Our verdict

There's so much that's already been said about the Vans Authentic but if there is one thing I can confirm, it lives up to being a classic. It's a shoe that began an entire movement in the California skate culture. Since then, through Vans' stubborn connection to its roots, you wear pretty much the same shoe as people did nearly 60 years ago. That's because it's not only a silhouette that works with any wardrobe but based on the tests I performed, it has an incredibly durable and lasting construction.

Plimsolls VANS Comfycush Authent VN0A3WM747B1 FlameembrodryLprdmshwlm Pros

  • Eternal silhouette
  • Fits true to size
  • Plimsolls VANS Comfycush Authent VN0A3WM747B1 FlameembrodryLprdmshwlm
  • Breathable
  • Easy to slip on and off
  • Minor Defect Vans Era Meadow Brand New Without Original

Plimsolls VANS Comfycush Authent VN0A3WM747B1 FlameembrodryLprdmshwlm Cons

  • Could use some more padding
  • Vans' canvas shoes always attract stains
  • Vans кеды Era 59

Size and fit

Size

Vans Authentic is true to size (3751 votes).

Кеди оригінал vans authentic x peanuts snoopy 38 принт?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 110 trainers
Rucsac VANS Realm Flying V VN0A3UI8V1C1 Cradle Pink
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Vans Authentic Flat LayPlimsolls VANS Comfycush Authent VN0A3WM747B1 FlameembrodryLprdmshwlm

The Vans Authentic came from humble beginnings

The Vans Authentic, originally the forgettably named Vans Style #44 is a monument of sneaker history. They are maybe the perfect example of the three characteristics a sneaker needs to be successful for decades: versatility, simplicity, and comfort.

Vans-Authentic-Angled.jpg

First forged in 1966 as a deck shoe, the Authentics went on to be the foundations of skate culture in California, and then around the world. By the late 70s skateboarding and Vans were practically synonymous. 

Now though, in the 2020s, does a rigid stubbornness for form pay homage to the Authentics, or could they use just a wee bit more of an update for the everyday user? 

An easy silhouette for any outfit

Vans Authentic Review Wear TestPlimsolls VANS Comfycush Authent VN0A3WM747B1 FlameembrodryLprdmshwlm

Following the classic model, I picked up a white colorway of the Vans Authentics. They’re a simple, easy silhouette that’s versatile and works well with loads of outfits. 

Plimsolls VANS Comfycush Authent VN0A3WM747B1 FlameembrodryLprdmshwlm | Simple materials simply work

Vans Authentic Canvas Outsole

The Authentics fit true to size and their canvas construction makes for an easy shoe to chuck on on your way out of the door. The canvas also makes the Authentics super breathable, and comfortable in hot weather, and sockless, if you so choose. 

Plimsolls VANS Comfycush Authent VN0A3WM747B1 FlameembrodryLprdmshwlm | The Vans Authentics are not my go-to winter shoe

They’re definitely not made for colder weather and rain. It took only a be of weatherproof testing to figure out that any water above the rubber midsole is just going to get straight through the canvas. 

Vans Authentic Waterproof Review

Midsole? What midsole?

Speaking of the midsole, it’s not really there. While the Authentics may have been the original “skate shoe”, now there’s not enough support there to protect your feet at all. This is quite common among the original Vans lineup and definitely pushes skaters towards their Skate (formerly Pro) series. 

Vans Authentic Review Bend Testing

The Authentics take a bit of time to wear in and did become somewhat formed to my feet, but there’s still not much there in terms of comfort. The lack of structure through the midsole and inner also means that the shoe bends quite sharply and doesn’t follow the shape of your foot. 

Vans Authentic Bend Testing

Like all the OG Vans, the Authentic loves a stain 

Of all the canvas Vans that I’ve tested, I’ve not found a pair that’s resistant to stains, and the Authentics are no different. Maybe Vans get away with it because of the long history of customising Vans or their connection to the not-so-clean skate scene. 

Vans Authentic Review Stain Upper

Either way, stains that get on the upper will probably stay there, which is something to keep in mind, and something I definitely feel that Vans could address. 

Vans Authentic Stain Testing Clean

It’s no wonder the silhouette has lasted this long

Stain concerns aside, the upper construction of the Vans Authentic is surprisingly strong. For a shoe at this price point, they can really take a beating. This would definitely subordinateto into the beat-up sneaker look that the Authentic fits so well into. 

Vans Authentic Outsole Detail

Whatever you think, the Vans Authentic is a classic sneaker

Ultimately the Vans Authentic could be more comfortable, more protective, and easier to clean. But, with a heritage so imbibed in sneaker culture, Vans have proven time and time again that they don’t need to constantly chase new technology in their shoes, to make something great. 

VANS x Supreme Half-Cab at?