Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (2024)

Table of Contents
Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Sizing Vans Slip On Sizing Comparison Photos Vans Old Skool Sizing Comparison Photos Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Design Slip-On vs Lace Up Upper Material Sidestripe Logo Heel Tab Logo Rubber Waffle Outsole Padded Collar Performance Shoes Weight Other Vans Shoes to Consider My Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Conclusion FAQs References

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I recently put my hands on both the Vans Old Skool and Vans Slip-On shoes so that I could compare them on comfort, sizing, and design. When comparing Vans Old Skool vs Slip On shoes, the obvious difference is the Old Skool is a lace-up design, and the Slip-On is not, but when you look closer, there are several other not-so-obvious design differences that may impact which style best fits your needs.

Quickly, this is what jumps out the most to me:

  • Perhaps the biggest difference in design is the fact that the Vans Slip On shoes are made with a durable canvas upper, and although the Vans Old Skool shoes are also made with the canvas material, the Old Skool shoes have extra suede detailing over the toe, heel, and eyestay (eyelets).
  • Both styles differ from Vans Authentic (which has no padding) because these styles use padding around the collar of the shoe.
  • I found the sizing to be very similar. If you scroll down, later in the article I use my side-by-side comparison photos to compare the sizing of these Vans shoes to other popular brands (and to other types of Vans shoes).
  • Both styles have the waffle rubber outsole with backside heel tab logo. The Vans Old Skool shoes feature the iconic “Sidestripe” logo.
  • These two styles do differ on weight, but not by much. My Vans Old Skool shoes weigh 1.03 pounds per shoe and my Vans Slip On shoes weigh 0.99 pounds per shoe (based on a size 12 men’s shoe).

Both styles were originally designed to be performance skate shoes and debuted in the 1970’s.

I recently tried six different types of Vans shoes. Just to give you an idea where the Vans Slip-On and Vans Old Skool compare to other styles regarding weight, I listed all of the weights below (weights based off one size 12 men’s shoe):

ShoeWeight (lbs)Photo
Vans UltraRange 0.63click here to view
Vans EVDNT UW0.87click here to view
Vans Authentic 0.98click here to view
Vans Slip On0.99click here to view
Vans Old Skool 1.03click here to view
Vans Sk8-Hi1.15click here to view

In this article let’s take a closer look at the Vans Old Skool vs Slip On so you can decide which style might be best for you. I will use specific sizing photos that I have comparing these styles to other popular types of shoes so you can feel more confident you are ordering the right size.

Table of Contents

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Sizing

In my experience regarding Vans sizing, all classic types of Vans shoes have a narrow, snug design. I order my normal sizing, but if you prefer a looser fit, you may need to size up (read more about Vans shoe sizing).

Because they were originally built to be performance shoes, both the Vans Old Skool and Vans Slip On have this narrow, snug fit. I found the sizing of these two styles to be practically the same.

Here is my side-by-side comparison photos of my Vans Old Skool vs Slip On sizing:

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (1)
Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (2)

Again, I ordered my normal sizing, but don’t expect a loose fit. It might be best to verify your sizing using the link below that takes you to Vans.com sizing tutorial which which matches your foot size to a Vans shoe size.

***Verify Your Size***: Vans.com now has its own sizing tutorial which matches your foot size to a Vans shoe size. Click here to view it at Vans.com (paid affiliate link takes you to Vans.com).

Also, if you are looking for quick Vans sizing advice and don’t want to browse through all the comparison photos on this page, then this quick video below just summarizes my thoughts regarding how Vans fit:

Vans Slip On Sizing Comparison Photos

Below are the sizing photos I took for the Vans Slip On shoes compared to other brands (all shoes are size 12 men’s). I personally have found the Vans Slip On shoes to fit true to size with a snug design. They are sized consistently with other popular types of Vans shoes (Vans Old Skool vs Slip On sizing is basically the same).

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Nike Cortez

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (3)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Nike Cortez Women

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (4)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Vans Authentic

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (5)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Nike Blazer

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (6)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Nike Air Max Excee

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Nike Air Max 90

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (8)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Nike Air Max Womens

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (9)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Adidas Gazelle

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (10)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Adidas Busenitz

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (11)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Adidas Samba

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (12)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Adidas Nizza

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (13)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Adidas Superstars

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (14)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Converse Chucks

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (15)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Converse Chucks Womens

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (16)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Converse One Stars

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (17)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Converse Pro Leathers

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (18)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Crocs

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (19)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Crocs Women

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (20)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Hey Dude Wally

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (21)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Hey Dude Wendy

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (22)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs New Balance 574

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (23)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Under Armour HOVR

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (24)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Under Armour Micro G Pursuit

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (25)

Vans Slip On Sizing vs Adidas 2k Boost

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (26)

Vans Old Skool Sizing Comparison Photos

Below are the sizing photos I took for my Vans Old Skool shoes compared to other brands (all shoes are size 12 men’s). I personally have found the Vans Old Skool shoes to fit true to size with a snug design. They are sized consistently with other popular types of Vans shoes (Vans Old Skool vs Slip On sizing is basically the same).

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Converse Chucks

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (27)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Converse Pro Leather

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (28)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Converse One Stars

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Adidas Superstars

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (30)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Adidas Gazelles

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (31)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Adidas Busenitz

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (32)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Adidas Samba

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (33)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Adidas Nizza

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (34)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Hey Dude Wally

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (35)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Nike Cortez

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (36)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Nike Blazer

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (37)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Nike Air Max Excee

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (38)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Crocs

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (39)

Vans Old Skool vs New Balance 574 Sizing

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (40)

Vans Old Skool Sizing vs Under Armour Hovr

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (41)

Vans Old Skool vs Vans Sk8-Hi Sizing

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (42)

Vans Old Skool vs Adidas 2k Boost

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (43)

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Design

Slip-On vs Lace Up

The most obvious difference between these styles is Vans Old Skool is a lace-up design, which sits a bit higher on the foot:

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (44)

Not only does the Vans Old Skool fit a bit higher and offer a more secure fit than the Vans Slip On shoes, the Old Skool actually sits higher and has more laces compared to other certain types of classic Vans low-top lace-up shoes.

For example, here are my Vans Old Skool shoes (right) compared to the Authentics:

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (45)

Upper Material

Perhaps the biggest difference in Vans Old Skool vs Slip On design (other than laces) is the fact that the Vans Slip On shoes are made with a durable canvas upper, and although the Vans Old Skool shoes are also made with the canvas material, the Old Skool shoes have extra suede detailing over the toe, heel, and eyestay (eyelets).

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (46)
Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (47)

Sidestripe Logo

The Vans Old Skool shoes have the iconic “Sidestripe” logo and the Vans Slip On shoes do not (Vans Slip on does have the Vans tag on the side). Here is a look at the side of both:

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (48)
Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (49)

Heel Tab Logo

Both styles have the iconic heel tab logo:

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (50)
Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (51)

Rubber Waffle Outsole

When comparing the Vans Old Skool vs Slip On shoes, they both have the rubber waffle outsole which Vans is famous for. Here is a look at the outsole of my Vans Old Skool and Vans Slip On:

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (52)
Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (53)

Padded Collar

One thing that makes the Vans Old Skool and Vans Slip On shoes stand out from the Vans Authentic shoes is both the Old Skool and Slip On have padding around the collar of the shoe.

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (54)
Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (55)

Performance Shoes

Both styles were originally designed to be low-top performance skate/BMX shoes. As we discussed, both styles debuted in the 1970’s.

Because they were originally built to be performance shoes, both the Vans Old Skool and Vans Slip On shoes have this narrow, snug fit. I found the sizing of these two styles to be practically the same.

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (56)

Weight

When I weighed all the popular styles of Vans shoes, I found the Vans Old Skool and Vans Slip On shoes to be two of the heaviest. My Vans Old Skool shoes weigh 1.03 pounds per shoe and my Vans Slip On shoes 0.99 pounds per shoe (based on a size 12 men’s shoe).

To see how these shoes compared to other styles of Vans shoes regarding weight, visit my article about how much Vans weigh.

Other Vans Shoes to Consider

In this article we compared the Vans Old Skool vs Slip On shoes. If you want to read about other Vans shoes, visit our articles linked below:

  • Vans Authentic Sizing
  • Vans EVDNT Sizing
  • Vans UltraRange Sizing
  • Vans Sk8-Hi Sizing
  • Vans vs Converse Shoes
  • Vans vs Adidas Shoes
  • Vans vs Hey Dudes
  • Vans Authentic vs Old Skool
  • Vans Sk8-Hi vs Old Skool
  • Vans Authentic Compared to Era

My Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Conclusion

Both the Vans Old Skool and Slip On were originally designed to be performance skate shoes. The Vans Old Skool is a lace up design, and the Slip-On, as the name would suggest, is not.

Perhaps the biggest difference in Vans Old Skool vs Slip On design is the fact that the Vans Slip On is made with a durable canvas upper, and although the Vans Old Skool also uses the canvas material for the upper, it also has suede detailing over the toe, heel, and eyestay (eyelets).

Both styles differ from Vans Authentic (which has no padding) because these styles use padding around the collar. To tongue on the Old Skool is also padded.

Both styles have the waffle rubber outsole with backside heel tab logo. But the Old Skool has the iconic sidestrip Vans logo, and the Slip On does not.

Regarding sizing, my recommendation is to order your normal shoe size, but do not expect a loose fit. If you prefer a loose fit, you may need to size up. These shoes have a narrow, snug design.

To order wide Vans sizing, you actually need to go to the Vans “Custom” page, where you can make custom changes which include ordering custom wide shoes.Click here to viewthe custom wides available at Vans.com (affiliate link takes you to Vans.com).

Vans Old Skool vs Slip On Shoes Compared [What’s the Difference?] | Workwear Command (2024)

FAQs

Do Vans slip-ons fit the same as Old Skools? ›

In my experience, Vans Slip-Ons fit true to size - same as all the other Vans models I own. If you have wide feet, you can choose this as an option on the customisable pairs.

Discover More Details ›
What is the difference between Slip-On and Asher? ›

A: The Asher has a softer cushion at the back , above the heel (achilles area). if you find the slip on classics a bit uncomfortable due to the hardness of this part, then perhaps the Asher is for you.

Keep Reading ›
What is the difference between Vans Old Skool and Vans Ward? ›

The stitching under the jazz stripe on the Old Skools isn't even existent on the Wards. The vertical stitching above the heel counter is much narrower on the Old Skools vs the Wards. On Wards, eyestays are connected at the front, just above the vamp (toecap). On the Old Skools, the vamps go all the way to the laces.

View Details ›
Are Slip-On Vans comfortable for walking? ›

Yes. Vans shoes offer great support with a comfortable fit all day long. The ultimate combination of function and style, they are ideal for walking due to a sturdy rubber sole and flexible canvas construction.

Learn More ›
What does Vans Old Skool mean? ›

Vans Style 36, now known as the Old Skool, debuted in 1977 and was the first Vans shoe to use the now famous Vans Sidestripe. Originally referred to as the "jazz stripe," the Sidestripe began as a random doodle created by Paul Van Doren and is now an unmistakable hallmark of the Vans brand and its Vans Classic line.

Discover More ›
Why are Old Skool vans so popular? ›

Given that the Old Skool is a simple timeless design rooted in the history of skateboarding and skate culture, it later went on to become the ideal canvas for customization and collaborations.

Read On ›
Are slip ons better? ›

Slip On – While they don't maintain their shape as long, slip ons are generally more comfortable than their lace-up counterparts. They'll lose snugness over time, so you'll either need to buy an insole for each of the boots or replace them entirely after they stop fitting.

Discover More Details ›
Are slip on shoes better? ›

Slip-on shoes excel in convenience, style versatility, and ease of wear, making them an excellent choice for those on the go. On the other hand, running shoes prioritize support, shock absorption, and traction, catering to individuals who engage in physical activities.

Know More ›
Is Vans slip-on good? ›

Good quality, non slip, comfortable and fit just right. I got husband matching ones too. I have been searching for the Rosette color and I am so happy I found them here!

Show Me More ›
Who wears Vans Old Skool? ›

Rihanna, Megan Fox, Kourtney Kardashian, Ariana Grande, and Emily Ratajowski went for the Old Skool Vans in white and black. Sophie Turner wore the Old Skool Vans adorned with a flame design. Kim Kardashian and Olivia Rodrigo have black and white checkered shoes.

Learn More Now ›

Are Vans Old Skool still cool? ›

Since its debut in 1977, this low-top silhouette has established itself as an icon in the skate, music, and fashion scenes. From 90s street skaters and punks to current hip hop and fashion legends, the Old Skool has consistently been the go-to shoe for creatives who do things their own way.

Read The Full Story ›
What type of shoe is Vans Old Skool? ›

Overview The Old Skool, the Vans classic skate shoe and first to bare the iconic sidestripe, is a low top lace-up featuring sturdy canvas and synthetic uppers, re-enforced toe caps to withstand repeated wear, padded collars for support and flexibility, and signature rubber waffle outsoles.

View More ›
Are you supposed to wear socks with Vans slip-ons? ›

For example, if you're wearing Vans for short periods, it's fine to go without socks. But if it's warm weather or you're doing something active, you'll probably get a build-up of sweat quite quickly without socks. This could make your shoes slippery, then sticky, and then unpleasant.

Keep Reading ›
Are Vans good for walking all day? ›

Vans shoes offer great support with a comfortable fit all day long. The ultimate combination of function and style, they are ideal for walking due to a sturdy rubber sole and flexible canvas construction. While deck shoes or boat shoes are great for the beach, the beauty of Vans lies in their impressive versatility.

Read On ›
Should slip on vans be tight or loose? ›

The sign of good slip-ons is that they feel naturally snug – not tight, not loose.

View Details ›
Do slip-on Vans run big or small? ›

The Vans Classic Slip-On fits snugly compared to other Vans sneakers. This is because the sneaker has no laces. However, the Slip-On quickly adapts to your foot, although the sneakers may feel a bit narrow at first.

Discover More Details ›
Do you size up or down for Vans Old Skool? ›

Vans Old Skool styles tend to fit true to size, with no need to adjust up or down for most designs. However, if you have slightly wider feet, then it might be worth ordering a half or full size up or selecting the wide sizing Customs option, particularly if you're purchasing a Tapered pair of Old Skools.

Tell Me More ›
Do Vans Old Skool shoes run big or small? ›

Most Vans do fit true to size, especially the core models like the Old Skools or Authentics. Some of the other models like the Eras or other Vans Vault collaborations, may run a little bigger. Vans are such a simple shoe, especially compared to other sportswear or high fashion sneakers.

Discover More Details ›
Are van slip-ons supposed to be loose? ›

The sign of good slip-ons is that they feel naturally snug – not tight, not loose. They shouldn't fall off when you sit on a wall. The perfect tightness is achieved through elastic.

See Details ›

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