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.
Watch on FN
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.
Want More?
Kevin Bailey Maps Out the Road Ahead for Vans
The Top 10 Best Vans Collaborations
House Of Vans: Iconic Brand Celebrates 50th Anniversary With Global Events
Iconic Skateboarder Tony Alva On Vans, Music & Leaving A Legacy
