the long-lost, mind-blowing artisanship of these leather sneakers by Ryusaku Hiruma, designer of the label Sak who’s been pursuing high-end Italian craftsmanship in Florence for nearly ten years. It’s the second of two parts (Chuck Taylor All Stars were launched in March) and the latest not-what-you-were-expecting collaboration with Converse—from its First String program, to be exact, its most premium tier. Only 64 pairs in each of two men’s styles—Jack Purcell and One Star 1974—will be made available worldwide, all handmade in Florence using old-world construction techniques. Details include hand-stitched leather, toe bumpers and hand-cut star cut-outs at the ends of laces. A high top will be released later this year. $600-700 at Converse specialty stores and select retailers.

Meet Ryusaku Hiruma…