Over the last few years, the popularity of Vans footwear has exploded, and while the classic range of Authentics, Eras and 106s (amongst others) seem to be the most popular on the high street, Vans have never stopped catering to skateboarders with a range of specifically designed shoes available only at skate stores. While some are updated versions of the classics with improved padding & extra reinforcement, many are completely new models unavailable outside of skateboard retailers. Here are a few of our (and our customers') favourites:
CHUKKA LOW
The Chukka Low (£54.95) is the all round staple of the Vans Pro Skate collection. A chopped down and padded out version of the Chukka Boot, the Chukka Low features a long lasting Pro Vulc sole construction using Vans' Original Waffle sole for superior grip, and the Boardfeel sockliner provides extra impact protection. Usually found in a mixture of suede & canvas uppers, the Chukka Low not only looks great but is possibly the ultimate all round skate shoe.
Shop our range of Chukka Lows here.
TYPE II
The Type II is a recent introduction to the Pro Skate range, and is a completely original Vans model. Whilst using many of the same construction technologies as the Chukka Low, the Type II differentiates itself by pulling the joins of the shoe further back from the widest part of your foot to avoid any unwanted irritation, and the long one piece toe provides more fluid flexibility to the front of the shoe. The Ultralight insole also makes for a much lighter shoe than the Chukka Low.
Shop our range of Type IIs here.
TNT 5
The TNT 5 is Tony Trujillo's fifth pro shoe from Vans, and became an instant favourite at Focus HQ when it was released in Spring last year. Combining influences from several Vans classic models, the TNT 5 manages to look timeless whilst hiding some of the most up to date technology Vans have to offer. The dual layered toe cap makes the shoe as tough as nails, and the co-moulded PU sockliner is reinforced with extra cushioning for your heels and the balls of your feet, making heel bruises and hot pockets a thing of the past.
Shop our range of TNT 5s here.
ERA PRO
A personal favourite of mine is the Era Pro, an updated version of Tony Alva's ever popular Era. Durable suede uppers with an extra Duracap underlay help to stop griptape in its tracks, and the Boardfeel insole as used in the Chukka Low makes these far comfier than your standard Era or Authentic. The latest colourway, the Black/Pewter pictured above, features a Supertuff suede toe, making these one of the toughest shoes Vans have to offer, whilst still providing the classic Vans look that has proven so popular in recent years.
Shop our range of Era Pros here.
Check back regularly for more from the Vans Pro Skate range in the coming months!
It goes without saying that Vans are one of those skate shoes that everyone - whether skater or not - knows about, and each season we anticipate getting our deliveries in. Spring 2012 brings a veritable smorgasbord of style and quality, some old favourites given a makeover and new styles establishing themselves in the canon. Check below for direct links to each of our range.
It's
that time again for another one of our legendary pop up sales! Up to
75% off footwear, clothing and accessories from Stussy, Alife, Carhartt,
Converse, Vans, Huf, Nike SB, Lakai, Elwood, Obey and many more.
Plus the return of the lucky dip bags!
Midday to 6pm on Saturday 3rd March and midday to 6pm on Sunday 4th
March at 40 Osborne Street, Glasgow near Mono and 13th Note.
Get there early because there will be bargains galore to be had!
Some of the new Vans styles we received today. Select your size and click the Buy Now button to add to your cart or view the entire Spring 2012 collection here.
Our mate Rick has been documenting the lives of some of his skate shoes in photographic form. Check out more here.
And view the our selection of Vans on our website here.
Copyright © 2012 Focus.
