top of page
Search
molineaux

Vans Old Skool vs. Vans Old Skool Skate Edition



person holding an armful of vans shoes
Vans vs Vans Skate

Table of Contents


Introduction

Few sneakers bring the iconic status that the Vans Old Skool does to the table. They were released in 1977, and the Old Skool has managed to finally become part of not only fashion but also of skate culture's wardrobe. For those heavily engaged in skateboarding and skating, though, there is a very important difference between the regular Vans Old Skool and the Vans Old Skool Skate Edition that one has to keep in mind. However, this difference is not limited purely to aesthetics. There is a big difference in terms of functionality and durability. Now let's get into the specifics, focusing on popcush insoles and Duracap under layer.

A pair of Vans Old Skool Skate Edition with checkerboard label
Vans Old Skool Skate Edition


Aesthetically and Design Differences

The regular-variant Vans Old Skool and Skate Edition don't seem like they have shaken up too much from the outside, given they both boast the classic low-top silhouette, alongside a signature side stripe and the familiar waffle outsole. The first of these design differences sets the Skate Edition ahead with its hallmark reinforced stitching, slightly more rugged materials, and added padding in critical areas—attributes aimed at withstanding the rigors of skateboarding. These pro updates have been built to deliver both maximum durability and reinforced functions for the demands of pro-level quality skateboarding.


a pair of vans popcush innersoles
Vans Pocush Innersoles


Popcush Insoles: Comfort Meets Performance

One of the standout features of the Vans Old Skool Skate Edition is that it comes with Popcush insoles. This includes a pair of specially tailored Popcush insoles that provide easy comfort and added performance when it's time to skate. Here's how:


Enhanced Cushioning: Popcush insoles are designed for enhanced cushioning and, therefore, quite significant in absorbing all kinds of shocks and impacts related to skateboarding. Whether landing tricks or just cruising down the street, this extra layer of cushion helps reduce foot fatigue and injury risk.


Better Energy Return: Their unique make-up actually provides more energy return than the Vans Paloma Mesh insole that the brand used to use, letting the skaters maintain their momentum while providing an even more forgiving platform for landing your tricks. It's a game-changer for serious skateboarders looking to push their performance over the edge.


Long-Lasting Comfort: Unlike traditional insoles, Vans Popcush insoles maintain their shape and cushioning over the entire life of the insoles, so the Vans Old Skool Skate Edition will be a more durable choice for everyday wear. What is it then?





Vans Duracap Nose underlay
Vans Duracap




Duracap Under Layer

It is yet another feature of the Vans Old Skool Skate Edition—grip-boosting and board-saving—but went further with the Duracap under layer. This proprietary reinforcement technology was deliberately designed—with only the hardest, highest-impact skateboarding in mind—to bond to key, high-wear zones on your shoe, thereby increasing the shoe's life tenfold under these intense parameters. Here are some other ways it benefits you:


Extended Wear: Duracap under layers are specifically placed in areas that are more likely to develop wear and tear: areas like the toe box and ollie area. Often thin and sensitive, particularly in this part of the shoe, it is strengthened, and thus it protects the fabric from tearing, therefore greatly extending the life of the shoes.


Reinforced Structure: The Duracap under layer does not only contribute to the durability of the shoe, but it actually reinforces the overall structure. It also means that, as layers wear out, the underlying material will still provide support and protection.


Cost-Effective: Regular skateboard shoes easily get worn out, which is a very tiresome and expensive affair for a skateboarder who wants to replace them with new ones. Skate Edition greatly reduces the replacement of such kind of shoes, thus more value for the long run, although the upfront cost is slightly higher.



a sample of Vans Duracap and a pair of vans popcush innersoles
Popcush Cushions and Duracap Underlay

Performance and User Experience

What one has to keep in mind between the regular Vans Old Skool and the Skate Edition is the user experience. The regular Old Skool is designed for wear and has all the elements of comfort and style complemented by a classic look that pairs with almost every kind of outfit. The standard Old Skool is great for regular, day-to-day use, casual outings, and not specifically skating applications. The marriage between Popcush insoles and the under layering of Duracap ensures that, whatever tricks or turns are performed, the sides of skaters are well supported and cushioned. Skaters will appreciate the added grip, impact protection, and longevity, all of which make the Skate Edition a reliable skate companion.


Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Vans Old Skool and Vans Old Skool Skate Edition keep a classic look that has made them so popular, but the Skate Edition increases the net benefit for skateboarders. The addition of Popcush insoles and Duracap under layers address the needs of skaters, providing superior cushioning, impact protection, and durability. To sum up, the Skate Edition is a more dependable option than the regular Old Skool and indeed better for all those people that seek something more in their footwear. It remains a superb option for wearers who are only after refined, contained wear, while getting the best possible thing done on the skateboard. So, if you want the best performance, come up with the right pair of Vans for the perfect Old Skool you crave.



a pair of Vans old skool skate edition
Vans Old Skool Skate



Get your pair here at X-isle Skate Store, with free Shipping in the UK.








Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do normal Vans Old Skool come with the Popcush insoles?

A: No, they do not. They are only within the Skate Edition, made for better cushioning and energy return to the skaters.


Q: What is the Duracap under layer used for?

A: The Duracap under layer is to reinforce the high-wear areas of the shoe, adding tremendously to the increase in durability, thus extending the life of the shoe, especially under the stress of skateboarding.


Q: Can the Skate Edition be used for casual purposes?

A: Yes, it can, but while the Skate Edition is functional for daily wear, in its essence, it is made for skateboarding. The Old Skool could be a bit more beefy from that perspective, and the performance will be a bit different.


Q: Are there extra charges for all these over and above the normal Old Skool?

A: The Skate Edition will possibly be a bit pricier because it contains unique features like the extra Popcush insoles and the Duracap under layer, but it will give a better skateboarding value for those in need of something durable and high-performance.



113 views0 comments

Comentários


bottom of page