Vans Blends Its Iconic Style with a Classic Boot in This Sneakily Rugged Sneaker

Part Half Cab, part desert boot, this footwear is far more capable (and comfy) than any skate shoe ought to be.

Vans

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By Sean Tirman

Published 2 hours ago

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Once a scrappy outfit out of Anaheim, California, Vans has, over its 60-year history, become one of the world’s most recognized sneaker, apparel and lifestyle brands.

While perhaps best known for its alternative styling, the brand does, from time to time, play around with refinement, especially with its elevated OTW sub-label.

Such is the case with one of its latest launches, the Vans OTW Chukka 49 Vibram, which melds the brand’s signature sneaker style with an absolutely legendary boot.

Black suede high-top sneaker with white rubber sole and gray laces on a beige background. — While it might fool casual observers, this is not, in fact, a Half Cab.

Pumped-up kicks

If you were to look at these sneakers and mistake them for Half Cabs, one of the brand’s most iconic sneakers, you could be forgiven. They do have some elements in common with legendary skater Steve Caballero’s signature shoe.

For instance, they have a premium suede upper similar to the Half Cab. They also share a medium height, putting them between the brand’s classic low-tops (like the Old Skool) and Hi-Tops.

Pair of off-white suede mid-top sneakers with gray laces and white rubber soles. — The refinement of this sneaker comes from its inspiration: the iconic Chukka boot.

However, the overall shape and lacing system borrow inspiration from elsewhere in the footwear world. These sneakers, as their name suggests, are made to mimic the overall look of Chukkas. More specifically, they carry the same vibe as minimalist desert boots.

They do still maintain some classic sneaker elements, like a padded collar, eyestay reinforcements and a reinforced heel. However, even these elements are downplayed to make for a far more pared-down appearance overall.

The upper is crafted from premium suede with reinforcements where you need them and a padded collar for extra comfort.

Vans

Desert stompers

Perhaps the most significant upgrades to this shoe are ones you can’t actually see, at least at first glance. Take the outsole, for instance.

Instead of a classic vulcanized rubber sole with a waffle pattern, as is typical with the vast majority of Vans catalog, this one instead gets a Vibram outsole with a tank tread pattern. Not only does the rubber upgrade mean it’s sturdier and more stable, but it also offers better traction than its more pedestrian alternative.

This sneaker benefits from a rare upgrade: a Vibram outsole offering even more traction and stability.

Vans

To match that outsole, Vans has also given this shoe a Sola Foam ADC (All-Day Comfort) insole. Made using at least 30% biobased PU foam, this makes for an even more comfortable step than the brand’s classic sneakers.

While I wouldn’t suggest wearing these out for a hike, and they might not be formal, they’re certainly more capable and refined than their siblings. And they’re a welcome upgraded stylistic addition to the brand’s other timeless, proven offerings.

Black canvas sneaker with gray laces and white rubber sole showing patterned brown outsole. — The sneaker comes in classic Black or Marshmallow White.

Availability and pricing

The Vans OTW Chukka 49 Vibram is now available in Black or Marshmallow White on the brand’s official site for $110 per pair.

Off-white suede high-top sneaker with gray laces and white rubber sole on a beige background.

Vans OTW Chukka 49 Vibram

$110 at Vans

About the Author: Sean Tirman is an associate editor at Gear Patrol who specializes in EDC, cannabis and outdoor gear.

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