Vans shoes, known for their skate-inspired style, often raise the question of sizing, especially when compared to other popular athletic brands like Adidas. Understanding Vans’ unique sizing system is crucial for getting the right fit. This article will delve into the comparison between Vans and Adidas shoe sizes, providing a comprehensive guide to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Vans Sizing: A Unique Approach
Vans utilizes a unisex sizing model, meaning the same shoe last is used for both men’s and women’s shoes. This can lead to slight variations, typically around a half size difference, compared to brands like Adidas that employ separate lasts for men and women. Before ordering Vans, measuring your foot length in millimeters is highly recommended.
Vans vs Adidas: Direct Size Comparison
While you might generally wear the same size across various brands, discrepancies can arise, particularly in women’s sizes, due to Vans’ unisex approach. The table below provides a general comparison of Vans, Nike, Adidas, and Converse sizes based on shoe length in millimeters. Note that specific models, particularly Converse Chuck Taylor and Chuck 70, might deviate from these standard sizes due to their unique designs.
| Shoe Length (MM) | Vans | Nike | Adidas | Converse (Chuck Taylor/Chuck 70) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s US Sizes | ||||
| 270 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
| 280 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9.5 |
| 290 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10.5 |
| Women’s US Sizes | ||||
| 230 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6 | 5.5 |
| 240 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7 | 6.5 |
| 250 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 8 | 7.5 |
How Should Vans Fit?
Designed for skateboarding, Vans are meant to fit snugly, providing secure foot lockdown for quick movements. However, they should still offer adequate toe space without pinching. Performance-oriented lines like Vans Old Skool and Sk8-Hi tend to fit tighter and might require ordering a half size up. Vans Slip-On, with their elasticized straps, may feel initially tight across the top but are designed to stretch with wear.
Breaking in Vans
While Vans won’t significantly change in size over time, the materials will soften, improving comfort. To expedite the break-in process:
- Wear thick socks or double layer regular socks with your new Vans for a couple of hours daily around the house for the first few days.
- Periodically bend the shoes in the forefoot area to enhance the flexibility of the vulcanized rubber soles.
Avoid prolonged outdoor wear initially to prevent heel blisters.
Vans and Wide Feet
Vans’ traditional moccasin-inspired design with a slightly pointed toe may not be ideal for wide feet. Fortunately, popular models like Old Skool and Slip-On are available in wide width options.
Finding Your Perfect Vans Size
If you can’t measure your feet, utilize a shoe size conversion tool, inputting the size of a well-fitting shoe from another brand to determine your corresponding Vans size. Always consult specific model reviews and size charts for the most accurate fit information. Understanding the nuances of Vans sizing, particularly in relation to brands like Adidas, will ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs.
