If there’s one brand that catches sneakerheads rocking the streets, it’s Vans. From the launch of their authentic shoes, right up to their latest collections, Vans have been developed to be inclusive of all genders. Think of any classically recognized subculture, whether skate oriented or surf, or a blend of music and art, it’s hard to disconnect that from Vans.
Established in 1966 by brothers Jim Van and Paul, Vans were acclaimed for having thicker soles and more durable duck canvas uppers compared to most of their competitors. Perhaps that’s why they were widely adopted by skateboarders.
Vans has been in the footwear industry for years, offering models of all designs, styles and sizes that can be worn and enjoyed by anyone. You can find designs that are more masculine or more feminine as every shoe is meant to be stylish and comfortable.
However, when it comes to fit, one common question that we often get asked is whether Vans come in wide fit. So here is an insider look at how Vans actually fit and inspires all genders to express themselves. This article seeks to answer the question with a more detailed clarification based on the company’s website and reviews from previous buyers.
Do Vans Come In Wide or Medium?
Generally Vans shoes have a medium width but are often rated as narrower in comparison to other brands. Since they’re made to last, it’s important to get the right fit, thus we recommend you try before you buy.
Another quick note regarding wide feet is that Vans shoes are performance footwear that by design isn’t loose or wide. That means they might fit too narrow, especially for those with wide feet. Still, you do have options.
You can order Vans wide sizing by actually hitting the Vans “Custom” page. This is where you can make custom changes, which includes ordering particularly wide fit shoes. Check here to view the custom wide options available at Vans.com.
Meanwhile, when compared to Nike, Vans size tends to differ. Nike often runs smaller than Vans, therefore, if you’re switching between the two, be sure to follow the individual size charts.
Some people also ask whether Vans are wider than Converse. Usually, Vans are not wider than converse. This includes Vans Old School, Vans Sk8-Hi, Vans Authentic, Vans UltraRanger EXO, and Vans Slip On. All of these shoes tend to have a narrow design.
Vans are also available in half sizes, except for those above sizes UK 10, which are only available in full sizes. In case you take a larger size and you’re normally in between two sizes, we recommend that you go for a size up.
What to Know About Vans Sizing
Vans shoes fit true to size, which makes the entire sizing process quite simple. The shoes are available in half sizes- although as stated, sizes from UK 11 are only offered in full sizes. However, you can always consider going a half size up if you’re often in between two sizes.
For instance, if you normally wear a UK 11.5, go up half a size and get a UK 12. To determine the most suitable fit, use a ruler to measure your foot from the back of heel to longest toe. Then record the centimeter measurements. Below is a chart of Vans size.
| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | Length (cm) |
| 6 | 5 | 38 | 24 |
| 6.6 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 6 | 39 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 6.6 | 39.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 7 | 40 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 7.5 | 40.5 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 8 | 41 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 8.5 | 41.5 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 9 | 42 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 9.5 | 42.5 | 28.5 |
| 11 | 10 | 43 | 29 |
| 11.5 | 10.5 | 43.5 | 29.5 |
| 12 | 11 | 44 | 30 |
Vans Diverse Design
Vans’ great popularity is built on equality, diversity and stylish footwear. The manufacturer has spent years developing and perfecting a comfy, long-lasting, sticky-soled skate shoes that anyone can choose to take on the street or skate park. While their customers are diverse, Vans states that they ensure their designs are equally as diverse.
The fact that skate culture often seems as male-dominated has made Vans to come up with great unisex options borrowing inspiration from a group of inspirational women from the US, Japan and Brazil who shared their skating experience.
Speaking of diversity, Vans seeks to provide everyone the chance to represent themselves. Perhaps that’s why they previously partnered with “Girls Skate India” which helps young individuals to enjoy the world of skating.
Reading on the company’s website, Vans focus on creativity and how they can support young individuals in getting creative and gaining confidence from the field of skateboarding.
Thanks to their line of unisex skate shoe, they are designed to empower the skate community as a whole. That means you can easily put on a pair of Vans and achieve great moments.
Difference Between Men’s and Women’s Vans
Is there any difference between men’s and women’s Vans, given that they’re often considered a unisex shoe? The point is there’s a few subtle differences in Vans shoes. This size ranges on offer, where men often require larger sizes, and the colors/patterns that customers want.
Style
Vans sneakers are available in a range of styles, from standard to slightly feminine and masculine. It’s good to note that some of their masculine styles might be harder to find in smaller women’s sizes and vice versa.
That said, all of them do have the same trademark Vans fit and medium width. Shoppers will still have access to all Vans most iconic styles when they shop based on their gender. The only difference is that you’re more likely to find your perfect size.
Size
Although nearly all Vans are labeled with unisex sizing, some styles are however classified by gender, considering that women’s styles don’t have the same sizing run as men’s. For instance, men’s shoes are offered up to a UK size 15, where women’s shoes go up to a UK size 8.5.