the tongue (inspired by his number 2 jersey), and rubber outsole branding. The winterberry inspiration connects to SGA's championship season—he debuted the SHAI 001 while winning Regular Season MVP, Finals MVP, and leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first championship in franchise history.

Comfort & Performance

Built on the same foundation as the debut Butter colorway, the SHAI 001 features a ghillie lacing system within an inner bootie, designed to be zipped up during play and worn open off-court. Nike-sourced forefoot Zoom Air units provide responsive cushioning, while the padded tongue enhances comfort. The molded upper delivers containment and durability, harmonizing performance needs with the futuristic aesthetic Gilgeous-Alexander personally designed from initial sketches. A radial traction pattern on the outsole ensures court grip, completing a versatile silhouette that transitions seamlessly from hardwood to streetwear.

Release Information & Pricing

The Converse SHAI 001 "Winter Red" released December 11, 2025 via Converse store and select retailers for $130 USD / €130 / £120 in men's sizing. Gilgeous-Alexander debuted the colorway on-court against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The SHAI 001 line officially launched September 4, 2025 with the Butter colorway, followed by the Family Pack (Charm Black, Hail Clay, Masi Blue) on October 2, 2025. Each colorway has experienced quick sellouts with premiums on resale markets, reflecting strong demand for Converse's return to signature basketball.