Are Vans true to size? Even if you know your own shoe size, sometimes when you've bought a new pair of sneakers they unfortunately don't fit right. So we're going to take a look at the different Vans sneakers available and make sure we find the right size for you.
How to determine your own shoe size
First of all, it is important to determine your own shoe size. When you order sneakers online, it is not as easy as when you walk into a shoe shop and can try on the shoe on the spot.
Here is what you need to measure your own shoe size:
- 2 sheets of A4 paper
- A pencil
- A ruler
How to calculate the dimensions of your foot:
Take a sheet of paper and the pencil, choose a wall you can stand upright against, and put your heel all the way up against it. It is best to put on the socks you will also wear in your new shoes. Secure the sheet of paper to the floor with tape or your weight and stand on it with your heel against the wall. It is best to ask someone to draw around your foot with the pencil. Once you have a nice outline, grab a ruler and measure the distance from the heel to the tip of your big toe. Record this result in centimetres.
Repeat this process on your other foot too. It may sound duplicate, but for many people, the sizes differ from one foot to another. Then take the largest foot as a reference to determine your shoe size using the appropriate table. Remember that information from different manufacturers may differ and therefore you should always follow their size charts.
The Sizing Guide for Vans
Vans Old Skool
The Old Skool was Vans' first skateboard model, designed to meet the needs of skaters for durability and functionality. The straightforward design allows for high versatility.
The Vans Old Skool runs quite large, therefore we recommend half or even a full size smaller.
Vans Knu Skool
Redesigned from the 90s, the Knu Skool has an exaggerated look with a chunky tongue, thick ankle collar, and a sturdy suede upper. The Vans Sidestripe adds to the look with its new thick, 3D shape.
The Vans Knu Skool is known to run true to size.
Vans SK8-Hi
The skateboarding world inspired this high-top sneaker, which offers enhanced ankle protection and support. The Sk8-Hi has since become a staple in multiple subcultures.
The Vans SK8-Hi also runs quite large. Therefore, we recommend a half to a full size smaller.
Vans Classic Slip-On
Inspired by boat shoes, the Classic Slip-On focuses on enhanced board-feel, grip, and durability in its design. Its versatile style makes it a fan favourite, and it incorporates ComfyCush and Duracap technologies.
The Vans Classic Slip-On fits snugly compared to other Vans sneakers. This is because the sneaker has no laces. However, it quickly adapts to your foot, although the sneakers may feel a bit narrow at first.
Vans Authentic
The Authentic is a classic Vans silhouette, with a sturdy canvas build and signature rubber waffle outsole. They're designed to provide superior board-feel and control.
The Vans Authentic is true to size. So if you wear size 39, we recommend ordering size 39.
Vans Era
Released in 1976, the Vans Era was the first Vans sneaker to feature a padded collar, improving the comfort exponentially. It continues to be a favourite around the world for its sturdy, stylish design, complete with rubber waffle sole.
The Vans Era fits true to size. The Era has a slightly thicker padding around the collar, which makes it fit tighter - as it should for a skate shoe. If you wear the sneaker more for daily use, you could choose a half size larger.
Vans Half Cab
The Vans Half Cab was designed with high performance in mind. It features a moulded heel counter, DURACAP reinforcement, a harder toe-box, and a sturdy suede and canvas upper. The gum rubber outsole has been improved with SICKSTICK rubber compound, and a POPCUSH sockliner offers superior cushioning and impact protection.
The Vans Half Cab is true to size. The sneaker has extra cushioning for your feet.
Vans SK8-Mid
The SK8-Mid was introduced in response to skaters cutting down their high-tops in the early 90s for more freedom and flexibility. It quickly became a classic, and highlights Vans dedication to their fan-base.
The Vans SK8-Mid runs quite large. We recommend a half to a full size smaller.
For more sizing guides for your favourite sneaker models, visit the Sneaker Sizing Guide page.
