From the streets of Orange County in California in 1966 to the feet of pool skaters of the 70s and 80s, Vans are still everywhere. Whether in the latest streetwear looks or even just as a poolside essential, Vans sets the standard for easygoing style—especially in the summer.
But what are some other slip-on alternatives? Here are the latest icons that match the California aesthetic but have an unexpected twist. Snag these if you’re looking for some new summer slip-ons.
A similar overall look to the Vans Classic Slip-On, Converse Skateboarding’s CC Slip-On channels the same low-profile design nuances while updating the style with skate-specific durability and cushioning. Formed with a resilient suede upper, this shoe is enhanced with OrthoLite sock liners and Nike Zoom Air Bags to improve protection against impact.
Mike Amiri’s California apparel label offers his signature spin on streetwear and luxury clothing. From thrashed skinny jeans to airbrushed trucker jackets and distressed flannels, AMIRI is just like a rock star’s closet. The Skel Toe Slip-On draws inspiration from the Venice skate scene, featuring a classic canvas slip-on design with a vulcanized midsole and a hand-cut leather applique in the shape of a skeletal foot. Lined with a calf-leather insole for maximum comfort, this shoe is an easy accessory to pair with grungy staples like graphic tees, ripped jeans and boxy-fit sweatshirts.
In Hender Scheme’s ‘Hommage Collection,’ one of the standout styles is the MIP-17 Nubuck Sneakers, which mirror the look of the Vans Classic Slip-On. Instead of canvas and rubber, these shoes are crafted with vegetable tanned leathers, suede and nubuck. The leather is designed to caramelize in color with wear to create a nice patina, worn-in over time, making each shoe unique to its wearer.
Inspired by the style legacy of renowned skateboarding and fashion icon Dylan Rieder, the Dylan silhouette from HUF blends upscale sophistication with skate-ready technology. The shoe’s “board to nightlife” aesthetic combines a premium leather upper on a slip-on last with OrthoLite insoles for better breathability and comfort.
Like many of Common Project’s signature offerings, the Suede Slip-On Sneakers are every bit as minimalist as its predecessors, blending design nuances from Vans’ iconic styles. Redefining the traditional comfort of a classic slip-on shoe, this variation features a calf suede upper that’s complemented with a full leather lining. Additionally, this silhouette is contrasted with a white rubber midsole and the brand’s familiar gold serial number at the heel.
The Gucci Kura Denim Slip-On Sneakers merge an easy-going summer essential with laid-back Italian craftsmanship and comfortable shoe. From poolside to errand running, this sneaker has become a staple in the Gucci footwear lineup. The upper features a faded denim textile, while the top of the shoe is embroidered with a throwback Gucci logo that matches the brand’s traditionally loud logo broadcasting. Lastly, the shoe is lined with premium leather insoles for optimal comfort.
Building off the classic design of Nike SB team member Stefan Janoski’s signature skate shoe, the SB Zoom Janoski RM Slip-On removed the original lacing system to rework the shoe into a minimalist silhouette. Still created for skating, this shoe features a suede upper with durable stitching around the toe and a vulcanized midsole for better board feel. Lastly, this iteration is updated with a new insole for better cushioning and protection against impact when skating.
