Vans is returning back to its skateboarding roots, and that comes with a major retail overhaul starting in London, one of the brand’s biggest markets.

The footwear brand’s 214 Oxford Street store, which opened in 2019, has had a major revamp — taking it from a dingy corner store to a bright, state-of-the-art space with floor-to-ceiling windows that’s fitted with a 200 square meter Roman travertine stone skate ramp.

For a brand to really stand out on one of the busiest streets in central London, new ideas are necessary.

Vans’ next door neighbors — Nike and the newly opened Ikea — have demonstrated that to lure customers in, they need more than just rows of products or mannequins – there needs to be a sense of community and a history of the brand.

Ikea is capitalizing on its blue polypropylene bags and Vans is reminding everyone that they’re one of the original brands for skateboarders.

By day, the store sells clothes and accessories, as well as skateboards with British slang printed on, meanwhile in the evenings, the space will be used for regular skate lessons, demos and events by Vans skate team and local skate schools.

“We thought it was quite provocative to bring the best of counterculture into one of the most commercial strips in the world,” said Andreas Olsson, vice president and general manager of Vans EMEA in an interview.

There’s more space than ever at the store as Vans has adopted a new design system using the walls and surrounding areas for hidden storage instead of a physical storage room. There are no cash registers as transactions can take place anywhere on the floor — just like at the Apple store.

The walls replicate the waffle pattern found on the sole of Vans shoes and the hidden storage units are made of grinded plywood – a subtle nod to the construction of skate ramps, which can be flipped for a gray canvas to replicate the interiors of an art exhibition.

“We need to raise the standard and somewhat also bring ourselves a little bit closer to the community and the culture of London,” said Olsson, adding that the brand has seen the importance to gain proximity to the culture of skateboarding, art, design and music.

Olsson, who has been back with Vans for over a year now is shaking things up. He wants to “elevate,” “reset” and “push” the brand into the future. 

He previously spent almost seven years with the brand from 2012 to 2018.

“We want to lead through skateboarding. The purpose of retail today is that it’s a mix of the commerce side of retail – which is only a piece of it, but it’s really about the whole entertainment and activation side of things,” said Olsson.

“Consumers expect to engage in retail in a much different way than they’ve done in the past. In the past it was more of a commerce driven entity, but today, anything can be accessed through a cellphone – the reason that someone comes into the store is to experience the depth of the brand and the cultures that we represent. We want to do that justice in the most credible way.”

London is the first piece in Vans’ rejigging of retail followed by refreshing its stores across Europe that will soon be rolled out to the U.S. and Asian market. The brand is also introducing a new ecommerce website.

The Oxford Street store doesn’t stop at just skateboarding. A lot of newness is being injected into the space by working with brands and talent outside of VF Corp., Vans’ parent company that also owns Dickies, The North Face and Timberland.

London-based creative Jack Charlie Mitchelln has curated a selection of books and music that customers can buy and next to that are items from Vans’ collaboration with the jeweler The Great Frog, audio brand Gomi and skateboarding brand Lovenskate.

Streetwear’s favorite internet moodboard is looking back on its last decade of output with a special two-week pop-up event in Montreal. 

JJJJound announced Wednesday its Entrepôt event, an archive sale inspired by outlet stores that seeks to change the perception around discounted goods, according to the brand.

“Entrepôt is an immersive installation that reimagines the intersection of retail overflow and industrial warehousing,” reads the event description. “The installation attempts to present archival pieces, rebated products, and overstock as part of a [sic] artful experience. By incorporating the aesthetic of an unfinished warehouse, the installation creates a raw, minimalist setting where commercial excess takes on the form of curated art.”

Preview images show a breadth of past-stock product including apparel, accessories and some of JJJJound’s most coveted sneaker collaborations. Although a full list of items was not provided, collaboration shoes previewed in the announcement include the brand’s New Balance 992, Salomon XT-Wings 2, Vans Sk8-Mid, Victory Sportswear Trail Runner (which was JJJJound’s first sneaker collab), Reebok Club C and Puma Suede.

The collaborative footwear was sold at original retail pricing and also included projects from Adidas, Blackstock & Weber, Danner, Dr. Martens, Padmore & Barnes and ROA. Meanwhile, clothing was sold at discounted prices, with JJJJound mainline products ranging from $10 CAD for souvenirs to $70 CAD for coats.

Attendees shared their pick-ups on platforms including Instagram and Reddit, with one user saying they traveled from New Jersey to Montreal for a chance to shop the sale. 

On Sunday, JJJJound announced that due to higher-than-expected turnout, the pop-up would close Monday for a restock and re-open Tuesday. 

The JJJJound Entrepôt event is located at 399 Saint-Jacques Street, Montreal, QC H2Y 1N9 and will run through Nov. 16. It’s open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET on Saturday and Sunday. Readers can find a preview of featured footwear collaborations below.

Jason Kelce’s “College GameDay” field goal attempt in Timberland boots missed the mark completely on Saturday, but the outdoor footwear manufacturer and parent company VF Corporation are still doubling down on their original pledge to make a huge donation to Hurricane Helene relief.

After weeks of teasing his Timberland-equipped kick, Kelce made his “College GameDay” appearance Saturday ahead of No. 3 Penn State’s home game against the No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes.

Going into the event, Vans (which is also owned by VF Corp.) challenged Kelce to compete in Pat McAfee’s weekly field goal challenge while wearing the classic Timberland 6-inch wheat boot. 

The brand put $100,000 on the line for disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Helene, following up on October’s viral moment when University of California, Berkeley student Daniel Villasenor made a “College GameDay” field goal while wearing Vans Slip-On sneakers. 

Villasenor won $100,000 for himself while raising a total of $600,000 in relief funds, and Vans and the student continued the philanthropy by challenging Kelce to duplicate the feat in Timberlands.

It all culminated in Kelce’s Saturday attempts, the first of which sailed far left of the uprights. Vans and Timberland then upped the ante to $200,000 for a second-chance kick. That kick, too, traveled left of its destination, resulting in ridicule from McAfee and his co-hosts.

But the story didn’t end there. In a follow-up post on X, McAfee stated the show will still donate $200,000 to the hurricane relief efforts with Vans and Timberland donating an additional $200,000. 

What’s more, Timberland is getting viewers involved in the action. A campaign was announced in which fans are challenged to post their own (successful or unsuccessful) field goal attempts while wearing Timberland boots while using the hashtag #kickitforward. The brand will then add to its donation total an additional $100 for each of the first 1,000 entries.

Since launching earlier this spring, the OTW by Vans line has continually introduced dramatic alterations to some of the brand’s most famous sneakers. That streak now continues with an Old Skool tailored to the trails.

The Vans OTW Old Skool 36 Trail Vibram sees the nearly 50-year-old sneaker undergo an exhaustive overhaul. Rather than suede and canvas, the shoe’s upper is now made out of a durable Dyneema fabric with a reinforced toe and heel. A magnetic Fidlock lacing system offers quick adjustments, and the sole unit has been completely redone with EVA foam and Vans’ first-ever custom outsole and midsole from Vibram. The end result is a bonafide trail sneaker, and one that just how happens to feature the DNA of the Old Skool.

For its debut, the OTW Old Skool 36 Trail Vibram is decorated in monochromatic olive or white and grey.

In addition to some more straightforward collaborations, which have been no less interesting with pearlized studs or Parra’s signature color palette, Vans OTW also remixed the Old Skool with a knit upper over the summer. The trails have had a steady presence in the line’s early days as well, as the Speed Vibram and Half Cab 33 Vibram have both taken on more aggressive and grippy outsoles. Those sneakers, however, didn’t featured existing Vibram sole components.

OTW replaced the long-running Vault by Vans line, which contributed more premium makeups and was the focal point for the brand’s collaborations. The relaunch is part of Vans’ efforts to get out of a years-long slump, and just this week parent company VF corp reported better-than-expected revenue bolstered in part by improvements from Vans.

The Vans OTW Old Skool 36 Trail Vibram will release Friday, November 1, through the OTW website and select third-party retailers Pricing is set at $165.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.

As its turnaround plan takes hold, VF Corporation is introducing new strategic goals and financial targets.

The parent company to Vans, The North Face and more brands announced a new set of medium term financial targets its investor day on Wednesday, which included achieving an adjusted operating margin of at least 10 percent, adjusted gross margin of at least 55 percent and adjusted SG&A as a percentage of revenue of 45 percent or less, all by fiscal year 2028.

VF also rolled out broader targets for the business, such as keeping its brands “anchored in the performance category with style elements that further expand the platform for growth.” VF also said it would invest in design, marketing, business planning, AI and talent development and streamline workstreams to reduce costs.

In 2023, VF laid out “Reinvent,” a strategic business transformation plan that involved revitalizing the Vans brand and reviving business in the U.S. In its second quarter earnings report on Monday, the company cited progress and said it is on track to hit $300 million in savings by the end of fiscal year 2025.

“We are accelerating the pace of change by building new capabilities across our organization to leverage our powerful portfolio of brands for long-term, sustainable, profitable growth,” VF chief executive officer Bracken Darrell said in a statement. “We are beginning to see benefits from our initiatives, but significant upside remains as we create a structure primed for growth while transforming our company and its culture. This strong foundation positions us to quickly enhance VF’s profitability while enabling further investment in sustainable shareholder value creation.”

In the second quarter, sales at The North Face were $1.09 billon, down 3 percent from the prior year. The improving Vans brand, which in May tapped former Lululemon chief product officer Sun Choe as its new global brand president, saw sales decline 11 percent to $667.4 million. Timberland sales dropped 3 percent to $475.3 million and Dickies was down 11 percent to $152.4 million.

In the third quarter, VF Corp. expects revenues of between $2.7 billion and $2.75 billion, which would represent a decline of between 1 and 3 percent over the prior year and include negative impacts from foreign exchange headwinds. Adjusted operating income is expected in the range of $170 million to $200 million.

VF Corp.’s stock surged in after hours trading after the company swung to a profit and posted better-than expected revenues.

The parent company to Vans, The North Face and more brands reported that revenues for the second quarter were down 6 percent to $2.8 billion, which surpassed the expectations of analysts surveyed by Yahoo Finance and represented improvement from Q1. Adjusted EPS was 60 cents compared to 63 cents in the same period the prior year.

VF’s stock was up more than 16 percent after markets closed on Monday.

By brand, sales at The North Face were $1.09 billon, down 3 percent from the prior year. The improving Vans brand, which in May tapped former Lululemon chief product officer Sun Choe as its new global brand president, saw sales decline 11 percent to $667.4 million. Timberland sales dropped 3 percent to $475.3 million and Dickies was down 11 percent to $152.4 million.

By region, revenue declines were most pronounced in the Americas, where sales were down 10 percent. 

VF chief executive officer Bracken Darrell said in a statement that Q2 results met expectations and represented “a sequential and broad-based improvement in year-on-year trends.” He noted that the company is still on track to hit $300 million in savings by the end of fiscal year 2025 as its turnaround plan takes hold and that VF used to the proceeds from the $1.5 billion deal to sell off Supreme to EssilorLuxottica to pay down debt.

“Our Americas regional platform is fully operational and showing promising signs, while the performance at Vans is improving,” Darrell said. “In summary, we advanced our turnaround plan towards a return to growth and strong, sustainable value creation at VF.”

VF last year laid out a strategic business transformation plan, part of which involves revitalizing the Vans brand with a new president and reviving business in the U.S.

Looking ahead to the third quarter, VF Corp. expects revenues of between $2.7 billion and $2.75 billion, which would represent a decline of between 1 and 3 percent over the prior year and include negative impacts from foreign exchange headwinds. Adjusted operating income is expected in the range of $170 million to $200 million.

Top Vans Shoes of 2024

Best Vans Shoes Overall

Vans Old Skool Shoes

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Buy Now at nordstrom $70

Best Vans Shoes For Comfort

Vans Classic Slip-On Shoes

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Buy Now at Nordstrom $60

Vans Authentic Shoes

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Vans Sk8-Hi Shoes

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Buy Now at Zappos $74.95

Vans Upland Shoes

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Vans Cruse Too ComfyCush Shoes

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Buy Now at zappos $84.95

Best Vans Shoes For Style

Vans Knu Skool Shoes

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Buy Now at Vans $75

Vans Mary Jane Creeper Shoes

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Vans Hylane Shoes

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Buy Now at zappos $90

Best Vans Streetwear Shoes 

Vans Era Shoes

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Best Vans Platform Shoes

Vans Classic Slip-On Stackform Shoes

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Best Low Cut Vans Shoes

Vans Sport Low Shoes

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Vans MTE Sk8-Hi Waterproof Insulated Shoes

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Best Vans Cushioned Running Shoes

Vans UltraRange EXO Shoes

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Skate shoes may be trending, but there’s one brand that has that ethos embedded in its DNA: Vans. Whether it’s low-top styles for casual wear or souped-up options strictly for the skate park, the best Vans shoes have an impressive history of craftsmanship to back their notable design. From the best walking shoes for men to comfortable sneakers for women, the brand has catered to everyone and every style for decades.

Originally made with skateboarders and athletes in mind, Vans has produced innovative designs over the past five decades. The debut shoes were known for offering ankle support for boarding tricks and durability to keep up with wipeouts. Today, Vans has extended its product line to include options for other sports, too, like surfing and BMX, and now there are more lifestyle options made for daily wear, even if you’re not into the sports scene.

While any Vans shoe style is timeless, there are a few that remain best-sellers time and time again — and have even earned high honors as Footwear News’ Greatest Shoes of All Time. First up, the Vans Old Skool shoe, a classic design from the brand that was first seen in the 1970s. There’s also the Classic Slip-On Shoe, which caught the attention of surfers due to its easy pull-on-and-off silhouette. Like the Old Skool shoe, the Classic slip-on shoes are crafted with Vans’ traditional canvas material, a flexible fabric that’s both breathable and sturdy. And of course, the Vans Authentic shoe that launched with the brand back in 1966 and remains an affordable everyday favorite — even among fashion icons like Harry Styles who recently sported them at London Fashion Week.

On the topic of canvas shoes, Vans is one of the best shoe brands to have in your wardrobe based on its proprietary canvas materials alone. Each pair is exceptionally durable, machine-washable, and lightweight, while a thick rubber sole provides stability and grip for quick movement and walking on slick surfaces. These days, Vans has adapted its strategy to use other synthetic materials like leather and suede, incorporating modern and stylish twists to beloved classics.

Vans has seen a surge in popularity, mainly due to the resurgence of the Y2K-inspired skateboard trends in streetwear fashion and on social media. On TikTok, searches for #Vans have amassed an astounding 6 billion views, while the term “My Vans Collection” has amassed over 23 million posts. In just the past year, style stars like Emily Ratajkowski, Gigi Hadid, Jennifer Lawrence, and Zoë Kravitz have all been seen sporting Vans in their off-duty style, while long-time fans like Justin Bieber continue to keep them in rotation.

Vans also stays relevant in the market with buzzy collaborations with the likes of Barbie, Gucci, JJJJound, and Gallery Dept. Plus, the brand continues to draw to its past to update icons. The summer 2024 “Always Out There” collection plucked bold and chunky silhouettes from its ’90s and early aughts archives, reintroducing the Hylane, Upland, and Mixxa shoes with modern design touches and added comfort features.

Vans shoes aren’t just popular with skaters; they’re also the shoe of choice for anyone who loves a simple, reliable pair of sneakers. If you’re looking for a durable and comfortable pair of shoes, rest assured our below picks will tick every box.

Vans Old Skool Shoes

Release date: 1966
Size range: 6 to 17.5 men’s; 5 to 18.5 women’s
Colorways: 30 options for men; 30 options for women
Materials: Durable suede and canvas uppers, supportive padded collars, 
rubber waffle outsoles
Special features: Has Vans’ iconic low-top and classic side stripe, lace-up closure
Best for: Durability

$70 Buy Now at nordstrom

$70 Buy Now at Vans

Out of all of Vans’ shoes, the Old Skool shoes are some of the most popular. The Old Skools were Vans’ first pair of sneakers that showcased the famous side stripe mark — which originated from a doodle by Vans founder Paul Van Doren — that nearly all pairs are made with today.

In addition to that notable design detail, Old Skool shoes have a durable rubber sole that boosts traction on slick surfaces. The versatile and timeless 1977 model has been sported by everyone from pro skaters like Tony Trujillo to style legends like Gigi Hadid.

Check out more of Footwear News’ Greatest Shoes of All Time 2024

What testers say: “I’ve had a pair of these for about eight years. They are by far the most durable pair of shoes I have ever owned. My pair is ready for retirement, and I will definitely be ordering another any day! I absolutely love these shoes. They’re simple, durable, and I always feel like a badass wearing them.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $70

Vans Classic Slip-On Shoes

Release date: 1977
Size range: 6.5 to 16 men’s; 5 to 17.5 women’s
Colorways: 8 options for men; 8 options for women
Materials: Synthetic uppers, rubber waffle outsoles, elastic side accents
Special features: Slip on feature, classic red heel tab
Best for: Walking

$60 Buy Now at Nordstrom

$65 Buy Now At Vans

Vans’ Classic Slip-On shoe is a comfortable and no-fuss pick. These shoes are cemented as pop culture icons, from their cameo on Sean Penn in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” in 1977, to being worn by practically every trendsetter in the 2010s. Today, they’re still sported by top models and A-listers like Jennifer Lawrence, Olivia Rodrigo, and Christy Turlington-Burns, whether in muted “quiet luxury” ensembles or with a punk panache. They feature a convenient slip-on design that’s key for travel or dashing out the door, and can easily be dressed up or down for work or play. What’s more, these slip-on sneakers are available in multiple widths for those who need a pair of shoes for wide feet.

Check out more of Footwear News’ Greatest Shoes of All Time 2024

What testers say: “I’m unable to bend because of surgery and must wear slip on sneakers. These are so incredibly comfortable. I put them in at 6 in the morning and sometimes don’t take them off till ten at night. Highly recommend them. By the way, did I mention I’m 71? They are good for all ages.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $60

Vans Authentic Shoes

Release date: 1966
Size range: 6.5 to 18 men’s; 5 to 19.5 women’s
Colorways: Black, white, all-black, blue red, navy, yellow, gray, pink, green, and more
Materials: Canvas uppers, rubber waffle outsoles
Special features: Heritage low-top silhouette, lace-up closure
Best for: Everyday wear

$55 Buy Now at zappos

$55 Buy Now at vans

Consider the humble Vans Authentic Shoe the style that started it all. It launched in 1966 as the brand’s first-ever deck shoe, introducing Vans’ renowned durability and grip to the instant embrace of skateboarders. Its streamlined, low-collar design, breathable canvas uppers, and sturdy construction have positioned it to stand the test of time (over 58 years, to be exact), so it’s naturally one of the Greatest Shoes of All Time, according to Footwear News.

Check out more of Footwear News’ Greatest Shoes of All Time 2024

What testers say: I have been buying and wearing these shoes for years and there’s a reason why! These shoes are incredibly comfortable, not inaccessible in expense, and get the job done! I wear these casually and for work and they have yet to let me down. Once you break these bad boys in, it’s game over. The break-in period only took me less than a week. I’m looking to buy another pair soon because my last pair served me oh so well. 100/10 would recommend.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $55

Vans Sk8-Hi Shoes

Release date: 1978
Size range: 6.5 to 13 men’s; 5 to 14.5 women’s
Colorways: 23 options for men; 23 options for women
Materials: Suede and canvas uppers, rubber waffle outsoles
Special features: Multiple prints and colors
Best for: Wider widths

$74.95 Buy Now at Zappos

$75 Buy Now at vans

The Sk8-Hi shoes have a high-rise profile that lends ankle support. They were also one of the first high-top skate shoes to enter the market and the brand’s second style with the iconic Vans side stripe. The Sk8-Hi also has padded collars and reinforced toe caps for a comfortable, secure feel. And with over 20 colorways available for men and women, these high-top Vans can jibe with any aesthetic.

What testers say: “These shoes are great. They are all black, so they are a no-brainer with just about any outfit. They’re comfortable, stylish, and look awesome. I wear them anywhere, from the gym to work, or just hanging out. My first pair lasted about three years before wearing our bottoms, but I will be getting another!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $75

Vans Upland Shoes

Release date: Designed in 1999, updated in 2024
Size range: 6.5 to 15 men’s; 5 to 16.5 women’s
Colorways: White and orange, white and blue, black, all-white, white and red, pink, gray, white and green, and more
Materials: Leather and synthetic uppers, rubber outsoles
Special features: Padded collars, chunky outsole
Best for: Bold street style

$95 Buy Now at vans

This 1999 re-issue fronts chunky, inflated sneaker trends that are beloved in street style today. The leather-topped Upland sneaker boasts a brand-new outsole for improved comfort and underfoot stability, along with plush padded collars to prevent blisters. It doubles down on bolder-is-better aesthetics with puffy molded “V” logos, oversized laces, and vivid colorway options from acid green to bubblegum pink.

What testers say: “I wore these when I was in middle school like 20 years ago. I am so happy they brought these back. I’ve been waiting a long time for them to make a comeback. Can’t wait to buy more colors. I love the new design and how comfy they are. Highly recommend!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $60

Vans Cruse Too ComfyCush Shoes

Size range: 6.5 to 13 men’s; 5 to 14.5 women’s
Colorways: White and green, blue, all-white, white and green, black, black and gray, and more
Materials: Suede, canvas, and leather uppers, rubber waffle outsoles
Special features: Padded collars, cement cupsole
Best for: Walking and skating

$84.95 Buy Now at zappos

$85 Buy Now at vans

If ample cushioning is a non-negotiable for you, look to the Vans Cruse Too ComfyCush. Unique to other styles from the brand, it boasts increased footbed and outsole cushioning for soft steps, along with 360-degree padding along the collar. It most replicates the Vans Old Skool’ Shoe’s heritage overlays and seaming, with the premium suede and leather uppers and reliable underfoot comfort.

What testers say: “As an ex-skater with bad knees, these were actually surprisingly comfortable. Lightweight and nice to walk in, I’d definitely buy another pair!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $84.95

Vans Knu Skool Shoes

Release date: 1998
Size range: 6.5 to 16 men’s; 5 to 17.5 women’s
Colorways: 15 options for men; 15 options for women
Materials: Suede uppers, puffy 3D molded Sidestripe
Special features: Puffy tongue and ankle collar
Best for: Versatility

$75 Buy Now at Vans

This Knu Skool style is a reissue of the ’90s low-top shoe. Each detail puts a modern twist on the Old Skool Vans while staying on trend — just take the distinct, puffy tongue that’s accompanied by a 3D side stripe. They also boast heel pulls, which make the shoes easy to get on.

What testers say: “Love the new look and style! And the comfort is beyond great.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $75

Vans Mary Jane Creeper Shoes

Size range: 6.5 to 10 men’s; 5 to 11.5 women’s
Colorways: White, black, leopard, and purple
Materials: Synthetic uppers, rubber toe caps, rubber waffle outsoles
Special features: Buckle closures
Best for: Comfortable dress shoes

$75 Buy Now at nordstrom

$75 Buy Now at vans

Vans’ Mary Jane Creeper Shoes beautifully blend the timeless Mary Jane dress shoe with the brand’s incomparable durability and comfort features. Stacked on a thick rubber waffle sole, the ’90s grunge-inspired silhouette features an elastic strap dotted with edgy grommets, plus a roomy round toe that’s ideal for those with wide feet, bunions, or long days on your feet. Pair them with knee-high socks or patterned tights in full “coquette-core” fashion, or wear them with straight-leg jeans for a vibe that effortlessly reads cool-girl chic.

What testers say: “I LOVE the style of these! They’re very comfy and they’re true to size with a little extra wiggle room (but not too much) to wear with cute, thicker socks. The black bottoms are perfect for getting dirty over and over again, and I feel like the top material is much easier since it’s not canvas, so any hair or water tends to run off of it better. They were ultra comfy right out of the box too to go on a walk! Highly recommend these.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $75

Vans Hylane Shoes

Release date: 2024
Size range: 6.5 to 13 men’s 5 to 14.5 women’s
Colorways: Brown, black, white, white and green, yellow, all-black, white and blue, and more
Materials: Suede uppers, rubber waffle outsoles
Special features: Puffy skate tongue, cement cupsole, compression side channels
Best for: Skateboarding

$90 Buy Now at zappos

$90 Buy Now at vans

Similar to the Upland, the re-introduced Hylane sneaker brings a bold skater silhouette with luxe suede or leather uppers and an oversized tongue. The retro shoe comes elevated with 3D glossed Sidestripes, embroidered detailing, and added padding along the collar and tongue.

What testers say: “Crazy comfortable! Has become my go-to! Just a sick design overall!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $90

Vans Era Shoes

Release date: 1976
Size range: 6.5 to 13 men’s; 5 to 14.5 women’s
Colorways: 9 options for men; 9 options for women
Materials: Sturdy canvas uppers
Special features: Padded collar for ankle support
Best for: Everyday wear

$59.95 Buy Now at zappos

$55 Buy Now AT VANS

Vans’ Era shoe is a skateboarding design, through and through. The pair is crafted with a low-top profile and is paired with padded collars that cushion your ankles. At the time of their launch in 1976, the shoes were Vans’ first pair also to showcase the Off The Wall heel tab, which remains a favorite of skaters and surfers alike. Although these are some of the best Vans for skating, the shoes are comfortable and supportive for any activity, even if you’re just running errands.

What testers say: “They fit true to size and are really comfy. In my experience, flat-sole shoes can be uncomfortable, but these are nicely padded all over. They look very stylish as well. They sit pretty low around the ankle, so a pair of no-show socks works great with them.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $55

Vans Classic Slip-On Stackform Shoes

Release date: 2020
Size range: 6.5 to 10 men’s; 5 to 11.5 women’s
Colorways: 4 options for men; 4 options for women
Materials: Sturdy canvas uppers, rubber waffle outsoles
Special features: Checkerboard print, elastic side accents

$70 Buy Now at nordstrom

$70 Buy Now at Vans

For those looking for the best chunky sneakers, platform sneakers, or cute walking shoes for women, the Classic Slip-On Stackform shoes are made for you. The chunkier heel offers an aesthetic detail to the classic slip-on, while the signature padded collars still give support. These Vans platform shoes come in four colors, ranging from classic white to a checkerboard print.

What testers say: “These platforms are very comfortable, and I even went half a size down bc my other slip-on platforms run a bit big. Half a size down is perfect. I wore them all day while standing on my feet. I’m a hairdresser, and I was fine! Get them! They are cute. The color is cool, the platform is nice, and I like that they are suede.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $70

Vans Sport Low Shoes

Origin of release: 1990s
Size range: 6.5 to 13 men’s; 5 to 14.5 women’s
Colorways: 8 options for men; 8 options for women
Materials: Suede uppers with leather accents
Special features: Suede uppers with leather accents
Best for: A lightweight fit

On Sale 22% off

$54.95 Buy Now at Vans

In the market for travel shoes? Vans will deliver with its Sport Low shoes, which are lightweight to pack and comfortable to wear on long strolls in new places. The design is inspired by Vans’ 90s heritage styles, and today, the shoes have a “V” side stripe in addition to the old-school logo label, and a lace-up closure. You also get the brand’s classic supportive padded collars and rubber waffle outsoles.

What reviewers say: “This might be my new favorite pair of Vans. I have over 40 pairs, and these are just a dream on my feet. They’re so comfy and lightweight. The purple/teal combo is incredible in person. Would love this shoe in more fun colors! Blues, oranges, greens! Anything loud, I’m game.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $54.95

Vans MTE Sk8-Hi Waterproof Insulated Shoes

Release date: 2024
Size range: 6.5 to 13 men’s; 5 to 14.5 women’s
Colorways: Green, black, all black, orange, brown, gray, red, and more
Materials: Synthetic uppers, rubber outsoles
Special features: Primaloft insulation, All-Trac outsoles, UltraCush EVA footbed
Best for: Hiking, winter weather

$144.95 Buy Now at Zappos

$150 Buy Now at vans

Need a sneaker you can wear in the snow? Vans has you covered. The MTE Sk8-Hi Waterproof Insulated Shoe innovates the high-top skate shoe with winter boot features, such as HydroGuard watertight bootie construction, Primaloft microfiber thermal insulation, and All-Trac outsole lug traction that’ll keep your foot stable atop slush, snow, and mud. It also features the brand’s UltraCush EVA footbed, waterproof suede uppers, and a vintage-inspired D-ring lacing system for added reinforcement, comfort, and durability.

Price upon publish date of this article: $144.95

Vans UltraRange EXO Shoes

Release date: 2020
Size range: 6.5 to 16 men’s; 5 to 17.5 women’s
Colorways: 20 options for men; 20 options for women
Materials: Recycled PET and polyester upper materials
Special features: All terrain-grip
Best for: Running

$99.95 Buy Now at zappos

$79.95 Buy Now at Vans

The UltraRange EXO Vans are designed for ultimate versatility: They function as hiking shoes on easy hikes, can double as workout shoes or weightlifting shoes in a pinch, and like all Vans, also make a stylish pair of everyday sneakers. They’re durable and have a rubber toe and forefoot shape that provides an optimal fit while keeping your feet comforted. Vans also added an EXO Skeleton that supports your toes and a heel lock that allows a secure fit.

What reviewers say: “30k steps a day for a month, and these were the only shoes I brought. Didn’t even break them in before I left. Never once did I wish I had brought any other shoes. They were cute to dress up, comfortable to be in all day, and even good for CrossFit (the main reason I went with this line). The best shoe I have ever invested in, and I will be buying them in every color.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $79.95

The History of Vans Shoes

Vans’ history began in 1966, when brothers Paul and James van Doren founded the Van Doren Rubber Company in Anaheim, California. The mission of the company was to provide the community with high-quality footwear — sans the expensive cost. The brothers began to produce and sell the shoes through their first store, which was adjacent to the factory that crafted each pair. The first pair of Vans sold was called the #44 Deck shoe — now known as the “Authentic” — which had a low profile silhouette that initially caught the attention of skateboarders. The shoes were the first of their kind to feature an outsole twice as thick as what other brands were crafting, and that rubber sole delivered impressive grip for skaters and athletes alike.

The brand kept expanding its offerings through the 1960s and 1970s, and in 1976, a modern iteration of the #44 shoes was reimagined by athletes Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta. The updated look included a padded ankle collar; you might recognize it as the “Era” model today. Vans kept expanding their shoes through the ’70s and, in 1977, added the Old Skool, Sk8-Hi, and Slip-On, which are popular with skateboarders, surfers, and BMX riders today.

1989 brought the Caballeros (inspired by skater Steve Caballero) shoes to life. Vans cut the collar off to provide more ankle movements so athletes could have more flexibility while skating. Over the next few years, the shoes evolved into the Half Cab, a mid-top option.

For decades, Vans held its own in the sneaker market and gained a new fan base with hip-hop artists like Lil Wayne, Kanye West, and Lupe Fiasco. This attention also caused the fashion world to pay attention, which prompted designers such as Marc Jacobs and Junya Watanabe to put their spin on the brand’s models.

Today, Vans has expanded its offering of classics to include trainers, high- and low-top silhouettes, and even platform shoes. Apart from new-and-improved designs, Vans has also introduced other materials (besides the traditional canvas the brand is known for) to their shoes. Vans shoes now come in synthetic materials like rubber and leather, allowing you plentiful options to choose from when shopping.

How Do Vans Shoes Fit?

Vans shoes are often true to size. The brand’s flexible canvas, suede, or soft leather uppers bode well for narrow to wide feet types, along with staple round-toe boxes that don’t pinch toes during intense activity or standing all day. However, keep in mind that Vans shoes lean more narrow, as they are designed for skateboarding where snug fits and side wall structure are ideal. Refer to the Vans shoe size chart to select your correct sizing for men and women.

Vans shoes also come in wide sizing for those who need more room. Several styles, including the Vans Classic Slip-On Shoes and Vans Sk8-Hi Shoes, offer wide-size options. If your foot is particularly wide, consider choosing a half size up than your usual size for extra wiggle room.

Luckily, Vans shoes rarely require a lengthy break-in period. After a handful of wears, the uppers will loosen and your feet will feel right at home in your new pair. But, if you need a tip for how to break in Vans Slip-Ons or other styles faster, consider wearing thick socks to stretch out the material or test driving around your house before you commit to a full day of wear.

How We Chose the Best Vans Shoes

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

Our editors studied Vans’ history, researched the market, combed through customer reviews, and looked at celebrity-loved styles to create this list of the best Vans shoes. From there, we assessed each pair and studied up on their special features, who they best cater to, and how durable they are. This guide to the best Vans shoes also includes shoes featured in Footwear News’ list of the Greatest Shoes of All Time. This list was created with expert input from our editorial team and a diverse panel of footwear industry insiders, as well as key metrics and data related to the popularity and historical significance of the included shoes. Learn more about us here

Meet the Author

Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book.

A University of California, Berkeley student pocketed $100,000 Saturday and won another $600,000 for disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Helene after making a field goal kick that has to be seen to be believed — and he did it all in a pair of Vans Slip-Ons.

As part of the weekly “College GameDay” kicking contest with NFL punter-turned-analyst Pat McAfee, Cal student Daniel Villasenor stepped up to the challenge. One of the first things McAfee calls attention to was Villasenor’s shoes: a pair of well-worn Vans Classic Checkerboard Slip-Ons. It’s then revealed that Villasenor waited in attendance overnight for the opportunity to appear on the show, making the feat he pulled off even more awe-inspiring. 

Villasenor was close yet unsuccessful on his first kick to win $75,000, but McAfee was so impressed, the show hosts gave the student another chance to send the ball through the uprights. The second chance bumped the potential winnings up to $100,000, and McAfee also pledged to add an additional $100,000 to the show’s $500,000 hurricane relief donation if Villasenor made it. 

“I might have gotten bamboozled here…He might have hustled me,” McAfee joked before the second kick.

And then, Villasenor nailed the 33-yard kick without breaking a sweat, causing the crowd to erupt.

“Damn Daniel!,” McAfee repeated after the winning kick, a reference to 2016’s viral video featuring high school students Daniel Lara and Joshua Holz, which coincidentally also took place in California. 

Vans exec Steve Van Doren, who is the son of late company co-founder Paul Van Doren, was quick to respond to the viral video on Instagram. In a collaboration post with the official Vans account, Van Doren pledged to match Villasenor’s winnings with an additional $100,000 donation to Helene relief. 

“Hi Daniel, this is Steve Van Doren from Vans,” Van Doren said. “We’re so proud of you, way to do a great kick today. We want to make sure we get ahold of you so we can bring you down. Want to give you some Vans shoes but we’re also going to match your $100,000 and send it to all the people from the terrible hurricanes that hit the south.” 

As for the game, the Golden Bears took a heartbreaking 38-39 loss to the Miami Hurricanes, but it’s hard to see the day as anything but a win for Villasenor and Vans.

OTW by Vans and Parra have linked up on the most soothing Half Cab you’re likely to see.

The Parra x Vans OTW Half Cab comes dressed in the signature color palette of the Dutch artist, as the suede upper features panels in green, blue, red, orange and pink. The collaboration isn’t just an exercise in mere color swapping, though. Pieter “Parra” Janssen’s label have given the iconic skate shoe new wavy paneling, as well as a custom tag with hand-drawn graphics including a sketch of a bird. Custom insoles then feature the hand-written message, “Don’t forget to skate in these” on the left shoe.

Another colorway of Parra’s Half Cab surfaced just before World Skateboarding Day featuring a more subdued makeup with white suede taking over much of the upper. That variant turned out to be a friends and family edition, with the more colorful iteration being made for the public.

In addition to being an artist, Janssen was signed to Vans as a professional skateboarder in the ’90s. “The Half Cab is my favorite skate shoe,” he said in a press release. “An instant classic embraced by the most skilled and stylish skaters of the time. I wanted to honor the original design while adding a personal touch.”

Janssen also said in a 2009 interview with Behance of his color scheme, which has been widely applied in streetwear and sneaker collaborations: “I like the poppy colors, like the oranges, blues, and pinks. This is the palette that makes me happy. From the clothing I put on, I’m very happy with these restrictions, and simplicity.”

The collaboration with OTW x Vans ends a years-long wait since Parra’s last sneaker collaboration, an SB Dunk Low made for the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. In addition to the sneakers, designed the Olympic uniforms for the U.S., Japan, France and Brasil skateboarding teams in the sport’s competition debut.

The Parra x Vans OTW Half Cab will release release September 23 through Sivasdescalzo for $160 and then September 24 through the OTW by Vans website for $135.

Shop Vans Skate Half Cab Shoes

Vans Skate Half Cab Shoes

On Sale 22% off

$69.95 Buy Now at vans

Vans Skate Half Cab Shoes

$85 Buy Now at vans

Vans Skate Half Cab Shoes

On Sale 22% off

$69.95 Buy Now at vans

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.

Somehow, Vans and Fuct have never collaborated in the more than 30 years since the pioneering streetwear brand was founded. That’s finally changed, with European boutique Slam Jam swooping in for an assist.

The Slam Jam x Fuct x Vans capsule features five total variants made up of the Authentic 44 and Old Skool 36. For the Authentic — which boasts options in black and white; blue and white; and red, blue and white — Fuct’s name gets an all over print covering all of the upper save for the suede vamp. A white sole unit then features Slam Jams’ mantra “Chaos Is Order” in raised, colorless form. All three brand logos are then printed on the insole, while Slam Jam and Fuct’s appear beneath a translucent outsole.

The Old Skool 36 features a similar treatment with options in black and white or blue and white, as the repeating print moves over to the sidewall. Slam Jam’s logo is debossed on the tongue of both sneakers, while Fuct’s does the same on the heel of only the Old Skool.

Aside from its influence in streetwear, Fuct is also responsible for a landmark Supreme Court decision. The brand applied for a federal trademark for its name in 2011, and it was initially rejected for being “scandalous.” A federal appeals court ruled in favor of Fuct in 2017, but an appeal from Donald Trump’s administration brought the case to the highest federal court. In 2019, the Supreme Court ruled that the Patent and Trademark Office could not deny trademarks to names that are “immoral” or “scandalous,” citing the First Amendment.

The Slam Jam x Fuct x Vans capsule has already dropped on Fuct’s website and sold out in all variants save for the blue and white Authentic, but two additional drops are scheduled for Thursday, September 19, through both Slam Jam and OTW by Vans’ websites. Pricing for the Old Skool is set at $130 and the Authentic $120.

Shop Vans Shoes

Vans Authentic Shoes

$55 Buy Now at Vans

Vans Old Skool Shoes

$70 Buy Now at Vans

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.