DNA deep-dive: THE VANS SLIP-ON

THE VANS SLIP-ON | WHAT'S THE DEAL?

It’s pretty clear Vans is no stranger to churning out icons, especially when you consider silhouettes in the brand’s archive like the Old Skool, Authentic, Era and Sk8-Hi. But even in that line-up, the Classic Slip-On is a strong contender for the most iconic, and easily the style most synonymous with the brand.

The Slip-On was the third style released by Vans, following on from earlier successes with the Era and the Old Skool. It first appeared in 1977 under the original title of Style #98, by which point the brand was already well rooted in Californian skate culture; by the end of the 1970s, Vans had 70 stores in California. Soon after its release, the Slip-On gained massive popularity with skateboarders and BMX riders.

Stripped to basics, the Slip-On is crafted from three main upper sections: the vamp, the quarter and the heel counter, which sit atop the brand’s signature waffle sole unit. The relatively simple design of the upper has allowed for endless revamps in different colours, patterns and materials.

Undoubtedly the most famous Slip-On style is the checkerboard. Story has it that Paul Van Doren, the son of Vans’ founder Steve Van Doren, noticed skaters using pens to customise the midsoles of their shoes with checkerboard patterns. Taking inspiration from that idea, Steve developed Vans’ now-iconic Checkerboard Slip-On.

This past month alone we’ve seen plenty of new updates on this humble silhouette. Vans’ Marvel collaboration released the checkerboard adorned with a torn-effect design and visible Hulk feet, two platform styles arrived for AW18 women’s, and fresh colourways also landed.

Currently taking the spotlight are the women’s platforms. Two styles — the checkerboard and the black canvas/white midsole — are updated with a subtle platform sole. It’s an easy dip into the chunky sneaker trend without going the whole hog and, importantly, it stays true to the brand’s core identity. While other brands fight a game of one-upmanship over who’s releasing the bulkiest, most maximalist silhouette, the Slip-On is refreshingly simple. No Triple S Slip-Ons here. *Watch this space*

Shop Vans Slip-Ons

Vans Classic Slip-On Canvas Black Trainers View product

two platform styles

I’d argue, maybe incorrectly, that in 2018 most people who wear a Classic Slip-On don’t skate. Why? Because it’s a damn easy shoe to wear, whatever your personal style. Wearers of the Slip-On can rest happily in the fact that they’re proudly rocking an understated icon that adds to the outfit, rather than becoming the whole outfit.

That simplicity is the Slip-On’s real strength: it works with denim, shorts, relaxed tailoring and everyday workwear without taking over the whole outfit.