When it comes to the world of skate culture and lifestyle footwear, one name has stood the test of time – Vans. Founded back in 1966 by the visionary Van Doren brothers, Paul and Jim, in the heart of sunny California, Vans has cemented its place as an iconic brand. Over the years, it has evolved into a contemporary lifestyle company, offering a wide range of footwear, apparel, and accessories. Vans’ most iconic styles, including the Vans Authentic, Vans Old Skool, and the Classic Vans Slip-On, have paved the way for over five decades of skate culture history. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the art of Vans sizing, ensuring you find the perfect pair for your style and comfort.
Understanding Vans Sizing
Vans sneakers are known for their impeccable fit, making the sizing process a breeze for footwear enthusiasts. Here’s what you need to know:
Vans Fit True to Size
The good news is that Vans sneakers are designed to fit true to size. This simplifies the sizing process and ensures that you can confidently select your usual size.
Half Sizes and Full Sizes
Vans shoes are available in half sizes, which adds another layer of precision to your fit. However, for sizes UK 11 and above, Vans offers only full sizes. If you typically find yourself in between two sizes, our recommendation is to go for the larger size. For example, if your regular size is UK 11.5, opt for a UK 12. This choice will guarantee a comfortable fit for all-day wear.
How To Measure Your Feet For Vans Shoes
Accurate measurements are the foundation of finding the perfect fit for your Vans shoes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure your feet:
- Foot Tracing
- Place a piece of paper against a wall and stand on it with your heel touching the wall.
- Ensure even weight distribution and stand up straight.
- Trace the outline of your foot using a pen or pencil, holding it straight up and down.
- Measure Foot Length
- Use a ruler to measure the length of your foot from the heel to the tip of your longest toe. Keep the ruler straight and parallel to the paper’s edge.
- Measure Both Feet
- It’s common for one foot to be slightly larger than the other, so measure both to ensure the best fit.
Once you have your measurements, consult the Vans sizing chart on their website, which correlates your foot length with the corresponding Vans shoe size. Keep in mind that different styles may have slight variations in sizing, so refer to the specific style’s sizing chart.
When trying on Vans shoes, pay attention to the fit in key areas, including the toe box, heel, and arch. The toe box should offer comfortable toe-wiggling room, the heel should be snug but not tight, and the arch should provide support without constricting.
By following these steps and considering fit, you can ensure your Vans shoes are a perfect match.
Vans Sneakers Size Chart
UK | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
US (men) | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 |
US (women) | 7 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 |
EU | 38 | 38.5 | 39 | 40 | 40.5 | 41 | 42 | 42.5 |
Length (cm) | 24 | 24.5 | 25 | 25.5 | 26 | 26.5 | 27 | 27.5 |
UK | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
US (men) | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
US (women) | 11 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14.5 | 15.5 | 15.5 | 16.5 |
EU | 43 | 44 | 44.5 | 45 | 46 | 47 | 48 | 49 | 50 |
Length (cm) | 28 | 28.5 | 29 | 29.5 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 |
Reviews Of Specific Vans Styles And Their Fit
Reading reviews of popular Vans styles can provide valuable insights into their fit and comfort. Here are detailed reviews of some favorite Vans styles:
Vans Authentic
- A classic low-top style known for running true to size, offering a snug fit that breaks in over time.
- The canvas upper is flexible and breathable, while the rubber sole provides good traction and durability.
Vans Old Skool
- This iconic style tends to run a little large; consider sizing down if you’re between sizes.
- The suede and canvas upper is durable, and the padded collar adds extra comfort and support.
Vans Sk8-Hi
- The high-top style is known for running true to size, offering a snug fit that requires some breaking in.
- The canvas and suede upper is durable, and the padded collar and heel provide additional cushioning.
Vans Slip-On
- Slip-Ons tend to run slightly large; sizing down if you’re between sizes is recommended.
- The canvas upper is flexible, and the elastic side accents make slipping the shoe on and off a breeze.
Vans Era
- The Era tends to run true to size, offering a snug fit that breaks in over time.
- The canvas upper is durable, and the padded collar provides extra cushioning and support.
The History Of Vans Shoes
Vans shoes may be synonymous with skateboarding today, but their journey began in 1966 when Paul Van Doren, Gordon Lee, James Van Doren, and Serge Delia founded the Van Doren Rubber Company. The initial focus was on selling directly to the public, marketing their shoes as the “Deck Shoe.”
The first Vans shoes were simple canvas slip-ons with rubber soles designed for superior skateboard grip. This led to their rapid adoption by skateboarders in the 1970s. By the 1980s, Vans had achieved iconic status, worn by skateboarders and rock stars alike.
In recent years, Vans expanded through collaborations with brands like Supreme and Disney, broadening its product line to include clothing and accessories. Yet, the heart of Vans remains its shoes, renowned for their comfort, durability, and unique style.
The history of Vans shoes is a testament to their quality and design, making them a top choice for those seeking comfortable, durable, and stylish footwear.
Find Your Perfect Fit
Now that you have the tools to understand Vans sizing, you can confidently choose the right fit for your style. Whether you’re aiming for a classic look with Vans Authentic, the timeless appeal of Vans Old Skool, or the easy-going comfort of the Classic Vans Slip-On, you’re sure to make a statement.
Choosing the right size of Vans shoes is crucial for ensuring comfort and performance. By understanding the factors that affect Vans sizing, measuring your feet accurately, and considering the fit of specific styles, you can confidently select the perfect pair. Vans’ rich history, diverse styles, and commitment to quality make them a top choice for anyone seeking exceptional footwear.