4 Reasons We Love Vans Sk8-Hi Sneakers

WE LOVE VANS.

1. They’ve been around for 40 years: The age of social media has turned sneaker collecting into a game of “I Spy.” But instead of street signs, kids today are desperate to name which designer brands and limited releases make up their closets (and Instagram feeds). The Vans Sk8-Hi, however—originally named the Vans Style #38 back in 1978—has been around for so long that it transcends the hamster wheel of the sneaker game, meaning they’ll look cool today, tomorrow, and basically forever.

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.