Where can I buy the Vans Authentic?

Virtually anywhere sneakers can be purchased, you'll be sure to find a pair of Vans Authentics for sale. Vans' website and physical stores are a great place to start, and large retailers will also stock the sneakers. Rare pairs may pop up at small boutique stores like Concepts and Extra Butter, but for a truly Authentic experience we recommend checking out your local skate shop to see what's in stock.

What colorways does the Vans Authentic come in?

The Vans Authentic comes in every color and material imaginable. Traditionally, the sneakers come in red, black, blue, or white and feature an all white midsole with a brown waffle patterned outsole. Today, you can find them in a full spectrum of color combinations and patterns.

How does the Vans Authentic fit?

These sneakers do run true-to-size and we recommend going with that. However, they do have a flat insole and outsole, so adding inserts may be a good idea for those with a higher arch to maximize comfort.

Does the Vans Authentic restock?

Restocks are frequent for the Vans Authentic. General release pairs tend to replenish on racks at Vans stores and large retailers often. Highly sought after pairs don't restock as often but typically show back up on the Vans website and in stores unannounced. Be the first to receive updates on restocks by downloading the Sole Retriever app.

What Vans Authentic collabs are there?

The Authentic is one of the most popular Vans silhouettes for collaborators to play around with, Supreme and Comme des Garçons drop new pairs seasonally. Other notable fashion collabs include Better With Age, Satoshi Nakamoto, Valentino, and Gallery Department. Music artists Mac Miller and SZA have their own versions of the shoe, while visual artists like Brenna Youngblood have used the sneakers as the canvas they truly are. It seems as though every day there's a new collaborator transforming the Vans Authentic into wearable art.

Authentic Release Dates

Debuting in 1966 as a deck shoe, the Vans Authentic is a pioneer of skateboarding history. The thicker midsole and waffle-like outsole make the sneakers perfect for board grip. It wasn’t long before worlds collided and pivoted the Vans Authentic into the mainstream. Since the 1960s, the sneakers have transcended subcultures and landed on feet around the world. It’s almost impossible to step outside anywhere and not see a piece of 1966 walking amongst us in some Authentics.

What is the Vans Authentic?

The Vans Authentic is simple yet perfect. The upper traditionally features a cotton canvas and 5 lace holes climbing to the top of the sneaker. The midsoles are made of vulcanized rubber, a process used to harden the material and make the shoe more durable. The outsoles have a grippy and patterned material originally designed for boating, but eventually proven to be perfect for skateboarding.