Vans reviews and discussion

4.3

85% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Timeless, versatile aesthetics
  • Durable, long-lasting construction
  • Comfortable everyday wear
  • Wide color and style variety
  • Thin, unsupportive soles
  • Limited arch cushioning
  • Canvas uppers cause rubbing
  • Weak traction on slick surfaces

Vans earns largely positive reviews for stylish, timeless sneakers that hold up for years and feel comfortable for everyday wear, with standouts like Old Skool, Slip-Ons, and The Lizzie proving durable and skate-ready. Reviews also flag notable drawbacks: thin, flat soles with minimal cushioning or arch support, cold seeping through the outsole, occasional traction issues, and break-in discomfort for some canvas slip-ons.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

31 reviews and posts

  • Love how stylish these shoes are and go with so many spring outfits. They are definitely flat so don't expect too much support - still enough to walk around and would wear them for more casual things and bopping around. I sized up half a size for a little more room!

    Verified purchase

  • Vans offers a variety of very classic styles that are cute for normal day wear, but they have almost very thin soles/no cushioning and are not comfortable if you are walking long distances or on uneven ground.

    Verified purchase

  • Vans is a great company that makes casual and stylish shoes. I love their slip ones and the variety of designs available. They're decent quality and are fairly comfortable. Vans clothes are also super cute and stylish and made with good material

  • Vans has long been an iconic brand rooted in skate and street culture — born in 1966 in Anaheim, California. ([Wikipedia][1]) Their classic silhouettes like the [Vans Old Skool]() and [Vans SK8‑Hi]() are instantly recognizable, versatile for everyday wear and have serious style credibility. The appeal lies in their simplicity, iconic side stripe, and how they bridge skateboarding heritage with casual fashion. If you’re looking for a stylish canvas/suede sneaker that shares a timeless look and cultural legacy, Vans hits the mark. What’s Not So Good However, the brand has increasingly drawn criticism for several issues: * Many customers report long delays in shipping and problems with online orders or returns. ([Trustpilot][2]) * Some portions of the community feel the quality of shoes has declined in recent years — for example: > “The quality is not great. The last two pairs … the soles started peeling immediately” ([Reddit][3]) * There’s also concern about inconsistent manufacturing depending on where/through whom you buy them. Some Reddit users note that outlet or wholesale versions feel cheaper. ([Reddit][4]) **Should You Buy Them?** If you value aesthetic, brand heritage, and a good-looking every-day sneaker for casual use — yes, Vans is absolutely a solid choice. The Old Skool and SK8-Hi remain staples. But if you need performance durability (say for serious skateboarding) or expect premium materials/quality for every pair — you might want to check carefully: pick the right model (the “pro” or skate-specific lines), buy from a reputable store, and inspect construction (sole bonding, stitching). **Bottom Line** Vans offers a strong style foundation and cultural relevance that few brands match in its segment. But the experience is somewhat mixed in recent years in terms of quality control and online service. Buy for style and casual wear, but approach expecting “good enough” rather than “top-tier performance”.

    Received a free product from Vans
  • Have repurchased multiple pairs of the loafer slip on vans. Comfortable, cute style, easy to take on and off. They’re not too bad for long walking either, but I’d recommend a shoe with more arch support for super extensive distances or while on trips.

  • Hands down, the best classic skate shoe around. Great styles, comfortable, and durable. They definitely outlast Converse.

  • I feel that these are the best casual sneakers out. They come in a ton of designs as well as solid colors. They are easily dressed up or down depending on how you style them. The comfort is there and the price can not be beat. Some sneakers can feel so young, but these are more like a staple (regardless of age).

  • My boyfriend got me into Vans. They’re literally the only sneakers he wears. I love that they come ready to wear I don’t have to worry about breaking them in. As someone who works on their feet I can appreciate the comfort. Only drawback is that I can feel the cold through the soles. I worked at a grocery store for 5 years and I had to wear thick socks or my feet would be cold.

  • Poor quality. Do not buy these shoes. Absolutely zero cushion or arch support, and no traction on slick roads and sidewalks. Feels like walking directly on pavement... and although I normallt clock over 10 km a day with no trouble, having worn these over a 2 week trip in Europe, caused severe heel pain and am still limping after a month at home. Expected a lot more from name brand shoe.

  • I've only tried one pair of shoes from this brand, and that's when they did that collaboration with Nintendo in 2016. I got myself a pair of the Duck Hunt shoes. They look really cool even coming in a shoebox that resembles an NES. The unfortunate part is that the shoes don't offer any support on the bottom. They are only for aesthetics.

  • This brand has comfortable and timeless pieces. Love their clothing, shoes and socks. The prices are decent for the quality and would especially buy if on sale

  • the most reliable shoe. I wore mine so much they got incredible thrashed, but I keep repurchasing because they're cute and practical

  • vans are a great brand! good for the price and quality. they will last you years and I love how customizable they are. they are pretty thin at the bottom and not great for walking miles on end but they do the job at school or work.

  • Every highschool student has this and I do too. It looks so pretty and also comfortable enough to use it everyday.

  • A couple of years ago I had vans sneakers and I wore them a lot, they were made very well.

  • Every pair of vans I own have lasted for at least ten years. They're classic, surprisingly durable, and stylish. I'll definitely buy a few more!

  • Such a classic brand and definitely feels like has made a comeback. I have a few different pairs. Especially love the slip ons