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Best Vans Alternatives 2019: Shoes Like Vans But Better
When I’m planning for a casual outfit, Vans are usually my first preference. They are comfortable and stylish with shorts or jeans, tees or shirts. They are a great everyday shoe but they just don’t last for very long. I’m lucky if they last six months.
The first signs are tearing of the fabric around the collar of the shoe because I’m always slipping them on and off. Next, I notice holes around the toes. Not a good look. Although my main concern is how the soles wear down and begin to get holes. This means the end of the shoes for me.
I know other people have the same frustrations with Vans so I’ve put together a list of some solid alternatives, in a range of prices. Finding shoes with a durable sole and long-lasting upper, while also offering a stylish silhouette, is possible. Add some of these shoes to your weekly rotation and you’ll no longer need to buy new Vans every few months.
Sperry Striper CVO Salt-Washed Twill
This boat-friendly option, costing around $60, features salt-washed canvas that has a nice layer of cushioning in the tongue and collar. The insole is removable and very comfortable. The ‘Razor Cut Wave-Siping’ on the sole makes these great for any surface, wet or dry.
With a classic silhouette and offering the option of having laces or no laces, these shoes will pair perfectly with a pair of chino shorts and a bright summer shirt.
Superga 2750 Cotu Classic
The rounded toe and brand label on the outer seam are signature details of Superga, giving this shoe a slightly more unique aesthetic. The insole isn’t very supportive and isn’t removable, so you might need to wear socks to add cushioning.
For the price about $60, these are a relatively reliable canvas shoe that can be worn in a variety of ways. The shoe reportedly runs wide for some, so be mindful of this when ordering a pair. These are an affordable option if you’re just looking to add a basic shoe to your collection.
Shoes Like Pottery 03JP Low Sneaker
Bringing more casual vibes, these black canvas shoes are around $150 and are made in Japan. Featuring blue accent notes on the sole and the side wax stamp, these are a great casual shoe for everyday wear during the warmer months.
The sole is made of vulcanized rubber, which apparently makes the rubber more durable, although some reviewers report that the sole can begin to split along the rim after a year of wear. Style these with dark jeans, a tee and throw on a blue denim jacket to create a timeless streetwear look.
Adidas Skateboarding SMC
A very affordable alternative to Vans, Adidas’ ‘Skateboarding’ shoe costs about $60 and can be worn for much more than just skateboarding. With a cushioned collar around the ankle and a comfortable insole, this shoe is extremely well-rounded and is great value for the price point.
The materials of this shoe are geared towards keeping your foot supported during activity, so if you tend to walk a lot these are a good option for you. You can wear these with a more casual outfit of shorts and a tee or dress them up with chinos and fitted shirt.
Polo Ralph Lauren Thorton
If you prefer a more stylish sneaker then this is the option for you. At a great price point, usually around $70, the shoe features leather accents and an embroidered pony logo on the outer side. The insole is well cushioned, and the sole is both flexible and durable. The laces add a unique touch to the shoes.
A nice lightweight shoe made of breathable canvas, pair these with shorts and a colorful shirt for a comfortable spring/summer outfit. A great option to add to your summer shoe collection, wear somewhat sparingly to not wear these out too quickly.
Article No. Black & White 1007-2191 Sneakers
For a more eye-catching aesthetic, this may be the perfect shoe for you. For around $100-$150, these shoes are bringing serious vintage vibes with the checkered pattern and red logo label on the back heel.
Think ‘Pulp Fiction’. The midsole is made of handcrafted vulcanized rubber, so you should get a lot of wear out of these. There isn’t cushioning around the collar or tongue, but the insole is cushioned so it will support your foot.
You may experience some blisters when wearing them in. A great alternative to the Vans Checkerboard, style this shoe with neutral or monochrome pieces.
Saturdays NYC Black Suede Combo Vass Slip-On Sneakers
If laces aren’t your thing and you’re after a luxurious casual shoe, then look no further. Offering a part-suede, part-canvas upper, this stylish slip-on can be dressed up with chino shorts and a blazer or dressed down with a beach-friendly outfit.
For around $150, this shoe features a soft leather lining and comfortable insole. The low-profile silhouette and subtleness of the embossed label on the heel of the shoe allow you the freedom to wear these however you feel. These can be worn daily, as the suede upper around the toes of the shoe helps increase the shoes durability.
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Ox
Arguably the most well-loved shoe on this list, the ‘All Star Core Ox’ offers the classic Converse silhouette. The use of contrast in stitching and lines adds dimension to the design. Not a shoe that can be labeled as “classy”, this casual yet timeless shoe can be a daily option because of the versatility of the design.
As these shoes are around $50, they aren’t going to be lasting you for years, especially if you wear these multiple times a week. Once you break these in they will be comfortable, but the sole isn’t great for foot support. If you’re not bothered by the short lifespan of these shoes, then these are a solid option, especially for the relatively low price.