Kids' Vans Old Skool

Custom Feels

Back in 1966, when brothers Paul and Jim Van Doren started their shoe company with partners Gordon Lee and Serge Delia, this Anaheim, CA-based crew made same-day shoes to order, letting their factory double as a storefront. Today, Vans shoes come ready-to-wear, but their skateboard-inspired styles haven’t lost the impression of customization.

This is especially true with the Old Skool line of lifestyle sneakers. Launched in 1977, Old Skools were the first Vans shoes to debut the now-signature side stripe — also called the ‘jazz’ stripe — not to mention luxe leather panels and a new low-top style. Today, kids of all ages love expressing their personal style in this hip retro sneaker, thanks to its range of colorways and add-on options.

Independent Style

Little sneakerheads love dressing like the big kids. And they typically want to do everything by themselves! Enter the Toddler Boys’ Vans Old Skool ComfyCush — classic styling and suede-and-canvas uppers for that on-point heritage look. Comfy Cush foam offers extra padding so the play can last all day. Plus, that smart velcro strapping system helps for easy on-and-off and maximum independence.

Stepping Up

Preschool boys are ready for the sophisticated skater style of the classic Vans Old Skool. They’ll love the big kid colorways and stretch lacing system, while parents appreciate the simple slip-on design. Add in a reinforced toe-box and extra stitching to maximize durability, with padded collars for more support and comfort, and this shoe will stick around until kindergarten graduation.

Rule the Skool

Old Skool kicks are great for grade school boys who find that their style rests firmly in vintage territory. For those always-on-the-go boys who need more flexibility in their sneakers, consider the Vans Old Skool Race Rpt. These sneakers have all the iconic design elements of the classic Old Skools — bold graphic prints and colorways, suede-and-canvas mixed uppers, and prominent rubber outsoles. But, thanks to the addition of a vulcanized midsole, the Old Skool Racer Rpt’s rubber outsole gains flexibility and strength. So the shoes move easily from playground to gym, without getting beaten up or worn down in the transitions.