Vans’ Updated Icon Is Equal Parts Cool and Comfortable

The OTW Era 59 gets the subtly luxe treatment, elevating a timeless Vans silhouette while keeping its price point approachable.

Close-up of black Vans sneaker with white laces and white stitching on a yellow background.

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By Hayley Helms

Published 1 hour ago

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If you appreciate classic Vans styling but crave more comfort, there’s no better place to turn than the brand’s own OTW sub-label, where Vans applies contemporary design and upgraded materials to its iconic models.

The OTW Era 59 is the latest premium reinterpretation of the classic low-profile Era, maintaining its skate-ready DNA while incorporating elevated finishes and craftsmanship.

The OTW Era 59 is a premium take on the enduring Era silhouette, which has been in the Vans lineup since the late ’70s.

Vans

A classic, reborn

The Era, which originally debuted in 1976 as the Skate 95, has cemented itself over the years as one of Vans’ most well-known skate silhouettes.

The new OTW Era 59 layers in a high quality build and materials to the enduring design, helping it make the transition from solely skate shoe to lifestyle stunner.

The OTW sub-line transforms classic Vans models with upgraded builds.

Vans

First, the canvas upper is given an archive-inspired allover logo treatment, inspired by heritage Vans designs.

Next, the standard insole is replaced with OTW’s Sola Foam ADC insole, which offers increased cushioning and lightweight comfort underfoot.

Blue Vans canvas sneaker with white laces and gum rubber waffle sole shown from top and bottom. — The Vans Logo Navy version of the new OTW Era 59 is the most popular of the three colorway options.

Pair of blue Vans sneakers with white heel tabs and white soles featuring a black skateboard graphic and "OTW" text. — The leather heel detailing, matched with traditional canvas, adds quiet luxury to the recognizable shoe.

The OTW heel scab highlights the shoe’s upgraded build, while the signature waffle outsole preserves the style’s skate DNA.

Three core colorways, Marshmallow, Navy and Black, bridge the gap between past and present.

Black Vans sneaker with white laces and O.T.W by Vans printed on the beige insole. — The allover Vans logo print pays homage to archival designs. The OTW printed on the insole nods to the shoe’s premium build.

It appears that the premium take on the Era is resonating; almost half oof the Navy’s size run is sold out, and the Marshmallow and Black variants are not far behind.

Availability and pricing

The OTW Era 59 is available on Vans’ website, retailing for $80.

Off-white Vans low-top sneaker with black Vans logos and black heel tab.

Vans OTW Era 59

$80 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).

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