15 Reasons Why Vans Shoes Are So Expensive

If you’re wondering why Vans shoes are so expensive even today, the answer is simply their relevance in culture, the love it received from skater and rapper communities, and celebrities. Moreover, they’re stylish, durable, good-quality shoes. 

Vans shoes are undoubtedly cool with their low-cut profile, colorful design, and vintage aesthetics. They’re a good cross between casual and athletic that is so popular these days. You can style Vans with practically anything. They’ve been around so long that there are countless references to these shoes in pop culture. 

There are other contributing factors to the pricing of Vans. Keep on reading to find out.

Why Vans Shoes Are So Expensive – 15 Reasons Behind Their Pricing

Vans shoes have been around since the 60s. By now, they have distribution around the globe. Their shoes are manufactured overseas in countries with lower manufacturing costs like Vietnam. Even so, Vans start at $60.

This begs the question, why are vans shoes so expensive? Here’s a list of reasons for you to better understand their pricing.

1. They’re Part of The American Culture

Even though the company came about in 1966 in California, it saw large-scale success for the first time after Vans Era designed by Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta become the ‘it’ shoe for skaters in 1976.

By the 80s, the shoes were embraced by pop culture and film fans. Sean Penn wore the Vans Classic slip-on in the movie “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”.  Since then, Vans gets attention from mainstream media on and off. Evidently, it’s a small part of The American Story.

2. Trendy Vintage Designs

Vans’ bestsellers are shoes they came up with within the first decades of the company being established. The first Old Skool shoes were introduced in 1977. To date, it’s one of their most popular styles. The same year, the Classic slip-ons were introduced. 

That just goes to show that customers are driven to Vans because of these vintage designs and iconic looks. They don’t want the newest style, they want the classics that have been popular since the 80s.

3. Durable Shoes

Vans’ vulcanized rubber soles are extremely popular and known for their durability. Their canvas upper or sometimes suede upper, depending on the model, are also usually very strong, and make Vans’ comfortable to wear.

If you want the shoes for casual use, they’ll easily last more than a year even when worn regularly. With more care, you can expect the shoes to last a couple of years even with daily wear. 

However, skating in them is a completely different matter. Skaters usually blow through Vans in 2-12 months depending on the hours they train and the complexity of tricks performed. This lifespan is good for skating though, it’s nothing to scoff at.

4. The Shoes Are Athletic 

Vans first came into popularity because of its acceptance by athletes. Skaters and surfers were the most loyal customer base and still are. So, Vans were long known as athletic shoes.

In the past few years, athletic shoes have been all the rage. Especially, when you take Vans’ casual and cool looks into account, these shoes are trendy even now. Having such popularity makes them expensive.

5. Low Profile Flat Silhouette

Vans have a distinct silhouette. The shoes are low and flat with no arches to speak of. That’s a distinct and recognizable look. Apart from the look, flat shoes are better for activities like- lifting and skating. So, it also serves a functional purpose, rather than just a hip aesthetic.

6. Retains Shape Well

A lot of shoes lose their original shape once you wear them for a while. Not Vans. These shoes are good at retaining their original shape. Since the Vans shape is signature and distinct, that’s an important feature that makes the shoes more attractive. 

The process of vulcanization that Vans utilizes to mold its shoes is behind the lasting shape. 

7. Easy To Style

Vans go with your everyday pair of jeans as well as more formal clothes. You can wear them with your button-downs, polo shirts, or graphic-Ts. You can’t go wrong.

They’re fun to style and versatile. Most Vans also come in solid neutral colors that blend well with any color in your wardrobe. Vans also go well with summer dresses, shorts, and even athletic wear. 

8. Different Colors & Design Options

There’s no shortage of patterns and colors to choose from when it comes to Vans. You can get the classic checkerboard pattern, or patchwork upper, or try their Museum of Modern Art collection that features well-known artwork on the upper. 

This just goes to show that the people at Vans are still trying fresh ideas and coming up with new, refreshing designs. Such design efforts cost the company, thus the increased price.

9. Celebrities Love Them 

Just to give you an example of how popular Vans still are amongst celebrities, Harry Styles recently wore them to the last episode of ‘The Late Late Show With James Corden’.

Dressed in his expensive, custom-made corduroy suit, he paired it with classic Vans. Might I add what a style icon Harry is? Getting his stamp of approval is sure to add to Van’s popularity.

10. Hailed By The Skater Community

The skater community is the origin of Vans’ popularity. It’s why the company is where it is today. The founder of Vans, Van Doren has stated his loyalty to the skater community along with surfers and other athletes. That’s because skaters have stuck with the brand for decades now. 

11. Successful Collaborations

Vans is a master of collaborating with other brands. It has launched successful campaigns in collaboration with brands like Supreme, Kenzo, Rhude, Fear of God, WTAPS, KITH, Sandy Liang, Damien Hirst, etc. 

Collaborating with other brands is mutually beneficial and when done right earns both brands new customers. Vans are very good at partnering up with other brands for projects that add to Vans’ insane popularity.

12. Higher Demand Than Supply

There are economic factors always at play when it comes to the pricing of products. The simple equation of supply and demand is always relevant. Since the demand for Vans is quite high, it automatically allows the company to charge higher prices.

13. Appeal To All Age Groups

Vans have been around for so long and it’s relevant to date. They always think about that are Vans good or bad for your feet? So they produce sneakers for kids, men, and women. There are generations who’ve seen the company grow and come into the mainstream media. 

There are those who are just now getting introduced to the brand. It has appeal to everyone. It’s a rare brand that has been able to keep its shoes relevant for generations.

14. Excellent Quality

I have already mentioned how durable these shoes are. They’re made of high-quality, strong canvas or suede so Vans become popular quickly. The sole has the iconic waffle tread pattern that makes it slip-resistant. The shoe is molded with the vulcanization process, making it sturdy and suitable for regular use.

Because of their excellent quality, Vans can charge a bit extra for their shoes. Customers are always happy to pay for better quality.

15. Slip-Resistant Classic Outsoles

There are few outsoles as recognizable as Vans’ iconic waffle rubber outsoles. They’re not just remarkable for their style but also for functionality. The slip-resistant feature comes in very handy when it comes to athletic activities as well as casual wear. 

Only some everyday shoe brands offer slip-resistant shoes. Vans has the upper hand when it comes to the outsole quality.

Why Are Vault by Vans Sneakers More Expensive Than Vans Classics? 

The first notable difference between Vans Classics and Vans Vault is the shoe lining. The first one has a vinyl lining, while the second offers a pig skin lining. The heel cushioning also has pig skin. The lining on Vault is more durable than the Classics for sure. 

The insole too is slightly softer and the outsole is noticeably thicker. The heavier outsole gives it a more premium feel in my opinion. It’s still a lightweight shoe, great for everyday activity. 

Another notable difference is the rubber side walls on the Vault are higher. This gives Vans Vault more durability and stability. There’s a minimal adjustment to the color of the laces as well, making them off-white and enhancing the vintage feel.

These upgrades are behind the higher pricing of Vans Vault. For the additional $20 you pay, you do get more durable, slightly more comfortable, and stable shoes. 

There are people who love this premium label, while others think it doesn’t add much value. However, the differences are still worth the additional charge in my opinion.

Vans vs. Vault by Vans: Which One Is Right for You?

Vans are a classic footwear brand that caters to simpler styles made with good quality material suitable for regular use. On the other hand, the Vans Vault brand releases limited edition shoes with great detailing and better functionality. These shoes feature better craftsmanship and more premium materials.

Vans Classic	Vans Vault
Originated in 1966	Founded in 2004
Known for classic skating shoes	Known for limited-edition designs featuring big collaborations
Good material used in construction	Premium material & superior craftsmanship
Comparatively affordable	More Expensive

If you are looking for something that is classic, more affordable, offers good comfort, and adequate functionality, Vans Classic is the better choice. You’ll find these shoes to be easy to style, versatile, and minimal.

Vans Vault is a bit extra. It offers superior performance and a better build that is more stable and durable. The material used is generally premium and the detailing is a work of art. They release a lot of limited edition shoes in collaboration with big names. That’s what makes this brand a sought-after name in street style.

So, if you want something classic, minimal, and suitable for everyday wear Vans Classic is your brand. However, if you’re looking for more interesting, limited-edition shoes that perform better, Vans Vault is better. It’s what collectors dream of. 

FAQs

Final words

Why are Vans shoes so expensive? There are many contributing factors to Vans’ high pricing. In my opinion, its relevance in American culture, the trendy vintage designs, durability, athletic design, and low profile silhouette are important factors that make Vans popular. 

Mainstream popularity allows the brand to charge a bit extra. Not to mention, the shoes are made of quality material, have slip-resistant outsoles, retain their original shape, are easy to style, available in many colors and designs. Thus, it’s also a worthwhile purchase for people.

The skater community, celebs, and people of all age groups admire Vans. This has led to a huge demand, which further results in higher prices.