The Ultimate Vans Old Skool FAQ

The History of the Vans Old Skool

The third model released by Vans, the Old Skool was first seen in 1977, and was originally known as the Style #36.

It was the first Vans shoe to both feature the brand's now iconic Jazz Stripe, and leather panels for added durability. Combined with a canvas and suede upper, a padded collar for ankle protection, and the classic vulcanised rubber waffle sole, the sneaker was aimed squarely at the skateboarding community.

In the years that followed, the Old Skool was adopted by skaters and musicians alike, becoming a staple in the skateboarding and punk rock scenes. Its edgy, versatile look fit perfectly within the DIY attitude of these subcultures.

In the 2000s, high-profile collaborations with brands like Supreme, Fear of God and WTAPS helped elevate the silhouette from skate staple to streetwear essential, and its popularity exploded.

The Vans Old Skool is one of Vans' most iconic and best-selling sneakers, a shoe that not only helped define skate style, but that introduced some of the brand's most recognisable design elements.

Today, the model remains a core product in Vans' lineup, with newer versions containing UltraCush insoles, WAFFLECUP outsoles, and Duracap reinforcement to make them more comfortable and last longer.

Vans Old Skool: Answering Your Questions

Are Vans Old Skool good for skating?

Vans Old Skool are great for skating, especially the Pro version of the model. The padded collar offers ankle support, and the vulcanised waffle sole delivers excellent boardfeel and grip. The Pro version adds an UltraCush insole for impact protection, with Duracup underlays for extra durability and a tougher construction.

How does the Vans Old Skool fit?

Compared to other models by the brand, the Vans Old Skool tends to run quite large, so we recommend sizing down half to a full size.

Are Vans Old Skool unisex?

The Vans Old Skool is a unisex sneaker, available in both men’s and women’s sizing.

Are Vans Old Skool comfortable?

Vans Old Skool are great for everyday wear, with padded collars and a vulcanised sole for ankle protection and flexibility, and some versions featuring UltraCush insoles for improved shock absorption. However, their flat soles offer minimal arch support, and they lack cushioning for all-day standing or long walks.

Do Vans Old Skool stretch?

The suede and leather panels found on most uppers of the Vans Old Skool don't stretch much, and canvas will only stretch slightly, so the shoe won't loosen much after a mild break-in.

Are Vans Old Skool vegan?

Most versions of the Vans Old Skool are not vegan, built with suede and leather overlays. However, there are versions that feature canvas-only uppers, and some are released with a vegan label - it’s best to check the product description carefully.

How do I tie my Vans Old Skool laces?

For guidance on tying your Old Skool laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!

How can I clean my Vans Old Skool?

A Vans Old Skool is best cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix a mild detergent with some water, and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains, or for suede, use a suede brush (water can damage suede). Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.

For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.

Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.

Where can you buy Vans Old Skool?

Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the Vans Old Skool at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on Old Skool restocks and new releases!

Notable Vans Old Skool Collaborations

Vans Old Skool x Supreme

Supreme, a favourite collaborator of Vans, has frequently returned to the Old Skool. Their takes on the model feature everything from animal prints to camo to premium croc-embossed leather, and even reflective materials.

Some versions include understated branding, while others have oversized box logos or tongue tags. These collabs, often released in multiple colorways, are built in limited runs and sell out quickly.

Vans Old Skool x Stranger Things

Capturing the gritty, retro feel of the 1980s, the Vans x Stranger Things collaboration celebrated the popular Netflix series with a standout Old Skool model. Featuring a red and black print and chain-like Jazz stripe, the upper was covered in doodle-like graphics of throwing stars, axes and skulls for a proper high school vibe.

The sneaker was as much a tribute to the show’s aesthetic as it was to the era when the Old Skool first rose to prominence.