From Sk8-Hi to the Old Skool – here’s a breakdown of the five key classic Vans silhouettes.

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Classics never go out of style. And that’s the beauty of Vans sneakers – you can’t go wrong no matter what you pick. To help you make your choice, here’s an introduction to the five models that make up the Vans Classic silhouettes.

Vans Authentic
Born: 1966
Formerly known as: Vans #44 Deck Shoes

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Born in Anaheim, California in 1966, the Authentic is the original Vans heritage style which quickly became an immediate cult icon. Constructed with a simple low top, lace-up profile, this classic shoe also features sturdy canvas uppers, metal eyelets, and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

Vans Era
Born: 1976
Formerly known as: Vans #95

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The Vans Era was brought to life in 1976 and made popular by the legendary Z-Boys of Santa Monica. It was the first shoe to include the Vans padded collar, which completely changed the game for comfort. Featuring sturdy canvas uppers in a range of heritage colorways, the Era energizes the timeless low-top silhouette with effortless style. In addition to the supportive collar, this classic lace-up shoe comes equipped with metal eyelets and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

Vans Old Skool
Born: 1977
Formerly known as: Vans #36

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The Old Skool debuted in 1977 with a unique new addition: a random doodle drawn by founder Paul Van Doren, and originally referred to as the “jazz stripe.” Today, the famous Vans Sidestripe has become the unmistakable — and instantly recognizable — hallmark of the Vans brand. Constructed with durable suede and canvas uppers in a range of fresh colorways, the Old Skool pays homage to our heritage while ensuring that this low-top, lace-up shoe remains as iconic as ever. It also features reinforced toe caps, supportive padded collars, and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

Vans Slip-On
Born: 1977
Formerly known as: Vans #98

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Upon its debut, the Classic Slip-On instantly became an icon in Southern California. Fast forward to today, and the Classic Slip-On is known worldwide for its comfortable silhouette, easy wearability, and beloved design. Featuring the iconic Vans checkerboard print, the Checkerboard Classic Slip-On is an everyday essential with true “Off The Wall” style. This slip-on shoe also includes low-profile canvas uppers, supportive padded collars, elastic side accents, and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

Vans Sk8-Hi
Born: 1978
Formerly known as: Style 38

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The Vans Sk8-Hi was the first silhouette to showcase the now-iconic Vans Sidestripe on a new, innovative high-top silhouette. As only the second model featuring the recognizable marker formerly known as the “jazz stripe,” the Sk8-Hi brought a whole new look to the Vans family. Honoring that first legendary high top, the Sk8-Hi is made with sturdy suede and canvas uppers in a variety of classic and unexpected colorways. This lace-up shoe also includes reinforced toe caps, supportive padded collars, and signature rubber waffle outsoles. 

Looking to cop one of these classic Vans silhouettes? Head to Vans.com to find a store near you and drop by to try on one of their timeless skate sneakers.

Vans presents “Classic Since Forever”: A celebration of the Sk8-Hi