Vans’ Chunky New Sneaker Blends ’90s Attitude and a Luxe Build

The Knu Skool Shoe mixes Vans’ signature skate style with premium materials, elevating the iconic silhouette.

Pair of black and white Vans sneakers shown from the back on a yellow background.

Add Gear Patrol as a Preferred Source on Google

By Hayley Helms

Published May 5, 2026

·

Updated May 5, 2026

If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more

There are plenty of low-profile, retro runner-inspired lifestyle sneakers releasing in 2026, but there are few new shoes that can match the energy and attitude of Vans’ latest debut.

The Knu Skool Shoe effortlessly mixes Off the Wall skate style with luxury-minded materials, all built on Vans’ signature sole.

Pair of black and white Vans sneakers with thick white soles on a beige background. — The Knu Skool is a refreshing alternative to the sea of low-profile sneakers that have been dominating the footwear landscape in 2026.

Puff, puff, Vans

The Knu Skool was originally introduced in 1998 as a spiritual successor to the Old Skool, and expertly demonstrates the era’s penchant for puffed-up, oversized skate silhouettes that were packed with as much attitude as they were cushioning.

Black leather Vans sneaker with white side stripe and thick white rubber sole. — The extra-puffy 3D Sidestripe offers retro flair and modern sensibility.

The 2026 Knu Skool takes that edgy profile up a notch, layering in premium materials that give the chunky retro shoe a fresh perspective.

The view from the back really puts the super-plush collar and tongue on full display.

Vans

The upper is crafted from smooth leather that gives the shoe both durability and polish. The reissued ’90s low top maintains its puffy look, with the oversized tongue and padded collar providing extra comfort.

The wide laces and inflated 3D Sidestripe add a touch of throwback style, and the rubber sidewall with classic foxing stripe brings the whole package together.

Pair of black Vans leather sneakers with thick black laces and rubber soles on a light background. — The new release is available in two classic Vans color treatments, including Blackout (pictured).

Underfoot, the vulcanized build maintains the original look and feel of the sneaker, and the signature waffle outsole bridges past and present.

The updated icon is available in two classic colorways: traditional Black/ True White and a monochromatic Blackout.

Availability and pricing

The Knu Skool Shoe is available now on Vans’ website, retailing for $95.

Black and white low-top sneaker with thick white sole and black laces.

Vans Knu Skool Shoe

$95 at Vans

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.