Vans Authentic (Checkerboard)

Vans Checkerboard - starring a checkerboard! Slip-Ons, Old Skooly, Sk8-Hi and other well-known and time-tested silhouettes in a checkerboard design. The roots of the use of this pattern on Vans date back to the late 70s when Steve Van Doren, son of founder Paul, noticed skaters colouring the white soles of the Slip-Ons with black marker to create that aforementioned checkered design. As with many other Vans models, the Checkerboard collection is based on the skate pop culture of the last century. The Checkerboards definitely became legendary after 1982, hand in hand with the premiere of the movie Golden Times at Ridgemont High, where they were worn by the film's main character, played by Sean Penn. Their clever two-tone design also makes them much easier to match with your outfit, so pick yours up here at Footshop!

The first chapter in the history of skateboarding and streetwear - Vans Authentic

If you're looking for the absolute foundation that started it all, it's the Vans Authentic. Originally introduced in 1966 as the Vans #44, these sneakers were the very first product the Van Doren brothers ever made in their California workshop. What began as a rugged casual shoe became the uniform of the nascent skateboarding community in the 1970s thanks to its incredible grip. The Authentic embodies the California lifestyle and hasn't changed its face in over half a century of existence - making it one of the most worn and recognizable silhouettes in the world.

Immortal design, waffle sole and premium LX version

The magic of the Vans Authentic lies in its genius built on minimalism. The low-profile construction uses a solid canvas upper to keep you lightweight and breathable. The key technological element is the vulcanised sole with the iconic waffle sole, which offers unrivalled contact with the surface (boardfeel). For discerning collectors and lovers of luxury, there is also the LX (Luxury) version. This premium range, formerly part of the Vault division, uses more luxurious materials such as fine leather or high gloss canvas and features a higher midsole without the typical black stripe, giving the shoe a clean and sophisticated look.

Interesting fact

Did you know that in the early days of Vans, customers could bring in their own fabric and have it made into their own unique pair of Vans Authentic in-store? This emphasis on creativity and self-expression has remained a model to this day. Today, the Authentic, whether in the classic design or the exclusive LX edition, is a popular choice for artists and fashion enthusiasts looking for a unisex design that goes with anything from summer dresses to wide baggy pants. It's a shoe that doesn't age, doesn't succumb to trends and gains character with every wear.