Many hikers wonder: Are Vans good for hiking? Known for their classic, casual style, Vans aren’t typically associated with hiking. However, we decided to test them on the trail, focusing on comfort, support, and durability.
Hiking demands sturdy shoes with ankle and arch support, plus protection from sharp rocks. We put Vans to the test to see if they can meet these needs. Keep reading to find out if Vans are a good choice for hiking or if traditional boots are a better option.
What Are Vans Shoes?
Vans shoes are a popular brand of footwear known for their casual, skateboarding-inspired design.
Originally introduced in 1966 by Paul Van Doren and three partners, Vans gained fame for their distinctive canvas upper and signature waffle sole, offering excellent grip and durability.
Over the years, Vans expanded its product line to include various styles such as slip-ons, high-tops, and low-tops, appealing to a wide range of fashion preferences.
Beyond skateboarding, Vans shoes have become a fashion staple, cherished for their comfort, versatility, and iconic checkerboard pattern. They are favored by individuals of all ages, who wear Vans for their laid-back, urban style.
Can You Hike in Vans Shoes?
Traditional Vans skate shoes aren’t suited for hiking due to their flat soles and minimal support. However, Vans’ MTE (Mountain Edition) and UltraRange lines are specifically designed for outdoor activities, including hiking.
These models offer enhanced grip, waterproofing, and insulation, making them more suitable for diverse terrains and weather conditions.
What Are the Best Vans Shoes for Hiking?
Although it’s best to wear proper hiking boots, you might get by with these three types of shoes on simple, smooth trails instead of Vans.
VANS Sk8-Hi Unisex Casual High-Top Skate Shoes
These Vans classic shoes are not just for skateboarding. Based on our testing, they make a decent option for light hikes as well.
The high-top design offers ankle support, a feature crucial when navigating rugged terrains.
And as anyone who’s ever worn Vans can attest, these shoes offer little grip, a feature further enhanced by the waffle-patterned outsole.
The canvas upper, while not water-resistant, does help keep your feet dry in light moisture conditions. Plus, the flatter footbed is good for people with less pronounced arches.
Vans Men’s Hi-top Trainers Sneaker
The Men’s Hi-Top Trainers from Vans fulfill more than just your fashion needs.
Our team has determined that this is a good bet for hiking in Vans in varied weather conditions.
The higher cut provides extra ankle support, a vital aspect of any good hiking boot.
Furthermore, the shoes’ classic design is coupled with a rugged sole that provides good traction on both dry and wet surfaces.
Although these shoes are not specifically designed for hiking, they perform quite well, especially considering they are essentially a pair of skater shoes.
Advantages of Using Vans for Hiking
While Vans is a brand generally designed for skateboarding, we sometimes wear Vans shoes on the trail, and that’s because they provide a series of advantages. Let’s explore the benefits of strapping on a pair of Vans for your next hiking adventure.
1. Comfort
Vans shoes are renowned for their comfort, making them a viable candidate for short walks on the trail. Their original silhouettes are typically designed with a regular fit and a midsole foam, which provides a cushioning effect each time your feet hit hard surfaces.
This, combined with the right pair of socks, can potentially prevent blisters and offer more coverage for your foot.
2. Weight
Unlike most hiking boots, Vans are lightweight. This can be a significant advantage on long hikes, especially in the mountains, where every ounce matters. Their canvas shoes, including the slip-ons, can make your hike feel less burdensome and more enjoyable.
3. Versatility
What sets Vans boots and shoes apart is their versatility. They offer different kinds of shoes that can handle various terrains, from wet terrains to snow to mud. Some are even re-engineered with better grip to tackle slippery rocks.
Yet, after thorough examination and testing, we found that they can also double as regular shoes for everyday use, providing excellent traction on both trails and city streets.
Disadvantages of Using Vans Shoes for Hiking
As popular as Vans skateboarding shoes are for their fashionable designs and comfort in casual use when it comes to hiking, they may not be your best option.
While they may be pretty comfortable and offer a good grip on asphalt or a skateboard, we noticed that Vans fall short in some areas critical for serious hiking. Let’s delve into the disadvantages.
1. Support
Vans classic shoes, primarily designed for street wear and skateboarding, lack the shock absorption quality and arch support typically provided by traditional hiking shoes.
Our experience suggests that the soft, flexible soles don’t provide the same level of protection or balance on uneven ground.
2. Traction
While classic Vans provide excellent traction on smooth surfaces like concrete or a skateboard deck, their grip on rocky or muddy terrain often falls short. They may not provide a really good grip when trekking over wet leaves or slippery rocks.
Moreover, in this study by Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, which focused on long-distance hikers on the Appalachian Trail, 40 to 60% of the participants experienced injuries due to lack of support and traction, which shows the importance of using appropriate gear during hikes.
3. Durability
Despite their reputation for being durable on city streets, Vans skateboarding shoes may not withstand the rigors of traction hiking and long-distance hiking.
The repeated pressure of stepping on rocks and roots when hiking in Vans can cause the fabric and soles to wear out faster.
However, our expert analysis indicates that compared to other sneaker brands, a good pair of Vans may still offer better value for money in terms of durability.
Do We Recommend Vans for Hiking
Having spent countless hours on rocky terrains, covering extended distances, and meticulously studying my footwear’s performance, here’s my expert take: Unless you are expecting a flat trail and excellent weather conditions, I do not recommend hiking in Vans, and here’s why.
When you’re tackling rocky terrain or covering long distances, you need shoes that cater to the specific needs of your feet. Classic Vans fall short in this department.
The arch support is minimal, and the cushioning doesn’t hold up well on rough trails, potentially leading to discomfort and even foot strain.
While Vans might suffice for short, casual walks on well-groomed paths, they’re ill-suited for the challenges of serious hiking.
I highly recommend exploring our articles on the best-performing hiking boots with ankle support and the top waterproof hiking boots and shoes for footwear options that are purpose-built to provide the necessary arch support, proper cushioning, and stability required to conquer rough terrains and cover long distances safely and comfortably.
Originating as a staple in the skateboarding community, Vans are typically used for casual walking on flat surfaces. However, their traction and range of styles have made them a favorite for many, even outside skating.
They’ve become a versatile sneaker option for those who prioritize comfort and style.
The arch length between the ball and heel of a Vans shoe is designed to reduce discomfort. However, it’s important to note that this may vary depending on personal fit and how broken in the shoe is. It’s always best to try them in person to see if they are suited for your feet.
Hiking shoes are designed with features like extra grip, good arch support, and breathable materials to handle tough terrain and slippery surfaces, while Vans are more of an everyday sneaker. That said, some Vans could do the job for a light, casual hike.
References:
- https://www.vans.com/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34301477/
