Vans Skate shoes at Skatestore
The original, first real skate shoe. It all started in 1966 in Anaheim, California. The Vans Authentic, then intended as a boat shoe, was quickly picked up by skateboarders in Southern California. The distinctive waffle pattern on the sole provided unprecedented grip on skateboards. When Vans noticed that skaters were riding en masse with the Authentic, they developed the Vans Era: the same shoe, but with extra padding around the ankles for more comfort and protection. Thus, the first real skate shoe was born.
From that moment on, things moved quickly. Vans grew to become the brand for skateboarders worldwide. Classic models such as the Old Skool (Model 36), Sk8-Hi, and the legendary Half Cab, which originated from the Caballero Hi, have become an integral part of skateboarding history. Over the years, Vans has released countless innovative models. Some modern favorites are the Vans Skate Rowan, Vans Skate Curren, and Vans Skate Ave 2.0, all with improved cushioning, durability, and board feel.
Some models highlighted:
- Vans Skate Authentic: the OG Vans shoe with pure board feel and timeless style.
- Vans Skate Old Skool: the classic that everyone has owned at some point, durable, stylish, and functional.
- Vans Skate Half Cab: an icon in street skating since the 90s and still just as relevant today.
- Vans Skate Sk8-Hi: high-top model for extra ankle support, popular with transition and bowl riders.
- Vans Skate Slip-On: perhaps the most relaxed (skate) shoe ever made, easy to put on, excellent board feel, and immortal in the checkerboard colorway.