2. Skate style is the new move in menswear: From the Dickies-inspired pants of Noah to the Thrasher-inspired graphics of Vetements, it’s clear that ‘90s-era skateboarders are a major source of inspiration in fashion right now. Vans’ Sk8-Hi makes it easy to own a piece of the counterculture spirit, but because they’ve also been a street favorite for decades, you won’t veer into poseur territory if you can’t nollie.

3. They keep a low profile: A black canvas upper and grip-friendly honeycomb outsole mean the Sk8-Hi is built to last. (They are, after all, made for skateboarding.) Where so many high-top sneakers too often come with extra padding, double-stuffed soles, and outlandish colors, a pair of black Sk8-Hi’s keeps things low-key. (Which helps explain why so many brands, from WTaps to Supreme, insist on making sneaks inspired by the Vans classic.)

4. A pair won’t break the bank: Even though they come fully loaded with style, history, and cool factor.