All American Hi Top

Before PF Flyers, canvas sneakers were considered too flimsy for professional basketball. The All American challenged that perception by combining innovations like the patented Posture Foundation wedge insole with reinforced construction, delivering enhanced support, durability, and court-ready performance that earned endorsement from an NBA Hall of Fame point guard.

In 1958, Bob Cousy, the star point guard for the Boston Celtics, signed what became the first-ever athletic shoe endorsement deal in the industry. Cousy, known as "The Houdini of the Hardwood" for his innovative passing and ball-handling, had played for the Celtics since 1950 and was transforming the point guard position with his passing and ball-handling skills.

The endorsement proved mutually beneficial. Cousy led the Celtics to NBA titles in six of the next seven years while wearing the All American, cementing both his legacy and the sneaker's reputation. During his career, Cousy led the league in assists for eight consecutive seasons and earned recognition as a six-time NBA Champion, 1957 NBA MVP, and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient.

The partnership between PF Flyers and Bob Cousy remains the longest-standing relationship between a sneaker brand and an athlete in the footwear industry. In 2022, PF Flyers commemorated this history by re-releasing 1,000 pairs of the original "Cousy All American" sneaker at $95 per pair.

The All American Hi Top features a 10-ounce washed canvas upper designed to provide a vintage look with a modern feel. The 100 percent cotton canvas is soft from the start and built for movement. Silver aluminum eyelets complement the tonal stitching detailing throughout the upper.

Structural reinforcement comes from double stitching on the quarter, heel, and eyestay areas. The rubber toe cap provides both structure and protection at the front of the shoe. The design incorporates a diamond logo patch as signature branding, with elevated ankle patch detailing featuring embroidery.

The gum rubber outsole provides traction on multiple surfaces. The design shares similarities with other high-top canvas basketball shoes of the era, including the Converse Chuck Taylor.

The All American Hi Top incorporates the Posture Foundation Magic Rigid Wedge footbed, a technology that defines the PF Flyers brand. Scientist Hyman L. Whitman developed the Posture Foundation at B.F. Goodrich in 1933, receiving U.S. Patent No. 1,938,127 for the innovation.

The insole design shifts weight to the outside of the foot, allowing proper alignment of the foot's three main supporting bones. This configuration provides arch support, stability, and cushioned comfort during wear. PF Flyers introduced sneakers featuring the Posture Foundation in 1937, and the technology continues in the All American line.

The rigid wedge footbed reduces foot fatigue during extended wear, making the All American suitable for both athletic activity and everyday use.

The All American Hi Top is available in unisex sizing from Mens 4.5/Womens 6 through Mens 15/Womens 16.5. To convert from men's to women's sizes, customers add 1.5 sizes to the men's size. The shoe is designed for a true-to-size fit, though those between sizes or preferring a roomier feel may consider sizing up. Each shoe weighs 907 grams.

The All American Hi Top retails at $90.00 USD, with the All American Lo Top (low-top version) available at $85.00 USD. Colorways include Antique White/Crimson, Antique Black/Crimson, Vintage Green, and Bob Cousy edition options. Additional mid-century-inspired colors include Sea Salt, Sand/Sapphire, and Gray/Green.