About Vans
Our purpose to enable creative expression and inspire youth culture is fostered through our inclusivity. We welcome anyone and everyone into our global family and proudly celebrate an environment where individuality is embraced, equal opportunities thrive, and everyone is empowered to reach their greatest potential.
Vans is part of VF Corporation, a Purpose-led, performance-driven and value-creating organization. Our relentless pursuit of business success is fueled by our desire to use our scale and resources to improve people’s lives and make the world a better place.
We don’t just make the world’s best apparel and footwear, We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. VF Corporation outfits consumers around the world with its diverse portfolio of iconic lifestyle brands, including Vans, The North Face, Timberland, JanSport and Dickies.
Founded in 1899, VF is one of the world’s largest apparel, footwear and accessories companies with socially and environmentally responsible operations panning numerous geographies, product categories and distribution channels.
Overview of Vans
My first pair of Vans was a gray set of Authentics. At the time I was in college, and I bought them to go with all the red I’d be wearing as an undergrad at Ohio State. I wore those babies until they were in pieces, which was over two and a half years later. I loved those shoes like a favorite pair of jeans.
Since then, every few months, I buy a new pair of Vans. They’re my go-tos no matter the occasion. While I’ve tried all different styles over the years, the OG Authentics remain my number one.
Authentics are one of Vans’ most popular styles, which makes sense, as they’re the shoes that started the skateboarding brand in 1966. The low-top skate shoe features a simple, lace-up design and a casual canvas upper.
While Authentics have existed for 55 years, Vans releases new colors and patterns several times a year. There are a few classic pairs: black with a white sole, all black, and all white. Then there are the patterned options: patchwork floral, cheetah print, retro mart, and gum sole. And then there are even more options at local skate shops or stores like Journeys that are no longer sold online.
Vans Authentics come in men’s whole and half sizes 3.5 to 13, which translate to women’s whole and half sizes 5 to 14.5. They start at $50 per pair, which is comparable to other canvas shoes from Converse, Adidas Skateboarding, or Polo Ralph Lauren.
Vans Product Review
While there are plenty of different skating shoes to choose from, Vans are some of the best of the bunch. Known for their uniquely grippy rubber soles and a favorite of early skateboarders, Vans shoes have become the go-to shoe for skaters of all ages and experience levels.
No matter how — or what — you ride, Vans makes quality skate shoes you can depend on. Check out our picks for the best Vans for skating right here.
The Era is the original Vans skate shoe. As the very first shoe created by Vans, this is a true staple for skateboarders. Designed back in 1976 in partnership with skateboarders Tony Alva and Stacey Peralta, the Era is a low-cut shoe with clean lines and simple design features.
Vans Unisex Old Skool Classic Skate Shoes
Vans Unisex Old Skool Classic Skate Shoes are a fantastic pair of shoes for any skateboarder — and that’s why they’re our top pick. These are truly classic shoes, featuring the trademark Vans side stripe and several benefits that’ll keep you on your feet for a long time.
These low-top sneakers are constructed specifically for durability in the areas skateboarders need it most. They have reinforced toe caps that can withstand repeated wear from various tricks and a padded ankle collar for extra comfort and support.
The cushioned, die-cut EVA foam footbed offers superior shock absorption as you hit the pavement and your board. And the vulcanized rubber sole in the trademark Vans waffle print is flexible yet provides you with incredible grip, strong traction, and solid boardfeel.
Vans Men’s Vn-0tuy187 Sneaker
The Vans Men’s Vn-0tuy187 Sneaker, which is also known as the Atwood sneaker, is a shoe that’s designed for active wearers. Built to survive walking, running, skateboarding, and so much more, this Vans shoe is a great option for skaters who want excellent durability at a good price.
It offers good value for your money. Each pair is constructed out of a canvas upper, a vulcanized midsole, and a gum rubber sole. A padded ankle collar and tongue offer extra cushioning, and a lightly cushioned footbed keeps your soles protected.
As you wear the Atwood sneaker, it’ll loosen and conform to your foot to keep you perfectly comfortable. It’s even designed with street style in mind, making it a bit more fashion-forward than many other basic skating shoes.
Vans Authentic Core Classic Sneakers
Vans Authentic Core Classic Sneakers are perhaps the quintessential Vans shoe for skating. As one of the very first shoes created by Vans, it’s a classic among skaters — and for good reason. The Authentic is a show that combines light weight with maximum flexibility so you’re never held back on your board.
Made with a canvas upper and a cotton lining for breathability, you can keep your feet cool without adding extra weight. A die-cut EVA insert cushions and adds comfort for your feet.
The sole features a slimmed-down profile and vulcanized rubber, with a gum rubber outsole and the signature Vans waffle tread for superior grip. You’ll feel your board under your feet while you ride, and you’ll be able to perform tricks with the right balance of stability.
Vans Unisex Era Skate Shoes
If you’re searching for Vans for skating that have a stamp of approval from pro skaters, you won’t want to miss the Vans Unisex Era Skate Shoes. When the Era shoe was first released in 1976, it was instantly famous among skateboarders — and it was designed by Tony Alva and Stacey Peralta, two skating legends.
Today, these shoes still feature the same function and design, and they’re wonderful for skaters of all experience levels. They feature a low-profile silhouette, have an extra grippy waffle-patterned sole made from vulcanized rubber, and come in a vast array of colors and materials.
When you wear these Vans for skating, you’ll have the right balance of board control and feel under your feet on all types of terrain. A padded collar supports your ankles, and double stitching offers extra durability.
Vans Women’s Old Skool Core Classics
While most Vans for skating are designed to be unisex and fit any wearer, some are designed just for specific genders — and that’s what the Vans Women’s Old Skool Core Classics offer. With a slightly different, more feminine design and styling, these shoes feature all of the benefits of skating shoes made just for women.
Each pair is decorated with Vans’ signature curved stripe and colored trim. The shoes feature a canvas upper, with double-stitched toe caps for extra durability and a die-cut EVA midsole for extra comfort.
A gum rubber outsole gives you the right amount of grip, and molded TPR side trims cushion the ankles. You’ll be able to easily feel your board beneath your soles, and the slim profile of these women’s shoes will help you maintain your flexibility.
Vans Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
Now, we’re onto the exciting part of this Vans sneakers review: What do customers think of the brand? We scoured the internet for feedback but came up a bit short. Unfortunately, the only testimonials we could find were on the main website, along with a short thread on Reddit.
There are a couple criticisms, but we can talk about those later. Here’s the average star rating for the products in this review:
- Women’s Lace Up Sneaker: 4.5/5 stars from 126 reviews
- Women’s Slip On Sneaker: 4.7/5 stars from 26 reviews
- Men’s Lace Up Sneaker: 4.5/5 stars from 67 reviews
- Men’s Slip On Sneaker: 4.6/5 stars from 12 reviews
People are raving about the Women’s Lace Up Sneaker, with one customer writing, “Versatile, chic, sporty, comfy, SUSTAINABLE. Just a handful of words I would use to describe my fave sneakers ever.”
Another reviewer writes, “Perfect white shoe and so so comfortable! Fits true to size, and they aren’t kidding when they say you can wear without socks and still not get funky feet. Truly in awe.”
When it comes to the Men’s Lace Up Sneaker, buyers can’t get enough of that style either. One commenter says, “These are awesome! Comfy and stylish, I love them so far. Have been an everyday wear for a little over a month now, and no signs of wear and tear for me.
As the brand is fairly new on the scene, it’s understandable that some customers might be hesitant to invest in a pair. Fortunately, it seems that most shoppers have only had positive experiences after breaking in their shoes. One buyer left this honest review:
“I’m not normally an early adopter. I prefer to let new products like this cycle through one or two iterations before I buy. But the TF proposition was too cool to pass up. I bought a white pair and I couldn’t be happier. After a short and simple break-in, the shoes were money. I’ve been wearing them for a couple months and they still look like I just took them out of the box. Couldn’t be happier.”
Guys sing more praises when it comes to the Men’s Slip On Sneaker, too. One review reads, “I like the slip-ons for biking – no laces getting caught up in the chains! And they are effortless to slip on for that last dog-pee-walk at night. A great rest from tying laces.”
We also found a Reddit thread where one user talked about being satisfied with the shoe. The only criticism they had was that the shoes might be suitable for wider feet. It may take a bit of time for them to stretch out.
There are a few other criticisms as well regarding customers getting blisters during their break-in period, and others talked about the seams bursting after continuous use. While some inconsistencies in manufacturing could be addressed, the majority of people are happy with Vans, as reflected by high ratings!
Is Vans Worth It?
Now more than ever, it’s evident that fashion needs to keep up with the changing climate. Vans has created footwear and a recycling program that prioritizes the planet and their consumers simultaneously.
Based on this Vans sneaker review, we would say that these kicks are worth checking out. White shoes are a foolproof addition to your wardrobe. With the added bonus of a leather alternative that can be recycled safely, there aren’t many problems with the company.
Vans Promotions & Discounts
Vans offers a 20% discount for students with Student Beans. Anyone over 16 years of age and enrolled in full-time education is eligible for the promo. This perk can only be applied to full-priced sneakers.
Other than that, this Vans sneaker review couldn’t find active promotions. But, we recommend signing up for the company’s email newsletter for the latest deals.
Where to Buy Vans
Trying to get your hands on some Vans kicks? You can browse the entire collection over at Vans.com.
FAQ
Where are Vans sneakers made?
Vans sneakers are made at a family-owned factory in Brazil. Many of the materials are sourced nearby the facility.
Are Vans shoes recyclable?
Vans shoes are recyclable. You can send them back to the company to receive $20.
Is Vans ethical?
This Vans sneaker review found that the company is ethical and sustainable. They have a circular supply chain with materials sourced nearby the family-owned factory.
Why is it called Vans?
‘Vans’ derives from the company’s belief that Vanss of voices can make a change. ‘Fell’ also has a history of being another name for hides and materials. With this name, the brand aims to create a large number of sustainable textiles.
What is Vans’s Shipping Policy?
Vans offers free ground shipping in the continental US. It typically takes 24 hours for orders to process. After leaving the NYC warehouse, your new sneakers can take between 3 to 8 business days to arrive.
The company does not offer express or overnight shipping yet, but they state that it’s coming soon. Unfortunately, they don’t currently offer international shipping in any countries other than Canada.
What is Vans’s Return Policy?
Vans has a 30-day return policy. Shipping charges are covered unless you’re from Canada. If your return is 7 days late, you’ll automatically be processed for online credit. After 37 days, your item is ineligible for return and will be reshipped to you. You can initiate the process by emailing the customer care team.