Which Vans Should I Get?

by Max Gerstenmeyer

The classic styling of Vans shoes is one of those timeless looks in fashion that never seems to go out of ‘season’. Ever since the 1960’s, Vans has been making the ‘authentic’ style that put them on the map, and remains iconic in streetwear and skate parks across the world. They have competed against the likes of Converse, Adidas, and other popular brands among the skating community. If you are reading this, you are likely interested in buying a pair yourself!

But, the age old question of ‘which vans should I get?’ is often brought up during the process. Let’s talk about Vans for a bit, and why Vans are better than converse, as well as how Vans became popular.

- How Vans Became Popular.

Like all things fashion, Vans popularity was a combination of a great product, mixed with some media recognition. Prior to the early 1980’s, Vans were considered a very ‘niche’ product in the California skate community. However, it was in 1982 when the Vans shoe made their media debut on the feet of actor Sean Penn in the iconic film​Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

From that point, Vans began to explode in popularity. This would catapult them into the position of the world’s most recognized skate wear brand. But this success was not to be short lived. Were Vans shoes popular in the 90’s? Absolutely. The partnership with Warped Tour in 1996 solidified Vans as one of the most popular shoes of the 90’s. This success and popularity only continued to grow, through adversity, and even today remains one of the most easily recognized shoe styles on the planet.

- Were Vans Made For Skateboarding?

Vans shoes were adopted by the local skating community of Anaheim. California, from very early on. In the early-mid 1970’s, skateboarding was becoming a phenomenon in California. Vans founder Steve Van Doren noticed how popular skateboarding was in the community, and began to market his shoes directly to them. He even drove skating legends Stacy Peralta, Jerry Valdez, and Tony Alva around in an actual van in order to go to skate events and display his shoes.

While competing companies like Converse were designed for basketball players, Vans were the first shoe really marketed and made for skaters and with them in mind. As far as the skate community is concerned, this is why Vans are better than Converse. So while Vans were not​originally​made for skateboarding, they quickly adopted the image and the sport and have followed it ever since.

-So, Which Vans Should I Get?

To be honest, it really all boils down to the Vans that you like the most. Vans is a company which has built the trust and loyalty of the skate, festival, surf, and overall ‘California vibe’ communities for decades. As such, you really can’t go wrong. If you like the classic 80’s slip-on style, or if you prefer the original authentic style that is making a resurgence; it doesn’t matter, as all of them are timeless in their own way. Vans has created an image, a brand, and a quality that stands the test of time.

Which Vans should you get? The ones that fit you the best.

When you got your Vans you should also find some cool new Shirts or Hoodies that go well with your Vans. Go check out https://www.maxmellow-apparel.com/ for amazing, high quality skate- and surfwear.