PRO Keds pioneered the performance basketball shoe as we know it. It all started in 1949 with the introduction of the Royal Lo, which immediately established a new standard for athletic footwear. Worn and endorsed by the basketball greats of the day, PRO Keds became established as the professional basketball shoe of choice. Later on, a high top version, the Royal Hi, hit the scene and was just as much of a hit as its low top brother.