Last Updated: October 28, 2025 | By: The BootsGuru Team
When it comes to skate culture and lifestyle footwear, one name has stood the test of time: Vans. Founded in 1966 by the Van Doren brothers, Vans icons like the Authentic, Old Skool, and Classic Slip-On have defined casual style for decades. But finding the perfect fit, especially when buying online, can be tricky. Does the Old Skool fit the same as the Authentic? Do Vans run big or small?
As footwear experts, we’re here to cut through the confusion. This is your definitive Vans sizing guide. We’ll break down how Vans generally fit and, more importantly, the specific sizing quirks of each iconic model to ensure you get the perfect pair, the first time.
Vans sizing is consistent, but knowing how to measure is key.
The Quick Answer: How Do Vans Fit?
Here’s the bottom line upfront:
- In general, classic Vans (like the Authentic and Era) fit true to size. We recommend ordering your standard sneaker size.
- Some models (like the Old Skool and Slip-On) can feel slightly roomy. If you are between sizes (e.g., a 9.5 or 10), we recommend going with the smaller size (9.5) for a snug fit.
- Vans are known for a medium (D) width. They can feel narrow, especially through the midfoot.
Vans Sizing Chart (Men’s/Women’s/UK/EU)
Always use your foot measurement (CM) as the most accurate starting point. Note how the US Women’s size is the US Men’s size + 1.5 (e.g., Men’s 8.5 = Women’s 10).
| US Men | US Women | UK | EU | Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.0 | 7.5 | 5.0 | 38.0 | 24 |
| 6.5 | 8.0 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 24.5 |
| 7.0 | 8.5 | 6.0 | 39.0 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 9.0 | 6.5 | 40.0 | 25.5 |
| 8.0 | 9.5 | 7.0 | 40.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 10.0 | 7.5 | 41.0 | 26.5 |
| 9.0 | 10.5 | 8.0 | 42.0 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 11.0 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 27.5 |
| 10.0 | 11.5 | 9.0 | 43.0 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 12.0 | 9.5 | 44.0 | 28.5 |
| 11.0 | 12.5 | 10.0 | 44.5 | 29 |
| 11.5 | 13.0 | 10.5 | 45.0 | 29.5 |
| 12.0 | 13.5 | 11.0 | 46.0 | 30 |
| 13.0 | 14.5 | 12.0 | 47.0 | 31 |
How to Measure Your Feet for the Perfect Vans Fit
Don’t guess your size. Use the “wall and paper” method – it takes 60 seconds and is the most accurate way to buy shoes online.
- Place a piece of paper on a hard floor, flush against a wall.
- Stand on the paper with your heel firmly touching the wall.
- Using a pen or pencil held straight up and down, trace the outline of your longest toe.
- Use a ruler to measure the distance from the edge of the paper (where your heel was) to the toe mark. This is your foot length in centimeters.
- Measure Both Feet: It’s very common for one foot to be larger. Always use the measurement from your larger foot.
- Compare your “cm” measurement to the size chart above to find your true Vans size.
Iconic styles like the Authentic, Old Skool, and Slip-On have defined the brand.
Vans Sizing by Model: An Honest Fit Guide
Here’s the real-world fit advice for the most popular Vans styles, based on our experience and extensive feedback.
Vans Authentic
The Honest Take: This is the baseline. The Vans Authentic fits true to size with a standard, slightly narrow width. It has a simple canvas upper and a snug fit that breaks in and molds to your foot over time. If you know your standard sneaker size, order that. If you have wide feet, it may feel tight across the ball of your foot.
Vans Old Skool
The Honest Take: The Old Skool (and its high-top sibling, the Sk8-Hi) often feels slightly roomier than the Authentic, especially in the toe box, due to the different construction and padded collar. Many people find them true to size, but if you’re between sizes or prefer a very snug fit, we recommend going a half-size down. The suede/canvas combo is durable and the padded collar adds comfort.
Vans Sk8-Hi
The Honest Take: Like the Old Skool, the Sk8-Hi fits true to size for most , but feels a bit more substantial due to the high-top design and padded ankle. The fit is secure, but it requires a little more breaking in around the ankle. Stick with your true size or go down half a size if you’re between.
Vans Classic Slip-On
The Honest Take: Slip-Ons are notorious for stretching out. They tend to run slightly large or wide to allow your foot to slide in. We strongly recommend ordering a **half-size down** from your true size. You want them to feel very snug (even a bit tight) at first. The canvas will stretch and mold to your foot, and this prevents the dreaded “heel slip” that plagues loose-fitting Slip-Ons.
Vans Era
The Honest Take: The Era is essentially an Authentic with a padded collar. The fit is nearly identical: **true to size** with a standard width. The padded collar adds a bit of comfort and helps lock your heel in slightly better than the Authentic. A very reliable, true-to-size fit.
A Note on “ComfyCush” vs. “Classic”
Vans now offers many of its iconic styles (like the Old Skool and Authentic) in a ComfyCush version. This is a modern update that uses a co-molded foam and rubber sole, making the shoe significantly **lighter and more cushioned** (less like a stiff skate shoe, more like a modern sneaker). This does not generally affect the length or sizing, but it makes the shoe feel much softer and more comfortable right out of the box.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do Vans run big or small?
Vans generally run true to size, especially classic lace-up models like the Authentic and Era. Models like the Old Skool and Slip-On can feel slightly roomier, so we often recommend going a **half-size down** if you are between sizes or prefer a very snug fit, as they will stretch.
Are Vans good for wide feet?
Vans are typically made in a standard “D” width and can feel narrow for people with wide (E) or extra-wide (EE) feet, especially across the midfoot. The Classic Slip-On may feel a bit wider, but your best bet is to look for specific “Wide” models if available or try them on in-store, as the standard canvas can be unforgiving.
Do Vans stretch or break in?
Yes, absolutely. The canvas uppers on models like the Authentic and Slip-On will stretch and soften significantly, molding to your foot. This is why we recommend buying Slip-Ons very snug, as they will loosen up with wear.
How is Vans sizing compared to Nike or Adidas?
Vans sizing is generally very similar to other major sneaker brands like Nike, Adidas, and Converse. We recommend ordering the **same size** you wear in most of your other athletic shoes.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Fit
Now that you have the tools to understand Vans sizing, you can confidently choose the right fit for your style. Whether you’re aiming for a classic look with the Vans Authentic (true to size) or the easy-going comfort of the Classic Slip-On (go a half-size down), you’re sure to make a statement.
Choosing the right size is crucial for comfort. By measuring your feet, understanding the specific quirks of each model, and checking the size chart, you can confidently select the perfect pair. Vans’ rich history, diverse styles, and commitment to quality make them a top choice for anyone seeking exceptional footwear.
