Does Vans Use Real Leather? Best 268 Answer

ARE VANS SHOES VEGAN?

Since we first opened our doors in Southern California in 1966, Vans has been known worldwide for our iconic footwear silhouettes and use of natural materials like cotton canvas and rubber. While our product line has expanded over the years to include the use of leather in some of our shoes, many of our current models have been deliberately designed not to use any animal products.

While it is a challenge to ensure that absolutely no animal-derived substances are used, we actively work with our suppliers as well as external testing laboratories to confirm that not only our main materials are free of animal-derived substances, but also the glues, dyes and hardeners that we use are too.

If we can certify that certain products are completely cruelty-free, we will note this in the item descriptions so that you can identify them more easily.

According to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, sneaker prices have risen steadily over the past year — and those prices could rise even more as the holiday season approaches.

According to the bureau’s monthly report, overall consumer prices rose 5.4 percent year-on-year in September, with shoe prices showing significant inflation. The cost of men’s shoes increased by 5.5 percent, women’s by 4.9 percent and children’s shoe prices by 11.9 percent. Much of this can be attributed to the pandemic, which even now, almost two years after it began, has continued to cause shortages in workers, supply chains and products.

Limited Supply, Insatiable Demand – Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) found that footwear prices have experienced the fastest rate of increase in the past 20 years, with prices up 3.2 percent year-to-date. According to the FDRA’s monthly report, which is detailed by Footwear News, the main causes of the price increase are import tariffs, as well as tariffs and higher wages for retail workers. Footwear import fees rose $146.3 million in August, with tariffs also rising to $320.6 million, the FDA reports.

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Still, demand for sneakers in particular could explain their rising costs: since the pandemic began, the sneaker industry has benefited from athleisure trends that are expanding its population. Whether buyers were starting to run or interested in celebrity collaborations, companies were able to cater to a larger group of consumers and sometimes make the most of product shortages.

As shown by Nike’s Travis Scott sneakers and Adidas’ Yeezy loafers, there’s nothing people love more than exclusivity – an opportunity to feel special as a shopper. There’s pride in owning something so limited…but there’s a price too. Exclusive sneakers often sell immediately for $50 to $100 more than their original price and can thereafter be resold for thousands of dollars thanks to their limited availability. The latter only drives rising sneaker costs, with some looking to buy sneakers more as an investment than a style choice.

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A Muslim woman who bought a pair of shoes for $279 was outraged to discover the shoes were lined with pigskin after wearing them for six months.

Administrative assistant Nur Najwa Abdullah, 43, is demanding a full refund from foot care chain Happy Walker, claiming the store staff told her the shoes were made of calfskin.

Ustaz Firdaus Yahya, manager of the Darul Huffaz Learning Center, which promotes understanding of the Qur’an, said: “In Islam, anything related to pork, such as meat or skin, is considered unclean.”

Islamic experts say that while using pork skin products is not considered a sin, a Muslim should undergo a purification ritual if he or she has used the product.

Ms. Najwa bought the pair of brown shoes from a Happy Walker outlet at Velocity Mall in Novena last December. She wore them almost every day for half a year, even on a trip to Kuala Lumpur.

“I was very happy with the shoes. I have flat feet and it’s difficult to find wide-leg shoes that fit me,” she said.

But she was at the Star Vista mall in Buona Vista earlier this month to buy new shoes for Hari Raya when she saw a shop selling the same type of shoes she was wearing – accompanied by a sign saying that they had pigskin chow. “It was the shock of my life. How did that happen?” She said.

She complained to Happy Walker outlet and told the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) about it. Muis advised her to take off her shoes and wash her feet with water and clay, a ritual purification.

Ms Najwa said she reached out to The Straits Times because she wanted to raise awareness of the issue.

Teo Shu Tong, 57, store manager at Velocity’s Happy Walker Outlet, confirmed that he had received their feedback. “The outside (of the shoes) is made of cowhide, only the inner lining is made of pigskin. We didn’t know anything about it,” he said.

“Since she wore the shoes for six months, we proposed that we reimburse her for half the cost.”

He added that there hadn’t been any such complaints in Happy Walker’s seven years here. The retailer, which has five branches, is no longer stocking the line of shoes Ms Najwa bought because the “finish isn’t that good,” Mr Teo said.

“Our new brands (of shoes) will not be made from pigskin lining,” he added.

Ms Najwa wants a full refund and is considering going to small claims court.

Such cases are rare. Muis said this is the first time it has had such feedback; The Consumers Association of Singapore (case) has never received such complaints.

Shoe retailers Bata and Isetan said they usually have signs or labels identifying shoes lined with pigskin. Staff are told to point this out to Muslim customers.

Ustaz Firdaus said: “For the majority of Muslims in this part of the world, anything to do with pigs is to be avoided. Even calling someone a pig is considered a major insult.”

Muis said the onus is on the Muslim consumer to verify what material a product is made of. Case executive director Seah Seng Choon said Ms. Najwa’s story could be a case of false allegations.

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On the market since 1966, the legendary Vans can now be seen almost everywhere in shops and on people’s feet. Vans are made in California and in the 50 years of their existence have had a long history with many ups and downs.

Today, vans are incredibly popular and warmed by millions around the world. With dozens of different product lines, there really is a Van for everyone and every occasion.

But as a vegan, knowing what went into making your shoes is just as important as knowing what ingredients go into your food. You’d be surprised how many sneakers are made from animal by-products like leather, suede, and animal glue.

This often raises an important question for vegans: Are Vans vegan? Or should they be avoided?

To answer that question, let’s take a look at the different types of shoes the company makes and what goes into making them. By the end of this article you will know exactly whether you should buy or avoid Vans as a vegan.

What are vans?

Founded in 1966, Vans is an American footwear manufacturer specializing primarily in skateboard shoes and apparel. The California-based company also sponsors a number of sporting events and music festivals.

Since the company’s inception, Vans has produced a line of iconic shoes that have become incredibly popular around the world because of the celebrities and bands who wear them.

Some of their popular styles are Slip-On, Authentic, Old School, The Era and Sk8-Hi.

Are Vans vegan?

Many vegans often wonder if Vans are vegan, and unfortunately the answer is: It depends!

Because the company makes a range of different products and hundreds of different styles, some Vans are vegan and some aren’t. The vegan Vans are made primarily of canvas and synthetic rubber for the soles, while the non-vegan variants feature real leather instead.

This can make finding vegan vans incredibly difficult, as it’s often difficult to tell the difference just by looking at the pictures.

Unlike other vegan shoes out there, the manufacturer is not fully vegan and still has a range of both vegan and non-vegan product lines. Hopefully they’ll become fully vegan-friendly in the future, but for now you have to be careful about what styles you buy.

What are vans made of?

A common question many vegans ask is, “What are vans made out of?” Or more specifically, “Do Vans use real leather in their shoes?” Well, just like above, the answer is, it depends.

Many styles use no animal materials at all and pass all vegan tests. These shoes are typically the original Authentic and Epoche footwear collections. Other styles use animal-based materials like real leather, but only on select shoes. The most important thing is to understand the difference between the styles and do your research before you buy anything.

In the section below, we cover which styles are suitable for vegans and which ones you should specifically avoid.

Are Vans Old Skool vegan?

One of the most popular Vans lines is the Old Skool line, which consists of both low-top and high-top versions. Known for their chunky style, most Old Skool Vans include the logo on the side, which is made out of genuine leather, and are therefore not vegan-friendly.

Which vans are vegan?

To help you understand what kind of Vans are vegan, we’ve researched and handpicked a few that are 100% vegan and contain no animal by-products like leather or suede.

Slip-On Vans

The Vans slip-on lineup is exactly how you want it, no laces, just slip these shoes on and you’re good to go. Featuring a range of iconic patterns including the classic plaid, these slip-on vans have been worn by many celebrities and influencers alike. Featuring a canvas upper and rubber sole, these slip-ons are 100% vegan and contain no animal-based materials.

Authentic Vans

The authentic Vans line is the original shoe made in 1966. Staying true to its roots, this shoe is made from canvas with a rubber sole, making it 100% vegan. This incredibly light shoe is very flexible and is ideal for the hot summer months.

era Vans

Era vans are an updated version of the authentic range. With more cushioning, a more comfortable sole and a range of new colors, these shoes are great for long distances and will ensure your feet are comfortable. Just like the authentic one, the Era features a full canvas shoe with a rubber sole, making it 100% vegan friendly.

The Epochs are also available in a range of new styles including all-over prints and many limited edition prints.

Chukka vans

One of the newest additions to the Vans footwear line, the Chukka Low Tops are designed specifically for skating. They feature a more stretched shape while still maintaining the style of the era. Like the Eras, they’re made of canvas and have synthetic rubber soles.

If you are looking for a wild and unique pattern then chukkas are probably your best bet as they have a range of crazy patterns.

At some point in your life, you’ve probably either owned a pair of Converse sneakers or seen someone wear a pair of Converse sneakers. With increasing popularity in the 1920’s and 30’s, Converse became a global brand and today sells millions of shoes every year.

Famed for its legendary Chuck Taylor All-Stars, the company has grown from an athletic shoe manufacturer into a global fashion brand that produces many different styles of shoes.

Today, over 100 years after the company was founded, Converse are still as popular as ever with many celebrities and bands who wear them.

Due to its popularity, many vegans are now wondering: are Converse vegan-friendly? Or should they be avoided?

To help you make the right decision, we’ve done all the research for you, including what Converse is made of. Here you will find everything you need to know about the Converse brand and its shoes.

What are Converse made of?

If we were to say that Converse are made entirely of canvas and synthetic material, we would be wrong. But at the same time, if we said that all Converse are made of leather, then we would also be wrong. The truth is that different Converse styles are made from different materials, with the most common being canvas, leather, suede and synthetic rubber.

In addition to the materials, it is also important to learn about the glue used to glue the materials together. Many shoe manufacturers often use an animal glue that contains animal by-products to make the formula. However, Converse has announced that they use a special synthetic and non-animal glue for all of their products.

Aside from these materials and a bit of glue, there’s nothing else about Converse shoes. This makes determining whether they’re vegan or not pretty easy.

Are Converse vegan?

Are all Converse shoes with different product lines and materials used to make the shoes not vegan, or are there some exceptions?

According to an official statement from Converse itself, the company stated:

All of our adhesives are synthetic and not animal based. All of our canvas, Chuck Taylor All Stars styles are vegan friendly. While most of our materials are free of animal by-products, the products may be manufactured in a facility that may contain animal by-products. It is therefore not possible for us to advertise our products as truly vegan. Chuck ’70 switches to an embossed leather patch and updates the logo on the bumper plate sockliner so the CTAS ’70 is no longer vegan.

This means that while the materials used to make certain styles of shoes may be vegan, the factory that makes them may not. This is obviously a tricky situation because without seeing the factory it’s hard to tell if they’re vegan or not.

This means that there is no easy answer to the question. On paper, all materials in select styles like Chuck Taylor’s All-Stars are vegan-friendly. However, there is a small chance that they are made in a non-vegan facility.

Are Chuck Taylors vegan?

Chuck Taylors are the original shoes that Converse produced back in 1917. Both the high and low-top versions feature a canvas outer shell and synthetic rubber sole to create a lightweight, flexible and breathable athletic shoe.

Having been around for over 100 years, the editions have become extremely iconic and loved by millions. The good news is that these original shoes are actually vegan, and provided they’re made in an ethical factory, they meet all the requirements to be vegan.

These aren’t the only versions of Chuck Taylor’s All-Stars, however. Several leather versions have been made in recent years, featuring a leather shell and synthetic rubber sole. In many pictures they looked almost identical, but if you saw them in real life you could feel the difference in the leather.

Before you buy Chuck Taylor All-Stars, double-check the material on the site to make sure it’s Converse and not leather. Even better, if you can go to the store and see them for yourself, you can tell if they’re leather or not.

Should You Buy Converse?

So, as a vegan, should you buy Converse shoes or should you avoid them altogether? Well the answer is, it’s up to you!

If you’re a strict and die-hard vegan and don’t want to take any chances, you should probably look to more ethical manufacturers that use dedicated vegan-friendly facilities.

Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the best vegan shoes available in case you’re looking for ethical vegan alternatives.

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Originally known as Vans #36, the Old Skool debuted in 1977 with a unique addition: a random doodle drawn by founder Paul Van Doren and originally dubbed the “jazz strip.” Today, the famous Vans sidestripe has become the unmistakable – and instantly recognizable – hallmark of the Vans brand. Crafted with a durable suede and canvas upper in a range of fresh colorways, the Old Skool pays tribute to our heritage while ensuring this low-top, lace-up shoe remains as iconic as ever. It also features reinforced toe caps, supportive padded collars and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

When Rian Pozzebon, who was still relatively unknown in the sneaker community at the time, was offered the opportunity to join Vans in 2002 and help rebuild the brand’s ailing skate shoe lineup with longtime friend and colleague Jon Warren, he had a big question : “Will they let us play around with the classics?”

Back then, Vans wasn’t particularly interested in core models like the Slip-On, Old Skool, and Authentic. “The classics just existed,” says Pozzebon. “But they weren’t pushed.” Instead, they languished — in just a few basic colors — in Vans stores.

The company’s focus elsewhere has shifted to newer styles. After riding the wave of the ’90s skateboard boom, Vans faced new competition from younger skate shoe brands like DC and Osiris. These companies – founded just a few years earlier – favored a chunkier, more technically advanced silhouette (a word the fashion world uses to describe the shape of a shoe). Vans’ retro styling felt dated in comparison. At the beginning of the new millennium, almost a decade of sustained growth had collapsed – as had the goodwill of customers.

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“Are they going to let us play around with the classics?” – Rian Pozzebon

“I just never took it seriously as a lifestyle shoe. Ever,” says Brian Trunzo, senior menswear trend forecaster at WGSN, of his feelings about Vans at the time. Beset by new competition in its core skate market and ignored by trend-setting sneakerheads who favored the Air Force 1 or Adidas Superstar, Vans seemed poised to slide into oblivion.

Courtesy of Vans

And here Pozzebon – not even an employee yet – asked if he couldn’t look ahead to make his design decisions. It was a daring question, to say the least. And yet. “When we came and interviewed, they said, ‘Whatever it takes. Whatever you need,’” he recalls. Whether he knew it well at the time or not, he had landed on something that would prove crucial to the future success of the brand.

“It was this vintage piece,” says Pozzebon, now the company’s lifestyle footwear design director. “Back then, Vans didn’t necessarily know what they really had.”

By focusing on this element of the company’s DNA, Pozzebon and his design team took Vans through a turn that was nothing short of mind-blowing. The brand has become an integral part of American footwear culture, on par with iconic brands like Converse (which is twice its age) and Nike (which is almost 10 times its size). Vans are worn by celebrities and fashion influencers, the denim and t-shirt crowd that seldom cares about what’s stylish, teens and toddlers alike. What makes it all the more impressive – especially in a time of unprecedented technological innovation – is that it drew on just five classic styles to propel its cultural relevance that arguably has never been higher, as well as its sales that have undeniably never been higher.

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The first Vans Store courtesy of Vans

The Van Doren Rubber Company opened March 16, 1966 at 704 E. Broadway in Anaheim, California. Founded by brothers Paul and Jim Van Doren (along with business partners Gordon Lee and Serge Delia), the company took its name from Van Doren – unique in that it manufactured shoes locally and sold them directly to the public. The shoes themselves were unique for another reason.

“When my dad built the company – the shoe – he made the outsole twice as thick as the other competitors at the time,” said Steve Van Doren, Paul’s son and Van’s official vice president of events and promotions. (Unofficially, with his laid-back charm and boundless enthusiasm, he’s basically the spirit of the brand personified.) Although the first Vans classic—the #44, now known as the Authentic—was designed as a boat shoe, it wasn’t. It didn’t take long for early skateboarders to notice the increased durability and grip of the now signature waffle sole.

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Courtesy of Vans

By the mid ’70s, skateboarding was a real phenomenon with its own rising stars. Vans quickly caught the eye, driving guys like Stacy Peralta, Tony Alva and Jerry Valdez — all three of whom became legends in the sport — from place to place in a van and hooking them up with sneakers. Van Doren saw this as a simple compromise. A pair of free shoes for the boys in exchange for entry into a whole new community.

That year, with the help of Alva and Peralta, Vans launched the Era. Its padded collar offered added ankle protection and it quickly became the shoe of choice for skaters. The Old Skool, the first pair to sport the signature Vans “Jazz” stripe, was released a year later in 1977, followed by the Sk8-Hi in 1978.

Neale Haynes/REX/Shutterstock, Robert Beck/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images, Doug Pensinger via Getty Images

“I’m so loyal to them,” says Van Doren of the skaters, surfers, and other athletes who wore Vans in the early days. “You built our company. It was a small, small thing compared to football and basketball and baseball, but they’re super loyal.”

The ’80s, for their part, brought both ups and downs for Vans. On the high side (literally) was Sean Penn’s Jeff Spiccoli and his checkerboard slip-ons. Although the style debuted in 1977, it took Fast Times from Ridgemont High’s legendary stoner to propel the shoes – and the pattern – into the international limelight in 1982. Van Doren says the idea for the bold graphic was inspired by Vans customers. They colored the midsole themselves, and the brand took note. Despite its now iconic status, the decision to move the motif from the sole to the shoes’ canvas upper wasn’t a big decision at the time. As Van Doren recalls, it just came down to, “Okay, we’re moving it up.”

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The Checkerboard Slip-On Courtesy of Vans

“I’m so loyal to the skaters. They built our company.” —Steve Van Doren

The company took souring gains from its core styles and poured them into new ideas, like athletic sneakers designed for everything from volleyball to breakdance. It was a huge mistake and Vans overworked themselves. In 1984, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, repaid its $12 million debt by 1987, and was sold to banking firm McCown De Leeuw & Co. in 1988 — the same year it introduced Steve Caballero’s signature skate shoe.

Steve Caballero wears the Checkerboard Sk8-Hi Courtesy of Vans

As the ’90s rolled around, things picked up again. An IPO in 1991 took the company public, a partnership with the Warped Tour that began in 1995 spawned the longest-running concert series in America, and a cultural obsession with all things skating made growth so almost inevitable. A time long.

“We’ve had ups and downs in the history of this company,” says Van Doren. “We’ve had it for 51 years, and sometimes we got lost.” So, in 2002, Jon Warren and Rian Pozzebon got a call after a decade of success was met with a shaky bottom line and a sense of indifference among Vans customers.

There were missteps, especially in the beginning. “I’m looking at the first collection I ever built and there are some crazy wild shoes,” says Pozzebon. “They don’t even look like Vans shoes.” They were too technical, too experimental. “There was something like ventilation through the floor.”

For many young sneakerheads, Vans had once again lost their way. The new looks were irrelevant at best and downright cheesy at worst.

But that first collection was also key to Vans’ subsequent success. “We took a few classic silhouettes and rebuilt them, trying to get them as close to the original US specs as possible.” The new riffs on the old models were only allowed to be sold to specialty stores, not the back end the Vans-owned stores or wholesalers. “That was the first beginning of people getting involved with the old stuff, even within the company.”

“Vans reaped relevance and worked many years ago to ensure future success.” – Brian Trunzo

Not long after, in 2003, the Vault collection was conceived, a high-end take on the classics that would capture the attention of influencers and boutiques alike. “That’s 14 years ago,” says Pozzebon. “So once you start gravitating towards that, eventually it trickles down to where retro is as popular as it is, and people see Vans as something authentic for it.”

“They reaped relevance – they put in the work years and years ago to ensure future success,” says WGSN trend forecaster Trunzo.

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The Vans x Kenzo era Courtesy of Vans

There was another element at play. In 2004, Vans was bought by North Carolina-based VF Corp for $396 million in cash. acquired, which also includes The North Face, Timberland and Nautica (to name a few). “I was in China that day and got a call saying, ‘We’ve been bought! From a company called VF’,” says Van Doren. “Okay,” he asked himself at the time, “what’s that supposed to mean?”

Although so many stories go the other way, in this case it meant good things. One of the OG clothing giants – it was founded in 1899 – VF has an impressive reputation, especially given what hangs in the minds of many consumers about holding companies and conglomerates. “VF Corp. is really good at being a steward and parent company of companies,” says Trunzo. “I feel like every brand in their portfolio gets the right kind of attention and marketing money – and the right opportunity to explore their heritage, be authentic and grow.”

Shutterstock, Splash

Post-acquisition, this meant the range of classic styles was explored even further – especially after the re-released slip-on became popular. “That was sort of the beginning of the rise of Classics,” says Pozzebon.

Trunzo recalls being in New York in 2005 and noticing that the trend was catching on. “The checkerboard loafer started to be kind of cool with the hipsters in downtown New York,” he says. As influencers embraced it and the style began its inevitable journey into mass consciousness and popularity, there really was only one way forward for the situation: the market began to flood with cheap knockoffs.

The Vans x TakashiPom Slip-On courtesy of Vans

However, it’s not all bad. According to Pozzebon, competition ultimately eroded the slip-on’s popularity, which meant Vans was able to draw attention to its other styles. “We’re not just the slip-on,” he says, “we’ve got that too.”

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“This” generally means one of five key classics: Authentic, Era, Old Skool, Sk8-Hi, and Slip-On. (Pozzebon would love to see the Chukka join the fray; Van Doren likes the Half Cab.) Depending on which style tribes you’ve been keeping an eye on over the past few years, you’ve likely seen one or all of them make his Get in (and out of) the limelight. There are the post-Tumblr menswear guys who embrace the Authentic as a popular casual sneaker thanks to its lack of frills. Instagram-fed cool kids are rocking the Sk8-Hi precisely because of the bells and whistles — the padded collar, the jazzy stripe, the high-top silhouette. Or pretty much any guy who’s been wearing old skools lately.

“I have a feeling that the Old Skool is probably a new shoe for so many people that have been a part of Vans,” says Pozzebon. “You just never looked at it. And here it is, and I’m shocked.”

Frank Ocean and his mother Katonya Breaux at the White House in October 2016 Cheriss May/NurPhoto // Getty Images

The surprise is understandable. Though once the “smallest numbers” of the Classics program, the Old Skool has had a renaissance since last year, when guys like A$AP Rocky and Frank Ocean made it an unofficial part of their uniform. Add to that collaborations like those with legendary SoCal sneaker shop Blends (which brought back the rare “Bones” side stripe) and the ongoing shoe makeover of Supreme (which has been playing with the style since 1996) and It makes sense that people rediscover the silhouette. It’s almost impossible to walk down the street in 2017 and not catch at least one person — from confident fashionistas to regular jeans-and-t-shirt guys — wearing a pair.

“I think people know they can always come back to Vans and we keep changing and evolving the shoes and having fun with them, but it never leaves their foundation and their comfort zone,” says Pozzebon, adding to Old Skool, new styles like the UltraRange that improve on the technology but retain the style cues of the classics. “I’ll test and challenge them, but it’s really honest that it gets people going through the different silhouettes and having fun with them.”

As Van Doren says, “It’s nice not to have just one shoe.”

Still, the list is short. And at this point, that’s intentional. After the over-expansion of the ’80s and the rudderless design philosophy of the early 2000s, Vans seems acutely aware of what it takes for the brand to succeed: authenticity.

“Right now, if Vans released a knit sneaker, I have a feeling you’d just be like, ‘Are you the fuck serious? You can’t skate in it,'” says Trunzo, who credits Vans’ current success in part to the popularity of the early ’90s skate-inspired look, which has become a driving force in the fashion world. “But the fact that they were steering the ship in the right direction – sticking to the game plan – obviously resonated with their regular customers,” he says. “Those who have the legacy will have the advantage. You can’t invent this shit.”

A look inside the Vans headquarters in Costa Mesa, California Open Gallery

“We’re not trying to create what we think people want us to do. We try to go out there and stay who we are and improve,” says Van Doren. “You won’t see us while I’m around with a basketball shoe or a soccer shoe. We did that in the early 80’s; We had soccer, basketball, racquetball, wrestling, skydiving, breakdancing… But we almost went broke. So we had to come back to earth and get back to what we do. And we learned that lesson well.”

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You learned very well. Vans has blossomed into a $2.3 billion powerhouse — VF Corp.’s largest and fastest-growing brand, with a shiny new headquarters in Costa Mesa to show it. “The continued energy and heat behind the Vans brand continues to grow,” Rendele said during VF’s most recent quarterly earnings conference on Oct. 23, 2017. Notable achievements include the iconic checkerboard pattern, the Old Skool and the UltraRange. All part of or inspired by the classics. As a precaution, he allayed all worries about the future: “Some of you may be wondering whether this growth is sustainable for Vans. Let me just say that we have great confidence in our biggest brand. The brand is stronger than ever.”

Will it stay like this? Maybe – if those responsible take the lessons of past failures to heart. “There has to be some lineage and some connection to the shapes and patterns that are in Classics,” says Pozzebon of Vans’ overall design ethos. Otherwise, that lack of authenticity—of honesty—could finish the job that deviating from the core Vans identity nearly did in 1984.

But 33 years (and a few billion dollars) have passed since those days. And Steve Van Doren seems confident, as ever, that the company his father and uncle founded 51 years ago is on the right track. “I always try to keep my mind on Classics,” he says. “I’m really too old-fashioned. But we will stay like this.”

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Jonathan Evans Jonathan Evans is Esquire’s Style Director and covers everything to do with fashion, grooming, accessories and of course sneakers. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and son. You can follow him at @MrJonathanEvans on Twitter and Instagram.

Vans’ original manufacturing and fulfillment process was simple: employees made rubber-soled shoes every morning and sold them directly at the company’s Anaheim factory in the afternoon.

Over the next 30 years, Vans shoes were manufactured in several factories in California until the company’s manufacturing facilities moved to China and Vietnam in the late ’90s.

What material are vans made of?

One of the defining characteristics of Vans shoes is their vulcanized rubber construction, praised by skaters for their excellent grip and hold on the board.

Vulcanized rubber is unique in that it goes through two stages of ‘baking’: rubber is heat cured and compressed, then a second ‘steam baking’ takes place after assembly to ensure a durable yet easily broken-in shoe.

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Vans has spent half a century making some of the best skate shoes in the world. Now, for their 50th anniversary, they showed us the magic they have used to make great shoes all these years. Okay, a little magic.

Since the company’s inception in California, Vans has used a proprietary formula that includes a blend of compounds, tread patterns, and design details to create its skate shoe outsoles. While Vans subcontracts its shoe rubber creation to a number of factories overseas (the original Vans outsoles were made in California), only two factories process the performance skate-specific rubber soles—one in Shangdu, China, and the other in Vietnam.

Neal Shoemaker, the aptly named lead designer of skate shoes for Vans, explains that the process begins by taking a certain percentage of raw rubber and raw synthetic rubber. The natural gum arrives in the form of a large heap of bright amber blobs the size of a small cooler. The synthetic material proves more consistent, arriving in a large sheet of translucent silver-blue. The rubber compound ensures a balanced price-performance ratio.

“The natural is harder to harvest and more expensive,” Shoemaker tells Popular Mechanics. “I think it’s grippier. More natural makes for a stickier rubber.” Before the process was offshored, the Vans rubber was so sticky that the paper packaging in the shoeboxes stuck to the outsoles.

To start the outsole manufacturing process, the teams heat the two rubbers and mix each a certain percentage in a machine with two giant rolling pins that mix and heat the rubber by rolling them on top of each other. “There are tons of air bubbles bursting,” says Shoemaker. “It’s a noisy process.”

After blending together to a liquid consistency, the mixture is removed from the machine, pressed flat and laid out on a conveyor belt while passing through a water bath to cool. From there, pigment is added to the mix, although Vans often uses some natural bubblegum color with a slight translucency.

Once the pigment is applied, crews can reheat the mixture to apply more color, e.g. B. a white sidewall. In a vulcanized rubber skate shoe, the rubber substance is pressed through a mold, just like molding pasta. The mix then separates into rough shapes, basically outsole blanks, which then fit onto one of five or six skate-specific outsole shapes. A machine presses the blank into a mold and applies pressure and heat for between 60 and 120 seconds — a process similar to “steaming waffles,” Shoemaker says, appropriate since the waffle tread pattern has remained a Vans design and performance hallmark .

When demolded, the blanks retain their specific final shape. The thickness of the rubber remains the same in all skate shoes, but you’ll find differences in the geometry incorporated into the sidewalls and heel, all of which are clearly defined from the mold. At this point, a simple trimming of the new rubber soles prepares them to blend with the rest of the shoe’s materials.

Whether combined with canvas, textile or leather, the combination of natural and synthetic rubber throughout gives Vans skate shoes a characteristic sole.

Follow Tim Newcomb on Twitter at @tdnewcomb.

Tim Newcomb Tim Newcomb is a journalist based in the Pacific Northwest.

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Trendiest vegan sneakers for women, men and unisex

There are many types of shoes – sandals, platform shoes, high heels, knee high boots and so on.

But no shoe style can match the versatility of a good sneaker.

Lightweight or chunky, sneakers add a stylish casual streetwear touch to any outfit.

Whether you’re hitting the city streets or getting ready for a night out, the essential sneaker has you covered.

In this article I will introduce you to the ten best vegan sneakers currently available, excellent alternatives to leather and plastic.

From the UK to the US and from France to Brazil, these are the best vegan sneakers and trainers you can wear right now.

To create this article, I curated over 300 pairs of shoes from the top 50 vegan sneaker brands out there.

After all, I kept the best running shoes, regular sneakers, native shoes, stylish sneakers, unisex sneakers and even waterproof shoes made of environmentally friendly materials.

Without further ado, it’s time to ditch your high heels and slip into a comfortable pair of vegan sneakers with the help of this guide.

1/10

The most popular vegan sneakers

VEJA V-10 VEGAN SNEAKERS

from $150

1 out of 4

EDITORS’ NOTE: “A versatile pair of vegan sneakers that goes with everything from faded jeans to simple dresses and biker jackets.”

Shop at AMAZON

Shop at SHOPBOP

A signature Veja style sneaker offered in faux leather and accented with colorful detailing.

Veja’s V10 vegan sneakers are comfortable with a touch of jersey lining.

The sole is made of rubber from the Amazon forest.

2/10

Best vegan sneakers from Nike

NIKE AIR MAX VEGAN RUNNING SHOES

from $160

1 out of 5

EDITORS’ NOTE: “Nike Air Max 2021 has a soft heel, not too tight in the toes and an overall great fit. If you had to stand all day, these are the pair of vegan sneakers you would want!”

Shop at NIKE

Shop at Foot Locker

The 2021 version of the brand’s Nike Air Max features an innovative Air system designed to deliver the best feel ever.

The honeycomb foam midsole is made from sustainable materials and provides an incredible, super-soft feel.

3/10

Best vegan sneakers from adidas

ADIDAS CONTINENTAL 80 VEGAN SHOES

from $82

1 out of 6

EDITORS’ NOTE: “Wear ’80s sneaker style while enjoying today’s comfortable vegan leather materials.”

Shop at FOOTSHOP

Shop at FARFETCH

The era of aerobics in colorful leotards may be behind us.

But that shouldn’t stop you from hitting up your favorite playlist and finding your groove again in the ’80s-inspired adidas Continental sneakers.

A crisp white upper – looking as retro as ever – paired with a rubber sole that will stick as you saunter down the city sidewalk.

4/10

Best vegan unisex sneakers

REEBOK X1 VEGAN TRAINERS

from $60

1 out of 7

EDITORS’ NOTE: “The vegan Reebok Nano X1 sneakers are made from plant-based castor beans and are an ideal training companion for women.”

Shop at REEBOK

Shop at AMAZON

These versatile training sneakers from Reebok offer a plant-based approach to your daily training.

The comfortable and durable upper is made from a plant-based version of Flexweave® knit and has built-in support for quick lateral movements.

Floatride castor bean energy foam provides flexible cushioning in the forefoot.

5/10

Best Vegan Slip-On Sneakers

VANS CHECKERBOARD VEGAN SLIP-ON

from $55

1 out of 6

EDITORS’ NOTE: “Featuring the iconic Vans checkerboard pattern, the Classic Slip-On by VANS is an essential everyday accessory for streetwear lovers thanks to its unique ‘Off The Wall’ look.”

Shop at GOAT

Shop at FLIGHT CLUB

First introduced in 1977, the Vans #98—now known as the Vans Classic Slip-On—became an instant style icon in Southern California.

Fast forward to today, and the Classic Slip-On VANS are known worldwide for their relaxed silhouette, comfort and stunning design.

This slip-on shoe features a flat organic cotton canvas upper, supportive padded collars, elasticated side accents and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

6/10

Best Designer Vegan Sneakers

GUCCI GG BASKET VEGAN SNEAKERS

from $950

1 out of 4

EDITORS’ NOTE: “Relive the ’90s on the court with Gucci’s latest take on GG vegan basketball sneakers.”

Shop at SAKS

Shopping at FARFETCH (W)

Shop at FARFETCH (M)

Made in Italy by the brand’s skilled artisans, the GG Basket Sport Vegan sneakers have a look synonymous with ’90s basketball sneakers.

This time, the Italian designer house presents a reinterpretation of the classic lace-up sneaker – as seen in the latest sneaker trends.

The high-top style emulates the self-expression of the on-court aesthetic with distinctive features and details.

Each pair is made from vegan-friendly materials, offered in a mix of colorful fabrics and given a light distressed finish.

7/10

Best casual vegan sneakers for women

KEDS JUMP KICK DUO VEGAN SNEAKERS

from $39.95

1 out of 4

EDITORS’ NOTE: “Available with a unique Croc embossed pattern and vegan soft buck, these women’s Keds vegan sneakers are great for the sporty, dressy ones out there.”

Shop at KEDS

Shop at AMAZON

We’re all about the chunky sneaker trend (often as an unexpected pairing with flowing dresses), but we don’t like all the bulk and heaviness that often comes with this look.

Time to turn to these sporty-chic jump-kick silhouettes with a chunky (but not heavy!) rubber bottom.

I love the slight wedge at the heel for added lift, which positions the foot at a comfortable angle and offers a heavily feminine effect.

8/10

Best vegan sneakers for men

SKECHERS FLEX CONWAY VEGAN SNEAKERS

from $85

1 out of 4

EDITORS NOTE: “Skechers Flex Conway Osley slip-on sneakers have a great casual look, ideal for those who want to perform and look good on the trail.”

Shop at SKECHERS

Shop at DSW

Skechers Relaxed Fit – Flex Conway Osley is a pair of vegan sneakers designed to explore the trails with an extra step of comfort.

There’s a lot of innovation in these vegan men’s sneakers from Skechers.

The shoe is designed like a sock sneaker; a mesh and synthetic upper with Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam, a comfort sockliner paired with a geometrically cushioned midsole and a Skechers Goga Mat Arch for added support.

9/10

Best vegan high-top sneakers

SUPERGA SWALLOW TAIL WHITE GREEN SNEAKERS

from $85

1 out of 4

EDITORS’ NOTE: “The Superga Swallow Tail White Green Vegan Sneakers are designed to bring a unique twist to the classic high-top sneakers out there!”

Shop at SUPERGA

Shop at AMAZON

The Superga 2295 Women’s Sneaker is a high-top, lace-up shoe with a classic cotton canvas upper.

Featuring a textured natural rubber outsole and a cushioned footbed for all-day comfort.

The logo is made from recycled plastic bottles, while parts of the sole are made from recycled rubber.

10/10

Best vegan leather sneakers

MATT & NAT GIA VEGAN SNEAKERS

from $77

1 of 2

EDITORS’ NOTE: “The Matt & Nat vegan GIA sneakers offer a unique, futuristic design with endless comfort.”

Shop at MATT & NAT

Inspired by classic running shoes from the ’80s, the Gia by Matt & Nat is a pair of chunky lace-up sneakers made from vegan-friendly recycled materials.

The sneakers have breathable mesh panels on the sides – to prevent overheating – and are ideal for long hours in everyday life.

In my opinion, this sustainable sneaker is currently one of the most stylish shoes in the vegan range and contains a mixture of natural materials and recycled cotton.

If you’re still not sure if vegan sneakers are the right choice for you, below are some reasons why people are switching to eco-friendly and cruelty-free shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Sneakers Why should I switch to vegan shoes One of the main reasons for buying vegan sneakers is animal welfare. Another main reason to switch to vegan sneakers is to protect the environment. Plus, buying vegan sneakers is a great way to start the industry on a more sustainable path. But the key here is choosing the right vegan sneaker brand. That’s because not all brands that make vegan shoes are the same. There’s still a lot of greenwashing going on, and some vegan shoe brands are selling you the idea of ​​vegan and sustainable living while still using polluting materials. Buying vegetarian sneakers will help reduce your carbon footprint and waste generation fast. You can use your money to vote for the changes you want to see in the world. By driving demand for vegan shoes, you convince big brands like Nike and Adidas to focus on making shoes from vegan and cruelty-free materials. Is Nike vegan? Unfortunately, not all Nike sneakers are vegan – not yet. However, Nike has some excellent vegan sneakers on offer. Most of the brand’s vegan sneakers are made of faux leather. Still, the brand has limited editions made from mushroom leather, pineapple leaf fiber, pineapple leather, and similar vegetable leather alternatives. Are most sneakers vegan? The share of vegan sneakers compared to non-vegan sneakers was less than 8% in February 2021. However, the number of brands making cruelty-free sneakers from sustainable materials is growing rapidly. Animal skin sneakers are dominating the fashion industry right now, but vegan options are on the rise. Is Adidas a vegan brand? Like Nike and Veja, not all shoes Adidas makes are vegan sneakers. The best way to ensure you’re getting a vegan sneaker is to check with the brand via their online support before you buy.

Conclusion

When it comes to vegan sneakers, vegan kicks and vegan shoes, the possibilities are limitless.

New vegan collections and vegan styles are launched every day, aimed at those interested in vegan fashion and making a sustainable fashion statement.

You can find all kinds of cruelty-free shoes; Fair Trade certified sneakers made from wild rubber, recycled bottles, sustainable cork, plastic waste, recycled fishing nets, apple peel, palm leaf fiber, recycled nylon, sugar cane, wood pulp, synthetic leather and so on.

Knowing what to choose gets complicated and to help I created this article on the 10 best vegan sneakers right now in 2022.

The goal is to help people discover the best vegan sneaker brands and choose the best vegan sneaker shoes for their needs.

So if you are currently looking for the best vegan sneakers, check out my collection which includes the best running shoes, regular sneakers, native shoes, stylish sneakers, unisex sneakers, vegan friendly sneakers and even waterproof shoes made from eco-friendly materials.

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Now it’s your turn…

Which of these vegan sneakers is your favorite and why?

Are there other vegan sneaker brands you’ve tried that you’d like to add to this list?

Comments below please.

Published on May 8, 2018 by PETA. Last updated on November 18, 2021.

When you’re looking for a fresh pair of shoes, there’s a lot to consider—style, size, and comfort—and only after you’ve asked the most important question: “Is that animal skin or other body part?” Fortunately, there is There are tons of great-looking sneakers made out of canvas, vegan leather, or other animal-friendly materials.

Here is a list of some great vegan sneakers:

Even luxury fashion brand Louis Vuitton, which refuses to stop selling the cruellest of exotic hide and fur items, is getting into the vegan game by launching a new animal-free sneaker made with 90% sustainable materials , including a corn-based plastic. renewable nylon and recycled rubber. Featuring the brand’s iconic ‘LV’ logo and monogram pattern, the white sneaker also comes in a high-top version. We’re happy that the brand is venturing into vegan choices, but we’re still urging them to stop selling exotic skins.

©Louis Vuitton

Nike Happy Pineapple Collection

Iconic brand Nike has launched eco-friendly vegan versions of their classic sneaker styles, including the Air Force 1, Air Max 90, Air Max 95 and Air Zoom. The Happy Pineapple collection uses Piñatex, a vegan leather alternative made from pineapple leaf fibers. It also features cork-lined insoles and color combinations in summery hues.

©Nike

Vans Eco Theory collection

The Vans Eco Theory collection is the streetwear brand’s first sustainable footwear line, featuring vegan versions of four of its popular styles. Made with organic cotton, cork, natural rubber, hemp and water-based inks and glues, these sneakers are better for animals and the environment. Styles include the Authentic SF, Slip-On SF, Sk8-Hi 38 Decon SF, and 36 Deacon SF.

© Delivery truck

Actor Jason Momoa has teamed up with footwear brand So iLL to create two limited-edition sneakers using vegan and eco-friendly materials, including a foam sockliner made from algae and an outsole with an EcoPure additive that accelerates decomposition. The Unity Purple Roamer and Yaya Lavender Roamer shoes feature an organic cotton upper with a unique triangular pattern based on Momoa’s tattoos.

These beautiful sneakers from vegan brand Brave GentleMan are made from recycled materials, including post-consumer cotton and polyester. This means these shoes help keep textile waste out of landfills, allowing them to enjoy a second life as a unique, custom-made shoe.

This classic sneaker has been given a vegan makeover by sneaker designer Sean Wotherspoon. The exclusive SuperEarth Superstar shoe is completely free of animal ingredients, including glue and dyes. It’s also made from recycled polyester and cork, so it’s great for animals and the environment. A unique multicolored floral design embroidered onto the outsole makes these sneakers stand out from the crowd.

Sean Wotherspoon’s SUPEREARTH SW Superstar is made from recycled materials and is free from animal products. It is our next step in our commitment to end plastic waste. Enter the prize draw for the August 29th release on the adidas app and exclusively on Confirmed in the US. pic.twitter.com/wCq1GZpIvD — adidas Originals (@adidasoriginals) August 27, 2020

Tennis star Roger Federer invested in Swiss running shoe brand On and launched his first custom shoe – the Roger Center Court 0-Series. On’s CloudTec technology ensures this shoe looks chunky while being super light. Federer also opted for a vegan leather upper to make the shoe eco-friendly.

High fashion is now vegan fashion with the launch of Balenciaga’s Zen sneakers, a 100% leather-free style with a thin sole and quilted polyurethane upper. The shoe is available in black or black and white, with the Balenciaga logo embossed on the tongue. The designer also sells other leather-free sneakers, like his chunky track sneakers and sock-like speed sneakers.

French brand VEJA is committed to responsible practices, including sourcing organic and fair trade cotton, wild Brazilian rubber and corn-based vegan leather. With 20 options that are 100% vegan, including the popular V-10, there’s no shortage of styles to choose from.

Gola sneakers are classics, and now many of them are cruelty-free. The iconic shoe brand launched their new Gola Classics Vegan range at the request of their worldwide fan base. There are too many styles to list, so be sure to check out the extensive range for yourself – available in sizes for women, men and even short people!

Well done

Madewell’s Sidewalk sneaker line – available in men’s and women’s sizes – has vegan canvas options to keep you looking good. Be sure to check the Madewell website to confirm the designs you like are vegan as some contain leather or suede.

Among the most recent to do justice to the rising enthusiasm for vegan shoes is Hugo Boss. BOSS Menswear now offers high-quality vegan shoes made from pineapple leather – yes, you read that right: pineapple leather. Known as Piñatex, the material is “an innovative leather alternative made from pineapple leaf fibers.” Because the leaves are a by-product of the fruit harvest, no additional resources are required to produce the material, meaning farmers get an additional source of income. In addition, Piñatex is completely cruelty-free. Visit your local Hugo Boss store to see if they stock the 100 percent vegan sneakers, which come in four stylish colors.

Known for making some of the most comfortable slip-ons in the industry, TOMS specializes in making sneakers and has such a wide selection that it has received PETA’s Compassionate Business Award.

One of the most recognizable skate shoe brands of all time, Vans has also made a name for itself in the world of vegan kicks with shoes like this stylish Canvas Half Cab. (Note: Only the styles and colors of the shoes shown in the link thumbnails use vegan leather.)

This Portuguese company’s shoes are all 100 percent vegan and many are innovatively made from recycled materials like discarded plastic bottles, tires and even airbags.

Ethletic offers a large selection of chic, 100 percent vegan sneakers – such as its new style, the Hiro – that are made from renewable raw materials.

Native is a 100 percent vegan Vancouver brand that makes a variety of comfortable hiking shoes like these chukkas:

what’s in a name In this case, a huge collection of 100 percent vegan shoes. Vegetarian Shoes even has a pair with Piñatex (leather made from pineapple) uppers.

These elegant Japanese originals are suitable both as running shoes and casual sneakers.

Emerica has a variety of vegan skate shoes that are built to last.

Whether you hit the streets or the trails, a durable pair of Merrells can get you there.

superga

An Italian brand with a globally recognized style, Superga offers a plethora of vegan options, like the classic 2075 COTU. Note: Because this company does not label their shoes as vegan, we recommend checking the products before purchasing.

Etnies offers a variety of sleek vegan sneakers including many low-top skate shoes and this versatile high-top, the BETA:

Inkcas

This company produces walking works of art with a huge collection of vibrant and unique canvas patterns – and they plant a tree with every purchase too!

Saucony is a classic running brand with an extensive vegan collection.

This 100 percent vegan footwear company is based in Los Angeles but ships across the country, with killer kicks like these:

Insecta offers a unique, 100 percent vegan range of handmade shoes made from vintage clothing.

German sneaker company nat-2 loves to prove that stylish shoes can be made in innovative ways. His new line uses recycled coffee grounds and plastic bottles, and has made shoes out of rock, grass, corn, beans, and other materials.

So enjoy ethical shopping! Because no matter what brand of shoe you wear, there’s no excuse for that:

Do you want your vegan fashion to look cute?

Sign up for PETA Living E-News to get pet-friendly tips, news and recipes delivered to your inbox each week:

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August 20, 2019 by Katherine Sullivan Last updated on June 19, 2020. Published by

Most of us now know that leather is not vegan. But what about other similar materials?

What is suede made of?

Suede is leather that’s ripped from the underside of animals like lambs, goats, pigs, calves, and deer.

Is suede vegan?

No, suede is not vegan. If you wouldn’t buy fur or leather, you shouldn’t buy suede. Microsuede – a soft material made from millions of fine polyester fibers – is vegan, as is coffee leather and many other cruelty-free suede-like materials.

What is nubuck?

Like suede, nubuck is just another form of leather. It is skin that has been torn from an animal’s body (just like leather) and abraded. Nubuck leather is made from cowhide.

Wearing suede or nubuck is like wearing leather or eating meat – extracting these materials requires the same cruelty and environmental destruction as producing leather or beef.

As with leather, animals must be killed to create suede. They have their throats cut in slaughterhouses and some are skinned and dismembered while still alive. And that’s after being born of forced breeding, torn from their families and forced to live a short, grim life on a farm that was probably miserable.

As with raising animals for meat, raising for nubuck or other materials requires vast amounts of land and water. The production of these materials contributes to climate change, land degradation, pollution and water pollution.

And like leather, suede and nubuck need to be treated with dangerous chemicals that can include formaldehyde and coal tar derivatives—otherwise they’ll rot on hangers. These substances are known to pollute groundwater near tanneries and cause health problems for residents in the surrounding areas.

It is now widely recognized that animal husbandry – including the production of leather from hides, which emit large amounts of methane and nitrous oxide, both potent greenhouse gases – are major contributors to climate change.

Animals, Mother Earth, people… they all need us to go vegan.

Opting for vegan fashion over leather, suede, nubuck or other animal-based materials has never been easier. Banana Republic, Birkenstock and many other brands and designers have embraced vegan fashion, including vegan leather and suede. Use our quick and easy guide to learn which cruelty-free materials to avoid when shopping:

PETA’s vegan clothing buyer’s guide

Only available as a whole skin. Buy a sample ring

United Leather is a supplier of high quality pig suede leather. It is thin, soft and velvety to the touch, making it an excellent leather for lightweight accessories, garments, shoe linings and small leather goods. Other uses include work gloves and wallets.

Type : Suede pigskin

Average Fur Size: 14-16 square feet +/-

Weight: 1.0 oz

Thickness : 0.5-0.6mm

Appearance : pigskin, uniform colour

Uses: accessories, garments, shoes, handbags, small leather goods

For wholesale pricing please contact [email protected]

Whole skin – 14-16 sq.ft. Average size.

Note: These measurements are approximate, actual measurements may vary. Leather is a natural product with irregular shapes and sizes.

What is pig suede?

Pork suede is thinner than cow suede and is therefore ideal as lining. Although not as durable as other types of suede, pig suede offers more suppleness and a soft texture. Crafted from the inside of a pigskin, the surface is polished using an abrasive technique to achieve a velvety, silky finish.

United Leather Options for pig suede

We offer an extensive color selection. We offer a large quantity of skins in stock and no lead times for in-stock products. Shop today or contact a representative to learn more about our range of suede.

DESCRIPTION

Originally known as Vans #36, the Old Skool debuted in 1977 with a unique addition: a random doodle drawn by founder Paul Van Doren and originally dubbed the “jazz strip.” Today, the famous Vans sidestripe has become the unmistakable – and instantly recognizable – hallmark of the Vans brand. Crafted with a durable suede and canvas upper in a range of fresh colorways, the Old Skool pays tribute to our heritage while ensuring this low-top, lace-up shoe remains as iconic as ever. It also features reinforced toe caps, supportive padded collars and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

by Max Gerstenmeyer

Vans shoes have been an integral part of the skateboarding and surfing community for decades. They have that classic style that’s been seen on the feet of skating legends like Tony Hawk, Tony Alva and more. While many people are familiar with Vans shoes as a brand for skating, they may not know where Vans comes from and how they are made. Let’s talk a little bit about it.

– Where are Vans shoes made?

Vans shoes began in sunny Anaheim, California in the late 1960s. They started out as the dream of founders Paul and Jim Van Doren, who originally manufactured them under the Van Doren Rubber Company name. They were handcrafted and assembled in their own facility in Anaheim and sold for just $3 at the time. Over the next few decades, Vans shoes continued to be manufactured at several Anaheim factories.

Originally, Vans shoes were designed simply as a tough, durable shoe that anyone could wear. However, the question “Were Vans made for skateboarding?” often floats in the room, since they are mainly used as skateboard shoes and in skate media. The shoes are actually marketed to skaters, but it wasn’t until several years after they were made that owners Paul and Jim Van Doren began targeting them at skaters in general. Skateboarding eventually made Vans popular; as well as why Vans are better than Converse in this area.

The question of where Vans are made today stems from the question, “Were Vans shoes popular in the ’90s?” This question begins to unravel how Vans took the promotion of the hugely popular Warped Tour and quickly grew in the ’90s started exploding in late 1990’s – early 2000’s. With over 30 years of manufacture in Anaheim, California; Vans were now forced to shift production to China and Vietnam to meet demand.

So when Vans are made abroad, one often wonders why Vans shoes are so expensive? Well, even though Vans is manufactured overseas, Vans still maintains a rigorous 450-point inspection methodology to ensure a quality shoe is always made. This ensures that only the finest materials and styles make it to the general public. Because of this, vans are a bit more expensive – but the value is in their lifespan.

– Vans shoes are in fashion today.

Today, Vans have become iconic in the fashion world beyond the skate community. This “California Cool” style has started to spread across North America and Europe, with more and more people recognizing the relaxed and classic styles of Vans shoes every year. The style itself evokes a specific aesthetic that exudes a cool, relaxed, and sunny vibe.

First, let’s be clear: both suede and nubuck are types of leather.

We don’t blame you if you’re confused – suede and nubuck have a completely different texture than what you usually imagine when you think of “leather”. Leather is what you get when you take an animal hide and tan it to create the durable, supple material that your boots are made of. If it’s made of animal skin, it’s leather.

While a typical leather has a relatively smooth surface, suede and nubuck have a roughened, velvety surface. Suede and nubuck look similar as they are both made by grinding and polishing the leather to give it its signature texture. So does that mean they are the same? Not exactly. Let’s take a look.

What is suede?

Made from the underside of the animal’s skin

Soft, more delicate

Lightweight, flexible

The name “suede” derives from the French expression “gants de Suède”, which literally means “gloves from Sweden”. As the name suggests, this material is great for more delicate items like gloves where you’re looking for a soft, flexible fit, as suede is both lightweight and pliable.

Waxed suede on the first Taft Dragon Boot

Suede is made by sanding down the underside of the animal hide rather than the side that faces the world. This makes it thinner and more supple than nubuck or regular leather. It also means it’s less durable, which is the compromise you’re making with this super soft material. You also need to watch out for water damage; Without a protective coating, even a rain shower can leave irreversible stains on some types of suede.

However, not all suede is super sensitive. Waxed suede takes the best parts of the material – the texture and flexibility – and ups the durability factor with a waterproof wax coating. I particularly like the Taft Dragon Boot, a rustic-looking, waterproof waxed suede boot that has barely suffered a scratch after weeks of wear.

[Become an expert – read my review of the Timberland Premium Waterproof Boot!]

What is nubuck?

Made from the outside of the animal’s skin

Usually more durable than suede

Sanded or polished to give a light nap

Nubuck leather, unlike suede, is made from the outside of a hide, meaning it’s a more durable, long-lasting material and can withstand more abrasion than your average suede. It used to be made from deer or elk leather, but modern nubuck leather is often made from super soft calfskin. The softness is also because it is sanded or polished on the grain side (the outside of the leather) to give it a light nap of protein fibers.

Being made up of the outer skin, nubuck can have imperfections that some would argue give it character. On the other hand, many manufacturers offer smooth, clean products by dying or dyeing the material to remove visible imperfections to keep your boots looking immaculate right away.

Keep in mind that nubuck can have a higher price tag as it’s made from a more durable leather – but not always. Timberland, for example, makes their classic boots out of nubuck leather and is relatively cheap given its quality. For more information on Timberlands’ legendary wheat boot, read our review.

One final note: nubuck doesn’t develop a patina like suede or leather. So if you’re looking for the character that comes with wearing a pair over time, nubuck isn’t for you. If you like the roughened texture but also want a durable pair of boots with patina development that you can wear in any weather, you probably want suede; The Truman Java Waxed Flesh boot, made from vegetable-tanned roughout leather, is one of our absolute favorites that’s got you covered.

[See where Truman ranks in our full roundup of the best boots on the market!]

How to care for suede and nubuck leather

To start: Get a brush. Whether you’re working with suede or nubuck, the material’s raised texture means it traps dirt more easily than leather, which can make it look dingy if neglected. A simple brush is your best friend when it comes to keeping your shoes looking sharp: it gets under the pile of the material, brushing out the dirt and restoring the texture of your boots.

This 4-way shacke brush has a few different textures meaning you can use it on both suede and nubuck boots, plus it has those handy protruding parts for getting creases and corners.

A brass wire brush may be better for suede with shorter fibers.

[Embossed Suede on the Taft Dragon 2.0 Boot]

Do you have stubborn stains that resist your brush? Whatever you do, don’t add water! Water is not your friend here. If dry brushing isn’t enough to clean a stubborn spot, consider investing in a suede/nubuck specific cleaner. We recommend Timberland’s Renewbuck & Dry Cleaner Kit, which not only has a great name but can also remove stubborn oil stains from your boots.

Speaking of water, a quality waterproofing spray like this one from Kiwi is a game changer when it comes to making your suede and nubuck shoes last. Kiwi gets bonus points for UV protection, which keeps your boots from becoming brittle from sun exposure, meaning come cover, rain or shine.

Would you like to impregnate your suede?

Suede isn’t great in inclement weather, but the taffeta boots you see in this article have been waxed to make them virtually waterproof. You can do the same with your own suede boots by saving some Otter Wax Heavy Duty Fabric Wax.

[Learn more in our Ultimate Guide to Suede Care.]

So should you get some of the soft stuff?

If you already have a good, sturdy pair of leather boots, it’s a good idea to add a pair of suede or nubuck leather to your collection. They’re comfortable and stylish without the painful break-in period that often accompanies quality leather. Both suede and nubuck are great paired with chelsea or chukka boots – perfect for going to the office and heading out to the weekend without looking like a slob.