Note: This page was last updated Nov. 29, 2018.
Skaters are notoriously fickle, but Vans has found a way to keep them loyal since the brand’s creation in 1966 with its arsenal of great-looking high-performance shoes. FN looks back at 10 of Vans’ most iconic kicks.
Authentic
Debut: 1966
This style was Vans’ first deck shoe and has since been embraced by professional skaters for its durability and grip.
To buy: $52, urbanoutfitters.com.
Era
Debut: 1976
The Era style was designed by pro skaters Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta. It was also the shoe that launched the “Off the Wall” logo.
To buy: Available in a similar colorway for $50 at zappos.com.
Classic Slip On
Debut: 1977
The iconic slip-on rose to fame after being worn by Sean Penn’s surfer character Jeff Spicoli in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.”
To buy: $50 at zappos.com.
Old Skool
Debut: 1977
The Old Skool sneaker debuted the brand’s now-signature Jazz Stripe — a design that began as a random doodle by founder Paul Van Doren.
To buy: $60 at zappos.com.
SK8-HI
Debut: 1978
The signature Sk8-Hi was born with a focus on new performance functions, like a higher silhouette shielding ankles from injuries.
To buy: $65 at zappos.com.
Half Cab
Debut: 1992
As more technical flip-tricks burst onto the scene, skaters began flipping the collar of their shoes down — thus, a lower half-cab style emerged.
To buy: $65 at zappos.com.
Chukka Low
Debut: 2006
Designed in collaboration with the Vans amateur skate team in 2006, the Chukka Low is now available in a variety of customizable finishes.
To buy: $65 at zappos.com.
Alomar
Debut: 2010
This popular skate style was the premium high-top version of the “106 Low Top.”
To buy: Available in a similar style for $90 at zappos.com.
Nexpa
Debut: 2011
The Nexpa is the look of choice for the Vans surf team. The clean, no-fuss sandal brings athletic foam comfort to its classic design.
To buy: Available in an all-black for $28 at tillys.com.
Chima Pro
Debut: 2013
The Chima’s updated design features new lightweight internal elements like a Duracap upper reinforcement that prolongs the shoe’s lifespan.
To buy: Available in a similar style for $70 at zappos.com.
All products featured have been independently selected and curated by our editorial team. If you buy something through the links included on our site, FN may earn a commission.
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